Guides

What UK tradespeople can claim

Short, practical answers on the costs sole traders ask about most. Start with the full guide to claiming expenses, or pick a topic.

• Can I claim tools on my tax return if I'm self-employed?

  Short answer: yes, tools bought for your trade are an allowable business cost. The only real question is whether it goes down as a running cost or as equipment.

  4 min read

• Van, fuel and mileage: what can a self-employed tradesperson claim?

  You can either claim the business share of your actual van costs, or use HMRC's flat mileage rate. You cannot mix the two for the same vehicle.

  5 min read

• Work boots, hi-vis and workwear: what's claimable?

  Protective clothing and branded workwear are allowable. Ordinary clothing is not — the test is whether it is genuinely protective or a uniform, not whether you only wear it for work.

  3 min read

• Working from home as a sole trader: what you can claim

  Even if the work happens on site, the paperwork happens at home. You can claim either a flat rate based on hours, or a fair proportion of your household running costs.

  4 min read

• How long do I need to keep receipts as a UK sole trader?

  Keep business records for at least five years after the 31 January submission deadline for the relevant tax year. Digital copies are accepted, so a clear photo is enough.

  4 min read