How to reclaim tax

As many as one in three people could be able to reclaim tax from the UK government. Many miss out on their tax relief, simply because they don’t know what they can claim for.

How you reclaim your tax overpayment differs, depending on the allowances that apply to your specific situation. It makes sense to find out a bit more before you start, so you save valuable time and don’t lose out on any applicable tax reliefs.

This guide helps you establish what you can claim for, the time limits and how to begin the reclaiming process.

Why can I reclaim tax?

If you are employed and pay tax you can sometimes overpay or underpay tax. You will be due a tax rebate if you have paid too much, and it can be reclaimed for up to a four year period: that is this present financial year and the three years previous. After that, you lose any rebate you may have been due.

You can reclaim tax for:

• Travel – Any travel  undertaken as part of your role.
• Uniform – Cleaning and maintenance of work uniform or safety garments.
• Tools and protective clothing – When bought for only work purposes.
• Professional fees – When you pay membership into professional bodies or a Trade Union.
• Leaving the UK – If you are planning to leave the UK, or have already settled elsewhere.
• Pension tax relief – As a higher rate taxpayer, you are allowed an extra 20% tax relief on your private pension contributions.
• Working from home – If you are contractually obliged to use your own home for work.

Is it legitimate to reclaim tax?

Absolutely. There is no need to worry about tax avoidance or whether you are exploiting a loophole here. You are permitted to claim a tax relief because you have not claimed in the past.

The tax office expects you to make a claim for what you are owed.

How do I start the reclaiming process?

What you are entitled to claim back decides how you make a claim. There are a variety of forms for different types of claim. Find out more how our tax services could help you today.