Flat Rate Expenses (Uniform): Who Qualifies and What You Get

This scheme allows certain employees to claim tax relief to help cover the cost of cleaning their work clothing.

👤Who it's for

This scheme is specifically designed for employees who are required by their employer to wear a uniform and must take that uniform home to wash it themselves. If your job requires specific clothing that you are responsible for cleaning, you may be eligible to claim this relief.

🎁What you get

You can receive tax relief on a flat rate amount intended to offset the cost of laundering your workwear. This relief is applied to a set amount, which is usually £60 per year. This provides a way to recover a portion of the money you spend on laundry supplies and electricity used for your work clothes.

💰What it costs you

There is no financial cost to using this scheme. To receive the benefit, you must complete and submit a P87 form. This process is used to notify the tax authorities of your expenses so they can adjust your tax position accordingly.

⚠️The catch to know

One important detail to keep in mind is that you do not have to claim for the current year only. If you have been washing your own uniform for several years but have not yet claimed for those expenses, you can backdate your claims for up to 4 years. This allows you to recover money from previous tax years that you might have otherwise missed.

📝How to apply

• Ensure you are an employee who is required to wash your own work uniform.
• Prepare to submit a claim using the official P87 form.
• Check the official portal for the most current guidance on how to submit your paperwork.
• Review your records to see if you have any unclaimed expenses from the last 4 years.

https://www.gov.uk/tax-relief-for-employees/uniforms-work-clothing-and-tools