18 May 2023
HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) is reminding workers that a claim for a refund on work-related expenses can be made directly through GOV.UK.
The Benefit of Direct Claims for Tax Refunds on Work Expenses
It has been reported that more than 800,000 taxpayers claimed refunds for work expenses during the tax year 2021/22. While the average claim was £125, over 70% of claimants missed out on getting the full amount they were due because they used an agent to make the claim instead of claiming directly with HMRC.
Direct Claims Through HMRC "Quick and Easy"
HMRC states that claiming a tax refund directly through HMRC’s online portal on GOV.UK is quick and easy and the only way to guarantee receiving 100% of the repayment.
Taxpayers Should Beware Unscrupulous Repayments Agents
Financial Secretary to The Treasury, Victoria Atkins, said:
"Nobody should miss out on the full claim of a tax rebate – and by going straight to HMRC people can avoid being left out of pocket because of unscrupulous repayments agents.
Thanks to our Spring Budget reforms if someone no longer wants an agent involved in their claim, they’ll be able to cancel it so any future rebates will go to the taxpayer in full."
HMRC's Jonathan Athow Advises Going Direct for the Best Results
HMRC’s Director General for Customer Strategy and Tax Design, Jonathan Athow, said:
‘‘Every penny counts and we want to make sure employed workers are getting what they deserve – their hard-earned cash straight back into their pockets. To make a claim just search ‘employee tax relief’ on GOV.UK. It is the quickest way of getting a tax refund on your work-related expenses and ensures you get 100% of the money back.”
How to Submit a Claim to the HMRC
Submitting a claim through HMRC’s online portal takes approximately 15 minutes. The online tool to check eligibility and a full list of work expenses applicable is also available.
Some work-related expenses include:
- uniforms and work clothing
- buying work-related equipment
- professional fees, union memberships and subscriptions
- using personal vehicle for work travel (excluding journey from home to work).
Government Gateway Account Required
Taxpayers who already have a government gateway account can follow the step-by-step guidance to submit a claim. Those who need to set an account up can do so via GOV.UK.
HMRC: Research a Repayment Agent Before Signing a Contract
HMRC encourages workers to conduct thorough research, before signing a contract with a repayment agent. In addition, the small print should be checked to ensure there is a clear understanding of what commission is being charged and how much tax refund is likely to be received back.
Find Out More About Making a Work-Related Expense Claim
Employees can find out more about how to make a work-related expense claim and what type of expense they can claim, here or by watching the YouTube video.
The full press release can be found here.
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