HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) are encouraging tax payers who have work related expenses to claim qualifying tax reliefs directly with HMRC and for free rather than go via expensive reclaim agents.
Don’t get caught out by online adverts and tax refund companies who offer to make work expense claims for you so they can claim a commission.
Recognise the signs of bad advice
They warn that – If someone promises easy money and it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
Handing over personal information could mean you end up having to pay back the full amount of any invalid tax refund claim made on your behalf, including any commission an agent has already taken.
Before using a tax refund company or tax agent for rebates, take your time and do some research.
If you choose to use an agent to represent you, you can read more information on GOV.UK about how to choose a tax agent.
Why not claim directly with HMRC
Many are found to be making claims the tax payer is not entitled to, and they only receive a small amount of the false relief reclaim, sometime receiving no payment.
If you do qualify – It’s free and simple to claim work expenses directly with HMRC.
You won’t have to pay any agent fees or commission if you do it yourself.
For most expense claims, apart from ‘uniform, work clothing and tools’ expenses, you will need to provide evidence to support your claim by post to HMRC.
You can’t claim for any expenses that your employer has already reimbursed
The evidence will vary depending on the expense type you are claiming. It’s quick and easy to check what evidence is required using the HMRC eligibility checker page.
Check
Find out what you can – and can’t – claim for.
It doesn’t take long to check and could save you a lot of time and money later on – so always check your eligibility before you make a claim.
Recognise
Spot the signs of bad tax advice.
Claim
Claim with HMRC directly.
PAYadvice.UK 24/6/2925