Tuff Shop Help Center | Uniform Tax Relief & VAT Reclaims on Work Clothes

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Uniform Tax Relief & VAT Reclaims on Work Clothes

HMRC allows businesses to reclaim VAT on workwear that is branded with permanent logos (e.g., via embroidery or heat-seal badges) and used exclusively for work purposes.

Additionally, employees who maintain their own uniforms can claim tax relief

If you wear a uniform or specialist workwear as part of your job, you may be eligible for uniform tax relief to help cover the cost of washing, repairing, or replacing your work clothing.

This guide explains what uniform tax relief is, how to qualify, and how to claim it.

What is Uniform Tax Relief?

Uniform tax relief is a scheme offered by HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) that allows workers to claim tax relief on the cost of maintaining their work uniform. This includes washing, repairing, or replacing eligible work clothing.

Who Qualifies for Uniform Tax Relief?

You may qualify for uniform tax relief if:

✅ You wear a uniform or specialist workwear required for your job.

✅ Your employer does not reimburse you for laundry or maintenance costs.

✅ You personally cover the cost of washing, repairing, or replacing your uniform.

✅ Your uniform is clearly associated with your job (e.g., branded workwear, PPE, or industry-specific clothing).

You cannot claim tax relief if:

❌ You wear generic clothing, even if required for work (e.g., a plain shirt and trousers).

❌ Your employer provides laundry or reimburses costs.

❌ You only purchase the uniform but do not maintain it yourself.

What Counts as a Uniform or Workwear?

✔ Branded work uniforms – Clothing with a company logo or specific design.

✔ Protective clothing – Items like high-visibility jackets, safety boots, or gloves.

✔ Industry-specific uniforms – Nurses' scrubs, chefs' whites, or police uniforms.

How Much Can I Claim?

The standard tax relief for uniform maintenance is £60 per year for most industries, meaning basic rate taxpayers can receive £12 back per year (20% of £60).

Some industries have higher allowances, such as:

Nurses & paramedics – Up to £125 per year.

Construction & engineering – Varies by role.

You can check the exact amount for your profession on the HMRC website.

How Do I Claim Uniform Tax Relief?

You can apply directly through HMRC:

For first-time claims:

📌 Online via the HMRC Government Gateway: Apply Here

📌 By post using the P87 form (for claims under £2,500).

For ongoing claims: If your circumstances remain the same, HMRC may adjust your PAYE tax code so you receive relief automatically in future years.

Can I Claim for Previous Years?

Yes! You can backdate uniform tax relief claims for up to four tax years.

For example:

Current tax year: 2024/25

Earliest claimable year: 2020/21

If you haven’t claimed before, you could receive a lump sum rebate for past years.

Can I Reclaim VAT on Workwear Purchases?

VAT can only be reclaimed if:

✔ You are self-employed or a business owner purchasing workwear for employees.

✔ The clothing qualifies as essential workwear (e.g., safety gear or uniforms).

If you are an employee, you cannot reclaim VAT on workwear purchases unless your employer has a VAT arrangement for uniform reimbursement.

Does Tuffshop Provide VAT Receipts for Workwear?

Yes! We provide a VAT receipt with all purchases as standard.

If you need a VAT invoice for workwear purchased from Tuffshop, simply:

📧 Email us at [email protected]

📞 Call us at 0113 2887713

We can provide VAT invoices for eligible workwear purchases.

Where Can I Get More Information?

For official HMRC guidance and to submit a claim, visit:

🔗 Uniform Tax Relief – GOV.UK

For workwear purchases and VAT queries, contact Tuffshop Support.

📧 Email us at [email protected]

📞 Call us at 0113 2887713

The information above is correct as of 2025

Tuffshop are workwear specialists, not tax advisors.

This information is to be treated as a guide only.

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