Deductible business expenses can be claimed on your tax return, reducing the amount of taxable income and, consequently, your tax liability.
Many businesses fail to maximise their expense claims and end up paying more tax than they need to, with small businesses most likely to overpay their tax bills.
But what qualifies as a deductible expense? Let’s delve into the top deductible business expenses you should know when filing your tax returns so you’re not missing out on valuable savings.
The significance of deductible expenses
Essentially, deductible expenses are costs businesses can subtract from their total income when calculating their taxable profit.
Remember, the key is that the expenses must be incurred wholly and exclusively for the purposes of the business, and you’ll need to maintain proper documentation to support the deductions.
Let’s explore the top deductible business expenses recognised by HMRC.
1. Office supplies and stationery
Office supplies and stationery expenses are a fundamental part of running a business. HMRC recognises these costs as deductible expenses.
This category includes expenses related to purchasing pens, paper, notebooks, printer ink, and other essential supplies used for business operations.
Keeping meticulous records of these expenses is crucial to claim them as deductions on your tax return.
2. Travel expenses
Business travel is often necessary, whether meeting clients, attending conferences, or visiting suppliers. HMRC allows businesses to deduct expenses related to travel, including:
- Transportation: This encompasses costs associated with train tickets, flights, taxis, and even mileage if using a personal vehicle for business travel. Detailed records of travel expenses, including receipts and mileage logs, are essential for accurate deductions.
- Accommodation: If business trips require overnight stays, accommodation expenses can be deductible. This includes hotel bills and related costs.
- Meals: While business-related meal expenses are deductible, HMRC has specific rules regarding the types of meals that qualify. Generally, meals during business travel or when entertaining clients may be deductible.
3. Office rent and utilities
Renting office space and paying utility bills (such as electricity, heating, and water) are all essential business expenses.
HMRC acknowledges these costs as deductible, provided they are solely for business purposes. Keep records of rental agreements and utility bills to support your deductions.
It’s worth mentioning that if you’re working from home, a portion of your home utility expenses may also be deductible. HMRC provides guidelines for calculating the business portion of these expenses based on the number of rooms used for business and the amount of time they’re used for business purposes.
4. Employee salaries and benefits
Salaries and benefits paid to employees represent a significant portion of business expenses for employers. HMRC recognises these expenses as deductible as long as they are reasonable and directly related to the business’s operations.
This includes salaries, bonuses, and contributions to employee benefits like pensions and health insurance.
5. Marketing and advertising
Investing in marketing and advertising is essential for business growth. HMRC permits businesses to deduct expenses incurred for advertising and marketing campaigns.
This includes costs associated with online advertising, print advertising, and promotional materials.
Costs associated with digital marketing are also deductible, including website development, maintenance costs, and fees paid to digital advertising platforms.
6. Business insurance
Insurance is a vital component of risk management for businesses. You can claim the cost of business insurance as an allowable expense on your tax return.
This includes general liability insurance, professional liability insurance, and property insurance.
7. Professional fees and subscriptions
Businesses often engage professionals for legal advice, accounting, and consultancy services. Most service fees you pay to professionals like solicitors, accountants, and consultants are classed as deductible expenses.
Additionally, fees for professional subscriptions and memberships in relevant organisations are also deductible.
8. Repairs and maintenance
Routine repairs and maintenance expenses related to business assets and property are deductible.
This includes costs associated with keeping machinery and facilities in good working condition. Landlords can also deduct many costs related to maintaining their properties.
Summing up
Understanding and leveraging deductible expenses is an effective way to reduce your tax bill transparently. In all of these cases, you’ll need to check your expenses against HMRC guidelines to ensure they comply.
Fairman Keable can effectively assist you in identifying deductible expenses to cut your tax bill and save you money. Contact us to find out more.