How Much Can I Claim for Laundry Expenses Self-Employed UK?

If you wear uniforms, protective clothing, or specialist work clothes necessary for your job, you can claim the cost of cleaning and maintaining these items. However, you cannot claim for ordinary clothes you wear to work (like a suit or casual clothes) as these do not count as deductible expenses.

Here’s how it works:

1. Work-Related Clothing: You can claim the cost of cleaning clothes that are considered necessary for your work (e.g., uniforms, protective gear, and overalls).

2. Ordinary Clothing: Clothes you wear for work that are also suitable for everyday wear (such as shirts, trousers, or shoes) are not deductible, even if you only wear them for work.

Calculating Laundry Expenses

• Actual Costs: You can claim the actual cost of washing, drying, and ironing your work-related clothing if you have receipts or detailed records of the cost.

• Simplified Expenses (Flat Rate): Alternatively, HMRC allows for a flat-rate deduction for uniform cleaning without the need for receipts. The flat-rate is typically applied to employees but can give you a guide on what may be reasonable if you are self-employed.

How to Record Laundry Expenses

If you choose to claim actual costs, you should:

• Keep all receipts related to laundry expenses.

• Maintain a log or records that show the proportion of laundry costs that relate to your work clothing.

Examples of Claimable Clothing Expenses

• Uniforms: If you wear a branded uniform or specific workwear with a company logo.

• Protective Clothing: This could include safety boots, gloves, helmets, or high-visibility clothing.

You cannot claim for personal or non-specialist clothing such as suits, even if they are worn for work purposes.

If you're unsure, it's always a good idea to check with Towerstone Accountants or directly with HMRC for clarification specific to your circumstances.