Tax Rebates For Teachers

Teacher Tax Refund

What expenses can teachers claim for?

In general, allowable expenses are the unavoidable costs you have to pay for your work. For teachers, they'll tend to be things like:

• Professional subscription fees, for things like a teachers' union.
• Specialist clothing you buy yourself, like protective gear for science teachers.
• Books, as long as they're necessary for your teaching work.
• Travel costs, other than your normal commute to and from home. This generally applies to temporary workplaces of under 24 months.

Teacher Tax Refund

I am employed full time as a teacher but have additional income. Do I have to declare it?

If you get additional income you need to declare it using self-assessment. Examples could be:

• Payments for selling lesson plans through online markets such as the TES.
• Income from books you have written (whether self published or paid in royalties via a publisher).
• Software you have written and sold.
• Income from property rental or savings and investments.
• Income from any other sources such as your own online shop such as Etsy.

Get in touch if you need to check whether you should submit a self assessment tax return.

Sports Equipment

I have to buy sportswear and equipment. Can I get a tax refund on my spending?

If you're a sport or PE teacher, then some of your costs can qualify for a tax refund claim. In general, you can claim for the cleaning, repair or replacement of any kit or equipment that's necessary for your job. The same basic rules apply as for sport professionals, meaning eligible costs would include things like:

• Trainers, football boots or other specialised footwear.
• Tracksuits and other sportswear.
• Specialised sporting equipment, such as tennis rackets.

You can't claim tax relief for initially buying your clothing or equipment. Only repair, cleaning and replacement costs are covered by the rules. Also, general-purpose items like t-shirts and towels probably won't get you a refund, even if you use them for work. Only things used specifically and exclusively for your job will count.

Refer a friend

Extra cash for you and your mates

Help your mates get a tax refund - and get an extra £50 in your own pocket! At RIFT, we love it when happy clients tell their friends about us.

We love it so much that we reward you for doing it! We'll give you £50 for everyone you recommend (T&Cs apply) who claims with us, but we'll give you a bonus of an extra £150 if 5 people do.

That's £400 in your pocket as well as the warm glow you get from helping out your mates. Help your workmates out now and you'll both get some extra cash.