A P87 form is a document HMRC provides that allows employees to claim tax relief on work-related expenses. You’ve paid the costs out of your pocket while performing your job duties. It’s beneficial for employees who don’t complete self-assessment tax returns. It’s a simple way to recover costs your employer hasn’t reimbursed. And the best part? You can claim for up to 5 years of eligible expenses!
In this blog, we’ll cover everything you need to know about the P87 form—what it is, who can use it, how to fill it out, and precisely what expenses you can claim.
Let’s start!
Why is the P87 Form Important?
Many employees don’t realize they can claim tax relief for job-related expenses. The P87 form makes it easy to:
- Recover money spent on work-related items or travel
- Reduce the amount of tax you unnecessarily
- Get tax relief for up to 5 years of expenses
Completing a P87 can put valuable cash back into your bank account if you’re eligible. You can learn more about how to claim your Pension Tax Relief and maximize your savings in our detailed guide!
How to Fill Out a P87 Form __ Simple Steps to Follow
The P87 form allows you to claim tax relief from HMRC tax relief if you have incurred work-related expenses as an employee. Follow this detailed step-by-step guide to complete the process seamlessly.
Step 1: Gather Your Information
Before completing the form, ensure you have all the required details ready. This will make the process quicker and reduce errors.
- Personal Information: Full name, address, and National Insurance (NI) number.
- Employer Details: Employer’s address and PAYE reference number (you can find this on your payslip or P60).
- Expense Details: A clear list of the expenses, such as:
- Travel costs (public transport, mileage for work trips)
- Uniform or work clothing expenses
- Tools and equipment costs
- Professional fees or subscriptions
Keep receipts or records of your expenses, as HMRC may request proof.
Step 2: Complete the P87 Form
You can fill out the P87 form either online through the HMRC website or by downloading a paper version. Here is the breakdown of the key sections:
- Personal Details
- Enter your full name, address, date of birth, and NI number.
- Double-check these details to ensure accuracy.
- Employer and Job Details
- Provide your employer’s address and PAYE reference number.
- Include your job title and the period for which you’re claiming expenses.
- Expense Breakdown
This is the most critical section. Break down the expenses:
- Travel Expenses: Include mileage for work-related trips (not commuting) or public transport costs.
- Uniform and Clothing: If you are required to wear a uniform or protective clothing, you can claim to have it cleaned, repaired, or replaced.
- Tools and Equipment: List any tools or equipment explicitly for your job.
- Professional Fees & Subscriptions: Include memberships to professional bodies required for your role (e.g., unions or associations).
Note: HMRC allows claims up to £2,500 using the P87 form. For higher amounts, you’ll need to file a self-assessment tax return.
Step 3: Submit the Form
Once you have completed the form, you have two options to submit it:
- Online Submission:
- Log in to your Government Gateway account on the HMRC website.
- Upload the completed form and follow the on-screen instructions.
- Postal Submission:
- Download and print the paper version of the P87 form.
- Double-check all entries for accuracy.
- Post the completed form to:
- Pay As You Earn and Self Assessment, HM Revenue and Customs, BX9 1AS, United Kingdom
Tip: If you’re unsure about the process, a trusted tax accountant can help ensure the form is completed accurately and submitted correctly. Also, keep a copy of the form and any supporting documents for your records.
What Can I Claim Tax Back On?
The P87 form covers a range of work-related expenses. Here is the breakdown of the most common ones:
- Travel Expenses
If you travel for work (not including your regular commute), you can claim costs such as:
- Public transport fares (train, bus, etc.)
- Mileage for using your car (45p per mile for the first 10,000 miles)
- Parking fees and toll charges
     2. Uniforms and Work Clothing
If you wear a uniform or protective clothing for work, you can claim for:
- The cost of buying it (if your employer )
- Cleaning or repairing the clothing
Examples: Nurses, mechanics, or security guards who wear specific uniforms.
     3. Tools and Equipment
If you need tools, equipment, or other items to do your job, you can claim for the cost of purchasing or maintaining them.
    4. Professional Fees and Subscriptions
If you pay for membership to a professional body necessary for your job, you can claim tax relief on these fees or payroll. Examples include:
- Union memberships
- Subscriptions to trade bodies or regulatory groups
    5. Working From Home Expenses
If you work from home (even partially), you can claim tax relief for:
- Utility costs (heating, electricity, etc.)
- Internet and phone bills
| Expense Type | What You Can Claim |
| Travel Expenses | Mileage, fares, parking, tolls |
| Uniforms & Work Clothing | Buying, cleaning, or repairing work clothes |
| Tools & Equipment | Cost of tools, repairs, or replacements |
| Professional Subscriptions | Fees for job-related memberships |
| Working From Home Costs | Utility bills, internet, phone expenses |
How Long Does It Take to Process a P87 Claim?
After submitting your P87 form, HMRC usually processes it within 8-12 weeks. If your claim is approved, the tax relief will either:
- Be refunded to your bank account
- Be adjusted in your tax code to reduce future tax deductions
What Are the Deadlines for Claiming a P87 Tax Relief?
In the UK, you can claim tax relief through the P87 form for up to four tax years. This means you can claim for the periods ending on the 5th of April each year, starting from the most recent year and going back up to four years. If you need help with this, a small business accountant can guide you through the process and ensure you claim tax relief for any expenses from 6th April of the previous year.
What If I’ve Lost My Payslips or P76?
If you’ve lost or misplaced your payslips or P76 forms over time, don’t worry—there are several ways to retrieve this information:
- Contact Your Employers: Employers are legally required to keep records for 6 years. Under GDPR, they must provide this information if you request it.
- Log Into Your Government Gateway: Setting up a Government Gateway account is simple if you haven’t already.
Contact HMRC: You can call HMRC at 0300 200 3300 to request a tax history letter, which typically arrives within 10 working days and will cover the past 4 years.
Don’t miss out on the tax relief you’re entitled to. Let us assist you in filling out your P87 form and making sure you claim every penny!
Final Thoughts!
The P87 form is a simple yet powerful way to claim tax relief if you don’t spend your money on work-related expenses. From travel costs to tools and uniforms, every penny counts. And with up to 5 years of eligible expenses to claim, there’s a reason to leave money on the table.
Take control of your taxes today. Filling out a P87 might seem small, but it can make a big difference in your pocket. Start your claim and get back yours!At Quilliam Marr, we have a dedicated team ready to assist you in filling out your forms and ensuring you claim every penny. Let us handle the paperwork while you focus on what matters!
