Summer Business Survival Series: Week 3 – "Can I Put That Through the Business?"

Claiming Business Expenses Without the Guesswork

If we had a pound for every time someone asked us, "Can I claim for this?", we'd probably have enough to take the whole office out for lunch! Whether you're a builder, electrician, hairdresser, consultant or run your own small business, it's only natural to want to make sure you're claiming everything you're entitled to. But it's equally important not to claim for things that aren't allowable. The truth is, every situation is different and tax rules often depend on how something is used, not simply what it is.

Here are some of the questions we hear most often:

☕ "Can I claim for my coffee?"

If it's your morning coffee on the way to work, usually not. But if you're travelling for business or meeting a client, the answer may be different.

🥾 "What about my work boots?"

Protective clothing and safety equipment required for your work are often treated differently from everyday clothing, even if you only wear it for work.

🚐 "Can I put my van through the business?"

In many cases, yes—but how it's owned, financed and used can affect the tax treatment. It's worth getting advice before making a purchase.

📱 "What about my mobile phone?"

If it's used for business, you may be able to claim some or all of the costs, depending on your circumstances and how the phone is provided.

🛠️ "Can I claim for my tools?"

Tools and equipment are commonly allowable business expenses, but the type of item and its cost may affect how tax relief is given.

💻 "I bought a laptop—does that count?"

If it's purchased for business use, there are often ways to claim tax relief, but again, the rules depend on how it's used.

🏡 "I work from home. Can I claim for that?"

Many self-employed people can claim some of the costs of working from home, but what's available depends on your circumstances and how you use your home for business.

The important thing to remember is that tax isn't always black and white. What is allowable for one person may not be for another because their circumstances are different. That's why advice from a friend, a Facebook group or someone down the pub isn't always the best guide. A five-minute conversation with your accountant could save you money—or stop you making an expensive mistake.

✅ Checklist 1: Before You Buy Something for Your Business

Ask yourself:

☐ Is this genuinely for my business?

☐ Will it be used only for business, or partly for personal use?

☐ Do I have a receipt or invoice?

☐ Is there a business reason for buying it?

☐ Would I be happy explaining the purchase if HMRC ever asked?

If you're unsure about any of the above, it's worth getting advice before you spend the money.

✅ Checklist 2: Questions to Ask Your Accountant

Keep a note of these for your next conversation:

☐ Can I claim for this expense?

☐ Is there a more tax-efficient way to buy it?

☐ Should I buy it personally or through the business?

☐ Are there any tax reliefs or allowances available?

☐ Is there anything I'm not currently claiming that I should be?

At our practice, we'd much rather answer a quick question before you make a decision than help fix a problem afterwards. There are very few questions we haven't been asked before, and there is never any such thing as a silly question.

So, the next time you find yourself wondering, "Can I put that through the business?", remember this...

Always ask before assuming.

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