What Expenses Can I Claim as a Small Business in the UK

When you’re running a small business, every penny counts. Claiming the right expenses can reduce your tax bill, boost your profit, and give you more financial breathing space. But what counts as a “business expense” — and what doesn’t?

At Zenith Bookkeeping, we’ve helped hundreds of small business owners across the UK get clarity on their costs. Here’s a quick guide to help you confidently claim what’s yours.

1. Office and Home Working Costs

You can claim for:

• Office rent or shared co-working spaces

• Utilities (a portion, if you work from home)

• Business broadband and mobile phone use

• Office supplies (paper, pens, printer ink)

Tip: If you work from home, use HMRC’s simplified flat rate or calculate the actual proportion of use.

2. Travel Expenses

You can claim for:

• Business mileage (cars, vans, bikes)

• Train, bus, or taxi fares

• Parking fees (not fines!)

• Accommodation for overnight business trips

Tip: Keep a mileage log — apps like MileIQ can help automate this.

3. Marketing and Subscriptions

You can claim for:

• Business cards, flyers, and advertising

• Website costs (domain, hosting, web design)

• Social media ads and consultants

• Relevant software (Xero, Canva, Microsoft 365)

4. Professional Services

You can claim for:

• Accountant or bookkeeper fees

• Legal or business advice

• Business coaching and training courses

5. Staff and Payroll Costs

You can claim for:

• Employee wages

• Employer NI contributions

• Staff uniforms or PPE

• Subcontractor fees (registered properly)

6. Equipment and Assets

You can claim for:

• Computers, laptops, and tablets

• Furniture used in your office

• Tools and machinery (depending on your trade)

Tip: Large purchases may need to be claimed as capital allowances — your bookkeeper can help with this.

🚫 What You Can’t Claim

• Personal items (even if used “a bit” for work)

• Client entertainment (e.g. meals out — sorry!)

• Daily commutes to a regular workplace

• Fines and penalties

✅ Final Thoughts

Staying on top of your allowable expenses can lead to serious savings — and it doesn’t have to be complicated.

Need help tracking or categorising your expenses?
📩 Get in touch with Zenith Bookkeeping for friendly, expert advice that keeps your finances on track and your taxes stress-free.