If you’re a telecoms engineer working across multiple sites in the UK, you could be entitled to claim back hundreds, sometimes even thousands, of pounds each year in overpaid tax. From essential tools to travel and meal costs, HMRC allows workers like you to claim back expenses, but only if you know what qualifies.
In this guide, we’ll explain exactly what equipment and tool expenses telecoms engineers can claim as part of a telecoms tax return, clarify the difference between commuting and temporary workplaces, and share expert tips to help you avoid costly mistakes.
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What Counts as a Temporary Workplace?
A temporary workplace is a site where you work for less than 24 months, or where your attendance is not part of a regular commute. So, for example, driving to a new installation site for a few weeks is claimable in a telecoms tax return; however, commuting daily to your permanent depot or office is not.
If your job involves regular travel between client locations or short-term projects, then travel to those sites is considered allowable, and you can claim mileage, fuel, parking, and more.
Claimable Travel Expenses for Telecoms Engineers
If you’re driving your own vehicle for work (excluding your normal commute), you can claim travel costs at HMRC’s approved mileage rates:
- • 45p per mile for the first 10,000 miles
- • 25p per mile thereafter
Other claimable travel costs include:
- • Public transport (train, bus, etc.)
- • Parking fees
- • Tolls and congestion charges
- • Business-related taxi fares
Expert Tip: Always record your mileage and keep travel receipts, as HMRC may request evidence later.
Subsistence Expenses: Meals, Accommodation & More
When your job takes you away from home overnight, or you’re required to work long hours off-site, you can claim subsistence expenses, including:- • Breakfasts if you leave before 6am (£5 allowance)
- • Evening meals, if you return after 8pm (£15 allowance)
- • Lunches during extended work away from your usual site
- • Hotel stays when working overnight (allowance depends on the location in the UK)
HMRC allows reasonable, necessary expenses that are wholly for business use. It’s important to note that lavish meals and alcohol are not covered.
Claiming Tools & Equipment as Expenses
As a telecoms engineer, you likely purchase or maintain specialist tools or equipment to do your job. If you’ve paid for these yourself, you may be eligible to claim them back.What You Can Claim:
- • Hand tools (screwdrivers, crimping tools, drills, etc.)
- • Protective equipment (hard hats, boots, gloves)
- • Uniforms (if branded or industry-specific)
- • Tool repairs or replacements
Be sure to keep receipts and records for all of your purchases; this not only strengthens your claim but ensures compliance if HMRC reviews your file.
How to Submit a Telecoms Tax Return
There are a few ways telecoms engineers can claim their allowable expenses:1. Self-Assessment Tax Return
If you’re self-employed or already registered for self-assessment, you can include your expenses when filing your tax return.2. P87 Form
For PAYE employees (those who are employed and taxed at source), you can claim using a P87 form, either online or by post.3. Let Swift Refunds Handle It
Claiming tax rebates can be time-consuming and confusing, especially when HMRC rules are involved. At Swift Refunds, we specialise in telecoms tax returns and take care of the entire process for you.And with The Swift Guarantee, if HMRC challenges your claim and you’ve provided accurate information, we’ll cover the cost, not you.
Let’s Maximise Your Telecoms Tax Return Today
Thousands of UK telecoms engineers are missing out on tax rebates they’re legally entitled to. Don’t leave money unclaimed! Check your eligibility in minutes with our fast, easy, and risk-free service. Get in touch with our friendly team today if you have any questions.
