If you’re a UK-based HGV or transport worker, you could be entitled to claim a HGV driver tax rebate worth hundreds, sometimes even thousands, of pounds. Whether you’re paying out for tools, accommodation, or meals while on the road, many of these work-related expenses are reclaimable. But with HMRC’s tax rules constantly evolving, it can be hard to know what’s allowable and what’s not.
This guide breaks down everything HGV drivers can claim, based on the latest HMRC guidance, plus how Swift Refunds can help you claim safely, quickly, and with total peace of mind.
Table of Contents
What Is a HGV Driver Tax Rebate?
A HGV driver tax rebate is a refund of overpaid tax due to eligible work-related expenses that haven’t been claimed through PAYE. If you pay for items or services essential for your job and aren’t reimbursed by your employer, HMRC may allow you to claim them as tax-deductible.
You can backdate claims up to 4 tax years (back to 2021), potentially reclaiming thousands in overpaid tax.
Claimable Expenses for HGV Drivers
HMRC allows you to claim expenses that are “wholly, exclusively and necessarily” incurred in the performance of your duties. Below is a full breakdown of common expenses HGV drivers can claim for:Tools & Equipment
If you’ve bought essential tools or equipment to do your job (e.g. ratchet straps, work gloves, or tool kits), these are usually allowable.Uniform & Laundry
Uniform costs can be claimed if they include branded clothing or protective wear (e.g. hi-vis jackets, steel-toe boots). You can also claim for laundry if you wash your workwear at home. Most HGV drivers qualify for £60 per year for uniform-related expenses (or more, depending on your trade group).Licences & Training
You may be able to claim the cost of renewing your LGV licence or Driver CPC (Certificate of Professional Competence) licence and other professional certifications if they’re essential for your current job.Travel & Mileage
Fuel costs for work-related journeys (excluding commuting) are allowable, but only if you are covering the costs yourself. You can either claim actual fuel receipts or use HMRC’s mileage rates:- • 45p per mile for the first 10,000 miles
- • 25p per mile thereafter
Food & Subsistence
If you’re working away from your normal base, you can claim meals and drinks under subsistence allowances. This includes:
- • Breakfast if you leave before 6am
- • Lunch and dinner when working extended shifts
- • Overnight food and drink while staying away
Accommodation Costs
If your job requires overnight stays, hotel or B&B costs are often reclaimable, as long as they’re not reimbursed by your employer.
Medical Costs
HMRC allows you to claim for eye tests and prescription safety glasses if they’re required for your driving duties.
Tachograph Cards & Digital Driver Cards
Renewing a digital tachograph card? That’s a reclaimable cost too, according to section 336 ITEPA 2003, the HMRC recognises this as an allowable expense.
How Much Can You Claim?
Know that you have an idea of what you can claim for, it’s good to know how much you could claim each year. This can be a hard question to answer, and the answer is that it can vary from year to year. HMRC are constantly changing their rules and requirements for tax rebates. It’s important to keep a close eye on the official Government website to spot any major changes.
As a rule of thumb, don’t overspend in hopes of reducing taxes; only purchase what is necessary in order to carry out your job as an HGV driver, otherwise HMRC could recall your claim and investigate.
How to Claim a HGV Driver Tax Refund
You can submit your claim through HMRC yourself, or save time (and stress) by letting a specialist like us handle the process for you.
DIY Route via HMRC:
- 1. Register for a personal tax account (if you haven’t already)
- 2. Gather receipts, logbooks, and documentation
- 3. Submit your self-assessment return online
- 4. Wait up to 12 weeks for a response from HMRC
With Swift Refunds:
- • Check your eligibility in minutes online
- • Upload your expenses and job details
- • Let Swift Refunds handle the claim, including all the tricky HMRC rules
- • Get your refund swiftly and securely
Another benefit of opting to work with expert tax rebate accountants at Swift Refunds is our Swift Guarantee. If HMRC ever disputes your refund, and you’ve provided accurate info, Swift Refunds will repay the amount on your behalf.
FAQs
How far back can I claim tax rebates as an HGV driver?
You can claim for up to 4 tax years, even if you’ve never submitted a claim before.
Can I claim if I’m paid through PAYE?
Yes, if you pay for expenses out-of-pocket and aren’t reimbursed, you can still claim a HGV driver tax rebate, even if you’re employed.
Are self-employed drivers eligible?
Absolutely. But the process differs slightly. Self-employed workers deduct expenses through their tax return rather than claiming a rebate. Swift Refunds can help either way.
Do I need receipts to make a HGV driver tax refund?
Not always. HMRC accepts flat-rate allowances for items like laundry and mileage. But for most other costs, receipts are advised to strengthen your case.
Why Use Swift Refunds When Submitting a HGV Driver Tax Rebate?
Tax rebates don’t need to be taxing. Whether you’re a logistics coordinator, a multi-drop courier, or a long-haul HGV driver, Swift Refunds helps you:
✔ Claim back what you’re owed
✔ Stay compliant with HMRC rules
✔ Avoid penalties and overclaims
✔ Maximise your refund with minimal stress
