If you work in construction under the Construction Industry Scheme (CIS), you could be missing out on hundreds of pounds in tax relief each year. HMRC allows you to claim back the cost of certain business expenses, helping you reduce your taxable income and increase your tax refund. At TikTax, we specialise in helping construction workers understand exactly what they can claim on tax and ensure every allowable expense is included in their CIS rebate.
Understanding What You Can Claim Back on Tax
When you’re self-employed or work under the CIS, you’re responsible for submitting your own tax return each year. The good news is that HMRC lets you claim tax relief on expenses that are wholly and exclusively for business purposes. These claims reduce your taxable income, which means you pay less tax and could even be due a refund.
Knowing what you can claim on tax can be confusing, especially if you’ve never filed a return before. TikTax makes the process simple by identifying every expense you’re entitled to include, ensuring nothing is missed.
Common Allowable Expenses for CIS Workers
There are many everyday costs that count as allowable expenses on your CIS tax return. Some of the most common include:
Travel and Vehicle Costs
If you travel between job sites, your travel expenses can often be claimed back. This includes mileage (at HMRC’s approved rates), parking, public transport, or van hire. You can’t claim for personal travel or your daily commute, but business-related trips are usually eligible.
Office Supplies and Equipment
Even if you work on-site most of the time, you may still use office supplies like stationery, printers, or laptops for admin and record keeping. These items are classed as business expenses and can be included in your tax return.
Work-Related Clothing
Specialist clothing such as steel-toe boots, hard hats, or protective gear is claimable. Everyday clothing, like jeans or t-shirts, isn’t, unless it’s branded with your business logo.
Professional Fees and Insurance
You can claim for professional services such as accountancy fees, bookkeeping, or financial advice. Business-related insurance policies, like public liability or tool insurance, are also allowable expenses.
Training and Subscriptions
Courses that keep your skills current or help you stay qualified, such as health and safety certifications or trade-related training, are usually tax-deductible. You can also claim for professional memberships and subscriptions related to your trade.
Specific CIS Allowable Expenses
For construction workers, there are a few extra costs you can claim on your CIS tax return that are often overlooked. These include:
Tools and Protective Equipment
Whether you’ve bought new tools or replaced worn-out gear, these costs are claimable. You can also include the cost of maintaining or repairing them.
Travel to Job Sites
If you regularly move between sites or travel to temporary work locations, the associated travel costs can be added to your claim.
Accountancy Fees
Many CIS workers choose professional help to manage their returns. The cost of hiring an accountant, like TikTax, is itself an allowable expense.
Equipment Hire
Hiring heavy machinery or specialist equipment for a project? These expenses can be claimed back through your tax return.
Training or Certification Costs
Any training or certification required to carry out your work, such as CSCS cards or safety training, can be included as an expense.
How to Claim Tax Relief on Your CIS Return
To claim these expenses, you’ll need to file a Self-Assessment tax return with HMRC, detailing your income and allowable costs. It’s important to keep receipts, invoices, and records of all business expenses throughout the year. Missing or incomplete records could mean you lose out on money you’re owed.
TikTax takes care of everything, from gathering your information to submitting your claim accurately and on time. We know exactly what you can claim for on your CIS tax return and how to make the process stress-free.
Why Choose TikTax to Handle Your CIS Rebate
We’ve helped thousands of construction workers claim back tax quickly and correctly. Our CIS rebate experts know the rules inside out and make sure your claim includes everything you’re entitled to.
Fast and accurate CIS rebate claims
No upfront fees – you only pay once your refund is approved
Dedicated support throughout the process
If you’re unsure what you can claim on your tax, or you want to maximise your refund, we’re here to help.
Claim Your CIS Tax Refund Today
Don’t leave money unclaimed. Let TikTax handle your tax return and make sure you get every penny you deserve.
Start your claim today with our simple online form or contact our friendly team to find out how much you could get back.