Teachers routinely spend their own money on professional subscriptions, classroom resources, and union fees — most of which qualify for tax relief. Many teachers do not realise they can claim, or assume the amount is too small to bother. But over a career, the savings add up considerably.
What can teachers claim tax relief on?
- Professional body fees: GTC (General Teaching Council) registration
- Union subscriptions: NEU, NASUWT, NAHT, etc. (HMRC maintains an approved list)
- Specialist clothing: lab coats, PE kit (if required and not suitable for everyday wear)
- Books and resources: educational materials you purchase for your teaching
- Working from home: £6/week flat rate if you regularly work from home (planning, marking)
What cannot be claimed?
- Normal commuting costs (home to school)
- General clothing (suits, smart shoes)
- Items your school reimburses you for
- Food and drink
How much is the relief worth?
Tax relief is given at your marginal rate. If you pay 20% tax and claim £400 in expenses, you save £80. If you pay 40% tax, the same claim saves £160. The expense reduces your taxable income — HMRC does not reimburse the full amount.
How to claim
- Online (form P87): if your claim is under £2,500 and you do not file Self-Assessment, use HMRC's online form
- Tax code adjustment: HMRC can adjust your tax code so relief is spread across the year (you get slightly more each month)
- Self-Assessment: if you file a return for other reasons, include the claim there
Claims can be backdated up to 4 years.
Supply teachers and tutors
If you work as a supply teacher through an agency (PAYE), the same rules apply as for permanent teachers. If you tutor privately as self-employed, you can deduct expenses directly from your income — see our self-employed tax guide.
See how it affects your pay
Use the income tax calculator to understand your current marginal rate — that is the rate at which your expense claims will save you money.