HMRC publishes the most outlandish personal expense claims found on tax returns

With only a week until the deadline for 2014-15 self-assessment tax returns, HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) has leaked five of the most outrageous personal expenses claims included in last year’s tax returns.

In a bid to make people think twice about trying – and failing – to claim for spurious personal expenses, the list includes such ‘expenses’ as a second-hand car to avoid walking to work, the costs for storing Mars Bars overnight in a fridge to charges for intimate waxing!

The full list of the five most bizarre personal expenses taxpayers have attempted to claim for is:

• “The cost of a pair of flip-flops so I don’t have to walk barefoot between my work’s changing and shower rooms”

• “The costs for my intimate waxing”

• “The costs for storing Mars Bars overnight in a fridge”

• “I bought a second-hand car to get me home from work so I didn’t have to walk”

• “I purchased my own flat, so I need to claim back the money I spent on the furniture”

Ruth Owen, director-general of personal tax, HMRC, has warned taxpayers that there’s only one week left to submit online tax returns for the 2014-15 financial year; with instant £100 late filing penalties for those who miss the deadline.

“There are a number of items and expenses that people can claim against, such as genuine business costs and items needed to do a job,” said Owen.

“But a painful beauty regime or the furniture of your own home are not items that every taxpayer in the country should be contributing towards.

“It’s wrong that a small minority of people expect the honest majority to subsidise their lifestyle and HMRC will never allow for these to be processed as genuine claims.

“With one week to go until the 31^st January deadline it’s best to complete your tax return sooner rather than later.

“Our online service is quick and simple to use, with lots of helpful information – completing your tax return is easier than you think.”

For any last-minute advice and support completing your 2014-15 self-assessment tax return ahead of the deadline, please don’t hesitate to arrange a free initial consultation with your local TaxAssist Accountant using our online enquiry form or by calling our friendly team today on 0800 0523 555.





Image: Casey Florig

Date published 24 Jan 2016 | Last updated 24 Jan 2016