HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) has warned employees working remotely to ensure full compliance when claiming tax relief for work-related expenses. The guidance, issued in February 2026, aims to prevent individuals from making ineligible claims and falling victim to commission-seeking third parties.
With more workers operating from home, HMRC has outlined precise criteria for tax relief and stressed the importance of making claims directly to maintain the accuracy and value of refunds.
HMRC urges caution for home working tax relief
HMRC highlighted its concerns through an official post on X (formerly Twitter), urging individuals considering a claim for work-from-home expenses to review their eligibility before submitting claims.
The department stated: “Take a closer look and check if you’re eligible before making a claim directly with HMRC. Find out more about what to watch out for.” Staff reminded employees that only specific costs are eligible, such as expenses for business phone calls and a proportion of home energy bills directly related to work.
Under current UK tax laws, workers can claim tax relief either as a flat weekly amount or based on the actual additional expenses incurred, with evidence required for higher claims.
Claims can be submitted for the current year and up to four previous years, potentially allowing workers to recover funds owed from earlier periods.
Eligibility rules for claiming work expenses
Eligibility for work-from-home expense relief is strictly defined. Taxpayers may claim tax relief if their employment arrangement formally requires remote work and if their employer does not reimburse the relevant expenses.
Claims can be made either using the standard HMRC £6-per-week flat rate or for actual costs incurred, substantiated by records such as bills and receipts. Tax relief is provided at the claimant’s highest marginal income tax rate.
For example, a basic-rate taxpayer receiving tax relief on £6 per week would receive £1.20 per week in tax savings.
However, HMRC warns that not all expenses are eligible and stresses that only costs wholly and exclusively incurred for work purposes should be claimed.
Risks of using third-party agents
HMRC’s official guidance cautions against employing online agents or companies that offer to make expense claims for a commission. The government emphasises: “Do not get caught out by online adverts and tax refund companies who offer to make work expense claims for you so they can claim a commission.
If it turns out you are not eligible to claim, you are still responsible for any claims made on your behalf.” Workers are strongly advised to submit claims directly through the GOV.UK website, which is free to use and avoids unnecessary commission fees. HMRC notes that some companies may seek payment upfront or a share of the relief, adding unnecessary financial risk.
Categories of claimable work expenses
Taxpayers who meet HMRC’s conditions may be able to claim relief for a range of employment-related expenses beyond remote work. These include the cost of uniforms, work-specific clothing and tools, vehicles used for business (excluding commuting), professional fees, subscriptions, business travel and subsistence, overnight expenses, and purchases of equipment essential for work duties.
Only expenses not already reimbursed by the employer and required strictly for work purposes are eligible for tax relief. HMRC reminds claimants that claims must be supported by appropriate evidence when necessary, particularly for amounts above the flat-rate allowance.
Steps to claim directly with HMRC
According to HMRC, it is “fast, free and simple” for individuals to claim work-related expenses directly via the official GOV.UK platform. The process requires claimants to provide necessary documentation, such as bills or receipts, depending on the expense.
An eligibility checker is available online to assist taxpayers in determining whether they qualify. For most claims under £2,500, those not using Self Assessment can complete a straightforward digital claim. Larger or more complex claims may require additional steps or a Self Assessment return.
Final Summary
HMRC’s latest warning seeks to protect employees and taxpayers from inadvertent errors or exploitation when claiming tax relief for job-related expenses.
The clear advice is for all eligible workers particularly those working from home to confirm their eligibility, gather appropriate evidence, and use the official government service to submit claims.
This approach avoids extra costs, ensures compliance, and protects individuals from potential liabilities. For additional clarity on tax rules and personal finance management, users may find further insight and tools in the Pie app.
