What If I'm Self-employed?
If you're self-employed, claiming is even easier. You simply include these costs as business expenses on your Self Assessment tax return. Look for the "professional fees and subscriptions" section when filling in your return.
Make sure you only claim for the business portion if your membership has any personal use too. Always claim in the correct tax year, when you actually paid the fee, not when the membership period runs.
Record Keeping and Receipts: What You Need to Know
When it comes to claiming tax relief on your professional membership fees, good record keeping is your best friend. To make sure you get every penny you’re owed, you’ll need to keep clear and accurate records of all professional fees and subscriptions paid to recognised professional bodies and organisations.
Start by saving receipts for every annual subscription, membership fee, or professional fee you pay, whether it’s for a British Association, British Society, or any other HMRC-recognised professional organisation. Make sure your receipts show the date, amount paid, and the name of the professional body or institute.
It’s also a good idea to keep a simple log or spreadsheet listing each payment, the relevant tax year, and the organisation. Don’t forget to note your national insurance number, as you’ll need it when you claim tax relief, whether you’re using a tax return, claiming online, or updating your PAYE tax code.
Remember, you can claim tax relief for the current tax year and for up to four years back, so hang on to your receipts and records for at least that long.
