Sole Trader Expenses Guide – Chester

Knowing which business expenses you can claim helps you submit an accurate Self-Assessment and reduce your tax bill. Here’s a guide from our Chester accountants to the main allowable expenses for sole traders and self-employed businesses:

1. Office, Premises & Equipment

• Business Premises: Rent, business rates, utilities, and property insurance for your workspace.

• Working from Home: Claim either HMRC’s simplified flat rate or a share of actual home bills (internet, utilities, council tax) based on business use.

• Office Supplies: Stationery, postage, printer ink, and software subscriptions.

• Technology & Equipment: Computers, software, phones, and business-essential equipment.

2. Travel & Accommodation

• Vehicle Expenses: Choose either the mileage allowance (45p/mile for first 10,000 miles) or claim actual running costs (fuel, insurance, repairs).

• Business Travel: Costs for trains, buses, planes, and taxis for business trips.

• Accommodation: Hotels and necessary meal costs for overnight business stays.

3. Staff & Training

• Staff Costs: Salaries, employer’s National Insurance, and staff benefits.

• Training & Development: Costs for work-related courses and professional development.

4. Marketing & Professional Fees

• Marketing & Advertising: Online ads, print marketing, website costs, and promotional spend.

• Professional Fees: Accountant, solicitor, or advisor fees for business services.

5. Business Overheads & Subscriptions

• Stock & Materials: Goods you sell or raw materials you use.

• Business Insurance: Premiums for policies (public liability, professional indemnity, etc.).

• Subscriptions: Memberships for professional bodies or trade publications.

Optional add-on for engagement/SEO:
Not sure what you can claim for your business? [Contact our Chester team for tailored advice.]