On this page
In short
- Tools you bought and were not repaid for are claimable in full. Tool account statements are enough evidence.
- Motor mechanics' flat rate: £120 a year, covering work clothing and tools. Claim it or your actual costs, not both.
- PPE such as boots, gloves and eye protection is not claimable: your employer should provide it.
- Employed technicians only; self-employed tools go on a tax return.
Want the figures for your claim? See our mechanic tax rebate page, or check what you are owed in 60 seconds.
Tools first
Snap-on, Mac, Sealey: whatever the account, the statements show what you spent and when. Substantial tools and equipment you have to buy can be claimed at full cost through the annual investment allowance; smaller tools are claimed as you repair or replace them. Over £1,000 a year is normal for a technician.
Everything else
- Motor mechanics' flat rate: £120 a year, if you do not claim actual tool costs
- Mileage for recovery, parts runs or between branches in your own car
- IMI or similar professional registration where you pay it
Worked example
Jordan, £1,800 a year on tools, claimed at actual cost instead of the flat rate. £1,800 relief, £360 tax back a year, £1,440 over 4 years, £792 after fee.
Tool allowance from your employer?
Claim the amount you spent above it. Your specialist works out the difference from your statements.
Questions
No receipts.
Statements, bank records or supplier order history are all accepted.
Toolbox bought 5 years ago?
Outside the 4-year window. Tools bought since can be claimed.
This guide is general information, not advice about your circumstances. Figures use HMRC rates for the 2026 to 2027 tax year. We are a paid tax agent and not HMRC.
Am I owed a tax rebate? The PAYE guide
Work mileage tax rebate
Tax refund scams: spot a fake