Tax Rebates for Police Officers: What You Can Claim

Police officers incur a range of work related costs, from federation subscriptions to maintaining their uniform and kit, and many are entitled to tax relief they have never claimed. If you serve, or have served, in the police, it is worth checking whether HMRC owes you, because a claim can usually cover several years at once. This guide explains what police officers can claim.

Why police officers are often owed a rebate

Policing involves costs you cover yourself, and HMRC allows tax relief on several of them. It does not apply that relief automatically, so unless you claim, the money stays with HMRC. Because the costs recur and you can backdate a claim by four tax years, the totals add up.

What police officers can claim

Federation and association subscriptions

Subscriptions to the Police Federation and other approved bodies relevant to your role generally qualify for tax relief where you pay them yourself. This is one of the most commonly missed claims. See our guide to professional fees and union subscriptions.

Uniform and kit upkeep

Where you maintain your uniform or protective kit at your own expense, and it is not laundered or replaced for you, a flat rate allowance can apply. Police roles often have agreed flat rates for this. See our uniform tax rebate guide.

Travel and other costs

If you use your own vehicle for work travel that is not your normal commute and are not fully reimbursed at HMRC approved rates, you may be able to claim mileage relief. Other necessary costs may also qualify depending on your duties.

How much could a police officer claim?

You receive tax relief at your tax rate, 20 percent for basic rate or 40 percent for higher rate taxpayers. The figure depends on your subscriptions and upkeep costs, but combined across the current year plus four previous years, it is often a worthwhile claim.

How far back can I claim?

You can claim for the current tax year plus the previous four. The oldest year drops off each 5 April, so it pays to claim sooner rather than later.

How to claim your police tax rebate

You can claim directly from HMRC, or let TaxPro handle it. We confirm which of your subscriptions, uniform costs and travel qualify, claim every eligible year, and deal with HMRC on your behalf. We work on a no win, no fee basis, so a percentage fee only applies once your refund is secured.

Frequently asked questions

Can I claim tax back on Police Federation subscriptions?

Where you pay the subscription yourself and it is relevant to your role, it generally qualifies for tax relief.

Can I claim if I have left the police?

Yes, you can usually still claim for the years within the four year window even after leaving.

Do I need receipts?

For flat rate uniform and subscription claims, detailed receipts are often not needed, though records help. For actual costs, keep evidence.

How long does it take?

Once submitted, refunds usually come through in around 10 days, with the whole process often taking 8 to 10 weeks.

Police officers, check what you are owed

If you pay federation fees or maintain your own kit, there is a strong chance HMRC owes you.

Start your claim with TaxPro and we will work out everything you are entitled to, on a no win, no fee basis.

Related: browse all our tax rebates by job to find your trade.