What Is a P87? Claiming Tax Relief on Work Expenses

If you have paid for things you need for your job, such as a uniform, tools, professional fees or work mileage, the P87 is the form that lets employed taxpayers claim tax relief on those costs. This guide explains what a P87 is, when to use it, and how to claim.

What is a P87?

A P87 is the HMRC form used to claim income tax relief on allowable employment expenses when you are taxed through PAYE and do not complete a Self Assessment tax return. It tells HMRC what you have spent on work essentials so they can give you the tax relief you are owed, either as a refund or through an adjusted tax code.

When you can use a P87

You can use a P87 if all of the following apply: you are employed and pay tax through PAYE, you have paid for allowable work expenses yourself, and your employer has not reimbursed you in full. Common P87 claims include the uniform maintenance allowance, work mileage, tools and professional fees and subscriptions.

If you already complete a Self Assessment return, you claim these expenses on the return instead of using a P87.

How to submit a P87

There are three main routes. You can claim online through your Personal Tax Account using your Government Gateway login, you can complete HMRC’s standard P87 form and post it, or, if you have claimed before and nothing has changed, you may be able to confirm by phone. The standard postal form must be used rather than a homemade version.

How far back can you claim?

You can claim for the current tax year plus the previous four tax years. The oldest year drops off each 5 April, so claiming sooner protects an extra year of relief.

Do it yourself or let TaxPro handle it

You can submit a P87 yourself for free, or let TaxPro do the work. We check every expense you are entitled to, make sure you claim each eligible year, and deal with HMRC for you, on a no win, no fee basis. Not sure how much you could be owed? Try our tax rebate calculator.

Frequently asked questions

Is the P87 free to submit?

Yes. Claiming directly from HMRC with a P87 is free. A fee only applies if you choose to use a service like TaxPro to handle it for you.

Can I claim with a P87 if I do Self Assessment?

No. If you complete a Self Assessment return, you claim employment expenses on the return instead of using a P87.

How long does a P87 claim take?

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

Do I need receipts for a P87?

For flat rate claims such as uniform upkeep, often not. For actual costs and mileage, keep your records in case HMRC asks.

Claim the tax relief you are owed

If you pay for work essentials yourself, a P87 could put money back in your pocket across several years.

Start your claim with TaxPro and we will handle the P87 for you, on a no win, no fee basis.