Tax spreadsheet and allowable expenses for Tilers (UK sole traders)

These are common examples. A cost is allowable only if it is wholly and exclusively for your business, so check GOV.UK guidance on expenses if you are self-employed, or ask an accountant.

• Cutters and tools may be allowable
• Materials may be allowable
• Van or mileage may be allowable
• Insurance may be allowable
• Protective wear may be allowable
• Skip or waste costs may be allowable

• Not keeping tile and adhesive receipts with the job they relate to.
• Leaving skip or waste receipts apart from job paperwork.
• Mixing business and personal van use in one record.
• Using both simplified mileage and actual vehicle costs for the same vehicle.

• Materials invoices and receipts for each tiling job.
• Skip or waste receipts linked to the relevant job.
• Job sheets and client invoices.
• Mileage log with date, destination, purpose and distance.

Keep receipts, invoices and mileage details as you work, and record business and personal use separately where needed. Organised records make it easier to prepare your Self Assessment return.