Millions of workers could claim money back under little-known HMRC scheme - check now

Millions of workers could claim money back under little-known HMRC scheme - check nowMillions of uniformed workers are unaware they can claim money back for washing and maintaining their work clothes through HMRC tax reliefCommentsMoneyEllie Clibbens15:07, 15 Apr 2026View 3 ImagesUniformed workers could claim back on repairing and washing their clothes(Image: Getty Images)Workers in uniform could be missing out on as much as £142 million in unclaimed tax relief from this year alone. HMRC provides those required to wash, maintain, or repair uniforms or tools needed for their jobs with tax relief, either as a flat-rate expense or the actual cost if supported by receipts.‌A uniform is defined as clothing that identifies you as belonging to a particular profession, such as a nurse or police officer. Claims may also be possible for specialist clothing required for work, even if it doesn't identify you as having a specific occupation, for example overalls or safety boots.‌View 3 ImagesYou can claim back if your job requires specialist clothing(Image: Getty Images)‌The standard flat-rate expense allowance for uniform maintenance is £60, meaning a basic rate taxpayer applying for this would receive £12 tax relief annually. If the estimated 12 million UK workers who wear a uniform all claimed this amount, it would total up to £142m.Certain professionals are entitled to claim considerably more than this, and the amounts can also be rebated for four additional years. It covers any money spent on clothing or tools, from a regular wash to getting it professionally cleaned, to repairing or replacing items.A study commissioned by Utilita, surveying 1,000 workers who wear a recognisable uniform or protective clothing as part of their role, as part of its award-winning High5 campaign, revealed that 40% remain unaware of this scheme. Many had no idea they were eligible, while others were uncertain about how to submit a claim.‌A Utilita spokesperson said: "Even the smallest...