As a self-employed hairdresser, one of the best ways to lower your taxable income is by claiming tax-deductible expenses. But what can you actually claim? In this post, we’ll break down the key expenses that hairdressers can claim for tax purposes, helping you maximise your savings and keep your business finances in check.

Common Tax-Deductible Expenses for Hairdressers

1. Salon Equipment and Tools

   Hairdressers rely on a variety of equipment and tools to provide their services, from scissors to styling chairs. If you're self-employed or a salon owner, the cost of these tools is tax-deductible. This includes:

   • Scissors, combs, brushes, and hair dryers
   • Straighteners, curlers, and other styling tools
   • Salon furniture (chairs, mirrors, and more)

2. Product Purchases

   All the products you use to serve clients can be claimed as business expenses. This includes:

   • Shampoos, conditioners, and hair treatments
   • Braiding hair extensions
   • Hair colour and dye
   • Other styling products (mousse, hairspray, gels, etc.)

   If you're purchasing any products that you sell to clients as part of your service (e.g., shampoo, braiding hair, hair colour), these are also deductible.

3. Training and Education

   Hairdressers often need to invest in ongoing education to keep up with the latest trends and techniques. The costs associated with training and courses, including online classes, seminars, and certification programs, are tax-deductible.

4. Travel and Transport

   If you’re traveling for work, you can claim the cost of transport as an expense. This could include:

   • Travel to and from client appointments (if you're a mobile hairdresser)
   • Fuel costs, parking, and public transportation for business-related travel
   • Vehicle maintenance (if you use your car for business purposes)

   Make sure to keep records of your mileage and any related receipts.

5. Home Office and Rent

   If you work from home or rent a space to operate your business, you can claim a portion of your home office or rent expenses. Here’s how:

   • If you have a dedicated space at home (like a beauty room or small salon), you can claim a percentage of your rent, utilities, and council tax.
   • If you're renting a salon space, your rent and any associated utility costs can be claimed.

6. Marketing and Advertising

   Any costs associated with promoting your services are tax-deductible. This includes:

   • Website creation and maintenance
   • Social media advertising
   • Flyers, posters, and other printed marketing materials
   • Professional photography for social media or website use

7. Insurance

   Hairdressers need to be insured for various reasons, including public liability and professional indemnity insurance. These costs are fully deductible as business expenses.

8. Business Bank Account Fees

   If you have a business bank account, any fees associated with that account (monthly charges, overdraft fees, etc.) are tax-deductible. Keeping your personal and business finances separate is not only helpful for tax purposes but can also simplify your bookkeeping.

9. General Office Supplies

   Office supplies such as stationery, business cards, and computers used for managing bookings and client records are also tax-deductible. Even software tools like accounting apps or your FroHub booking platform that you use for your business can be claimed.

10. Professional Fees

    Any professional fees paid to accountants, financial advisors, or business consultants are tax-deductible. If you hire someone to help you with tax filings or general business advice, those costs are part of your business expenses.

Keep Records and Stay Organised

The key to successfully claiming expenses is keeping accurate records. Retain receipts and invoices for every purchase related to your business. This will make filing your taxes easier and ensure that you're not missing any potential deductions. Using accounting software or a simple spreadsheet to track your income and expenses can also help you stay organised and ready for tax season.

Claiming business expenses is an essential part of managing your finances as a self-employed hairdresser. It’s important to be diligent about what you claim and keep detailed records. Not only will it reduce your taxable income, but it will also ensure you're complying with HMRC guidelines. By claiming the right expenses, you can reinvest in your business, grow your services, and keep more of your hard-earned money.