A P85 form is used when you have left, or are leaving, the UK and is used as part of a ‘Leaving the UK’ tax back claim. The P85 tells the UK tax authorities certain information like the date you have left the UK, the country you are the leaving the UK for, and other personal details relating to your tax position in the UK.
When do I need to complete a P85?
You should submit a P85 form if you have been working in the UK and;
- are going to work in another country for a full tax year or,
- are leaving without a definite return date
If you are entitled to a ‘Leaving the UK’ tax rebate, the refund can only be paid to you after a P85 has been completed.
How to get tax back when leaving the UK claim
How you claim tax back after leaving the UK depends on your circumstances. If you have a basic tax position in the UK you would normally need in addition to the P85 your final P45 from your last employer.
It is common for the UK tax authorities to not have up to date pay and tax details on record and this is why the final P45 helps complete your claim.
Other information is sometimes needed and there are additional reasons why you could claim a larger tax refund back from the UK like tax back on job related expenses.
