I pay into the BDA; can I claim a tax refund?
As a Dentist you are usually expected to belong to the British Dental Association and it is possible to claim tax relief on 100% of your membership fee.
The only exception to this is if your employer already refunds the membership cost in full.
Making a BDA tax relief claim can include your costs for the last 4 years and give you a reduction in future tax bills through a new tax code.
Other tax reliefs available for BDA members…
Most dentists shell out for other work items and expenses some of which HMRC will allow tax relief on, such as:
- Washing your own uniform, if your employer does not supply access to laundering facilities.
- Membership into other allowable professional bodies or trade unions for example UNISON.
- Travel expenses if you pay for using your own vehicle to visit a temporary workplace like different clinics for example.
Self employment and the BDA
If you’re self employed your BDA fees are tax deductible. The fee will have to be entered in your tax return as an allowable expense.
Your accountant should include your BDA membership fee along with any other allowable expenses when completing your annual accounts.
How do I claim my BDA tax rebate?
You can claim tax relief for your BDA fees and other expenses by contacting the tax office (aka HMRC).
The process can be made online or in writing through the post. HMRC let you call them if you need them for additional support.
BDA tax rebate claim if you are claiming £2500 or more:
For a tax rebate claim worth £2500 or more your BDA claim should be included in your self assessment tax return,
BDA tax rebate claim if you are claiming less than £2500:
If you are employed under PAYE and making a claim that is worth less than £2500 you should complete the HMRC form P87.
A P87 can be processed online or printed off and posted to HMRC directly.
After HMRC have received your claim you should expect to hear a response from them in about 8-12 weeks.
