South Africa UK Tax Refunds Guide
If you have been employed in the UK and are from South Africa, or any other country, then you are probably due a UK tax refund.
Most South Africans leave the UK without going through this process and it is important to meet the Tax Office deadlines, so you don’t lose out on your tax rebate. You can still apply, even if you are already settled back home.
Claiming a UK tax rebate has no impact on your right to return to work in the UK and the money can be paid into your South African or UK bank account.
Who can apply for a UK tax refund from South Africa?
All UK taxpayers are permitted to apply for a tax rebate from South Africa and any other country. Monies are not automatically repaid; you need to supply HMRC with a valid claim to get what you’re due.
Why would I be due UK tax back from South Africa?
- If you didn’t use the total available tax free allowance in the year you moved away from the UK.
- If you have not made any claims for any tax allowances that you can claim for work expenses. For example; work uniform cleaning costs, using a private vehicle for work journeys and subscriptions to professional bodies.
- If you hold UK non-residency status for tax purposes, or rent out property in the UK.
How much UK tax can I claim back from South Africa?
This is based on a number of factors including; all your income streams, the dates you were working in the UK and the total amount of income tax you paid to the UK government.
Tax Rebate Services’ UK tax refund calculator can help you find out the value of your UK tax refund.
Your UK tax rebate amount is not subject to tax by HMRC or the South African Revenue Service.
What do I need to make a UK tax refund claim from South Africa?
To make your UK tax back you will normally need a:
- P85 form (which we can give you), this details all the necessary information concerning your employment status and the date you left the UK.
- P45, which UK employers issue to every employee as they leave their job. It is not essential, but it is helpful documentation.
How do I get UK tax back from South Africa?
The P85 leaving the UK form should be submitted to HMRC either online or by post. If you complete a self assessment tax return for the tax year in which you leave the UK you shouldn’t need to complete a P85.
HMRC will review your P85 and refund any income tax due to you to a UK bank account or by cheque.
