If you’ve ever filled up your car for a work trip and thought, “surely I shouldn’t be paying for this myself,” you are not alone. The good news is, in many cases, you can claim mileage from HMRC for travel expenses. This is your chance to get a little cash back for the miles you’ve actually driven for work.
What Counts as Work Travel?
Not every journey qualifies. Your commute from home to your usual workplace is off the table — HMRC does not pay for your daily traffic jam. However, you may be eligible for mileage if you:
- Travel between different work sites during the day
- Attend meetings at locations that are not your main office
- Transport equipment or materials needed for your job
The key is that the travel must be necessary for your work and not part of your normal commute.
How Mileage Claims Work
HMRC allows you to claim mileage a set rate per mile, which depends on the type of vehicle you use:
- Cars and vans: 45p per mile for the first 10,000 miles, then 25p per mile after
- (These rates apply for the 2025/26 tax year. The rate will rise to 55p per mile from April 2026, as confirmed by HMRC.)
- Motorcycles: 24p per mile
- Bicycles: 20p per mile
Keep a record of your journeys, including dates, purpose, and miles travelled. Even small trips add up over the year.
Other Travel Expenses You Might Claim
Besides mileage, some additional travel costs may be eligible:
- Parking fees while on work duties
- Tolls or congestion charges
- Public transport fares when necessary for work
Make sure to keep receipts or a log — HMRC likes evidence.
How to Claim Mileage Safely
You can claim your mileage through self-assessment or a standalone claim if you do not normally file a tax return. HMRC’s online tools also make it easy to check your eligibility. If you would like some help getting started, feel free to give us a shout.
Why It’s Worth Keeping Track
Many people don’t claim because they assume it is too complicated or that small amounts are not worth it. In reality, adding up all those work trips can result in a decent refund from HMRC. Think of it as a little reward for all the miles you’ve racked up for your job.
A Few Tips for Smooth Claims
- Keep a mileage log or use an app to track trips
- Record receipts for parking, tolls, or public transport
- Only claim for travel that is actually work-related
- Review claims annually to make sure nothing is missed
Claiming mileage may seem like a small thing, but over time, it can make a noticeable difference to your tax position. It’s safe, legitimate, and perfectly normal in the eyes of HMRC.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What counts as a temporary workplace?Any location where you work less than 24 months for a specific task.
- Can I claim for commuting to my regular office?No. Ordinary commuting to a permanent workplace is never claimable.
- Can I claim public transport costs?Only if traveling between workplaces or to a temporary work site, not regular commuting.
- What are the approved mileage rates?45p per mile for first 10,000 miles, 25p per mile thereafter. (The first 10,000 mile rate increases to 55p from April 2026.)
- Can I claim if my employer reimburses me less than HMRC rates?Yes, the difference can be claimed via Mileage Allowance Relief.
- Can I include parking or toll charges?Yes, if incurred during a business journey.
- Can I claim mileage for carrying tools?Only if traveling to a temporary workplace, not a permanent office.
- Do I need to keep a mileage log?Yes. HMRC requires date, destination, miles, and purpose for each journey.
- Can hybrid workers claim mileage to the office?Only if that office counts as a temporary workplace.
- Can I claim mileage for work-related errands at my main office?No, trips around your permanent office are considered commuting.
