Tax Return for Hairdressers
Complete your Self Assessment in 8 minutes. Claim all your allowable expenses and submit directly to HMRC.
- Track chair rental costs
- Equipment and products
- Training expenses
- MTD-ready for 2026
Example Tax Calculation
Based on typical hairdressers earnings £28,000/year
*Illustrative example based on 2024/25 tax rates. Your actual tax depends on your specific circumstances.
Allowable Expenses for Hairdressers
Claim these tax-deductible expenses to reduce your tax bill
Chair/Booth Rental
Rent paid to the salon for your workspace or chair rental fees.
Tip: This is often your biggest deductible expense
Equipment & Tools
Scissors, hairdryers, straighteners, and styling tools.
Tip: Keep receipts for all equipment purchases
Products & Supplies
Hair products, colors, towels, and disposables you provide.
Tip: Track stock purchases for year-end inventory
Training & CPD
Courses, workshops, and continuing professional development.
Tip: Must relate to your current hairdressing skills
More expenses you can claim
Hairdressers Industry Insights
Essential information about working as a hairdressers in the UK
Average Hourly Rate
£15 – £50
London stylists and specialists can charge significantly more
Common Structure
sole trader
Most hairdressers are sole traders, whether mobile or salon-based
Required Certifications & Qualifications
When Do Hairdressers Earn Most?
Understanding seasonal demand helps you plan your income and expenses throughout the tax year.
Peak Demand Periods
Quieter Periods
Industry Insight
Regular clients provide baseline income; special occasions drive peaks
Tax tip: During quieter periods, use the time to organise receipts, update your records, and plan for upcoming tax deadlines.
Tax Tips for Hairdressers
Specific tax considerations to maximise your deductions and stay compliant
Chair rental is deductible if self-employed in a salon
Product costs are deductible
Training courses are deductible
Check employment status if working in someone else's salon
These tips are based on UK tax rules for the 2024/25 tax year. For personalised advice, consult a qualified accountant.
How to File Your Tax Return
Follow these simple steps to complete your Self Assessment
Gather Your Documents
Collect income records, receipts, and expense statements
Enter Income & Expenses
Add your earnings and claim allowable expenses with our guided flow
Review Your Calculation
See exactly how much tax you owe with real-time calculations
Submit to HMRC
File your tax return directly to HMRC in minutes
Key Deadlines for 2024/25 Tax Year
Don't miss these important dates
5 April 2025
Tax Year Ends
Calculate your final income and expenses
5 October 2025
Register for Self Assessment
If this is your first year self-employed
31 January 2026
Online Filing Deadline
Submit your tax return and pay any tax owed
6 April 2026
MTD Starts (£50k+)
If your income exceeds £50,000, you must use MTD software
Late Filing Penalties
1 day late: £100 fixed penalty
3 months late: £10/day up to £900
6 months late: 5% of tax owed or £300 (whichever is higher)
12 months late: Additional 5% or £300
Plus interest on any tax paid late. Avoid these costs by filing early with QTax.
Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to common questions about tax returns for hairdressers
Am I self-employed or employed?
If you rent a chair and set your own prices and hours, you are likely self-employed. If the salon controls your schedule and takes a cut of your earnings, you may be employed. Check your contract and working arrangements.
Can I claim for my uniform?
Clothing that is exclusively for work (like branded salon wear) may be deductible. Everyday clothing, even if worn to work, is not allowable.
Related Guides
Explore tax guides for similar professions
Ready to File Your Tax Return?
Join thousands of UK hairdressers who trust QTax for their Self Assessment