Tax Return for Painters & Decorators
Complete your Self Assessment in 8 minutes. Claim all your allowable expenses and submit directly to HMRC.
- Track job income
- Materials and supplies expenses
- Vehicle and mileage support
- MTD-ready for 2026
Example Tax Calculation
Based on typical painters & decorators earnings £35,000/year
*Illustrative example based on 2024/25 tax rates. Your actual tax depends on your specific circumstances.
Allowable Expenses for Painters & Decorators
Claim these tax-deductible expenses to reduce your tax bill
Materials and Supplies
Paint, brushes, rollers, masking tape, and decorating supplies.
Tip: Only claim materials not recharged to clients.
Equipment
Ladders, scaffolding, dust sheets, and spray equipment.
Tip: Keep receipts for all equipment purchases.
Vehicle Expenses
Mileage or actual costs for your van used for work.
Tip: Log all business journeys with dates and destinations.
Insurance
Public liability insurance for decorating work.
Tip: Insurance premiums are fully deductible.
More expenses you can claim
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 painters & decorators
Do painters and decorators need to register as self-employed?
If you work independently and invoice for jobs, you must register for Self Assessment.
Can I claim paint and materials?
Yes. Materials you purchase for jobs that are not recharged to clients are allowable expenses.
What is the Self Assessment deadline?
Online Self Assessment is due by 31 January after the tax year ends.
Ready to File Your Tax Return?
Join thousands of UK painters & decorators who trust QTax for their Self Assessment