If you're a tradesperson who buys your own tools for work, you may be entitled to tax relief. Many trades also qualify for flat rate expenses—automatic allowances that don't require receipts.
Our specialists help tradespeople claim all their work-related reliefs. Here's what you can claim.
📊 Tools Tax Relief for Trades
- Flat rate expenses: Fixed annual allowance (no receipts)
- Actual expenses: Claim real costs (receipts needed)
- Backdate period: 4 years
- Relief rate: 20% or 40% depending on income
Flat Rate Expenses for Trades
Many trades have flat rate expense allowances—fixed amounts you can claim each year without keeping receipts:
See our complete flat rate expenses list for all trades.
Claiming Actual Tool Expenses
If you spend more than the flat rate amount on tools, you can claim actual expenses instead. To qualify:
- Tools must be necessary for your work
- You must pay for them yourself (not reimbursed)
- You need to keep receipts
You can't claim both flat rate and actual expenses—it's one or the other.
💡 Real Example
Padraig is a carpenter who never claimed flat rate expenses. When we reviewed his tax, we backdated four years of the €220 allowance. At the 40% tax rate, that's €352 from FRE alone. Combined with rent credit and emergency tax from a job change, his total refund was €3,280.
Other Reliefs for Tradespeople
Beyond tools, you may also be entitled to:
- Rent tax credit – up to €1,000/year
- Medical expenses – 20% relief
- Emergency tax – from job changes
- Work clothing – safety boots, hi-vis, etc.
The average refund our clients receive is €1,080.
Work in the Trades?
Our experts will claim your tool expenses and find all other reliefs.
Start Your Tax Review →No refund, no fee • Average refund €1,080 • TAIN: 77632V
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to keep receipts?
Not for flat rate expenses—they're automatic based on your job. For actual expenses, yes, you need receipts.
What if my employer provides tools?
You can only claim for tools you buy yourself. If your employer provides them, you can't claim.
How far back can I claim?
Four years. In 2025, you can claim for 2021, 2022, 2023, and 2024.