Guides · Checked 10 October 2026

Expenses AV and event freelancers can claim

Every allowable expense comes off your profit, so you pay less tax. The rule is that the cost must be for your work. Here’s what that means for crew.

What you can usually claim

Kit and tools: cables, tools, a torch, a multimeter, cases, a laptop used for work.
Safety clothing: steel-toe boots, gloves, hi-vis, a hard hat, a harness.
Travel: mileage at HMRC’s rates, or train and plane fares, plus parking and tolls.
Hotels and meals when you’re working away overnight.
Training tickets that keep your existing skills up to date, such as IPAF, PASMA, first aid or rigging refreshers.
Phone and internet: the share you use for work.
Software and subscriptions you use for work.
Insurance: public liability and cover for your kit.
Accountant and bank fees for your business.

What usually doesn’t count

Everyday clothes, even if you only wear them for gigs. Plain blacks you could wear anywhere usually don’t count.
Training for a completely new line of work.
Fines, and anything personal.

Things used partly for work

If something is part personal, like your phone, claim the work share. If you use it 60% for work, claim 60% of the cost.

Working from home

If you do your admin from home, you can claim a flat amount a month instead of working out bills: £10 for 25 to 50 hours, £18 for 51 to 100 hours, and £26 for 101 hours or more.

The £1,000 trading allowance

If your expenses are small, you can take £1,000 off your income instead of claiming them. You can’t do both, so pick whichever is bigger.

Keep the receipts

Keep records for at least 5 years after the 31 January deadline for that year’s tax return. A clear photo of the receipt is fine.

From HMRC: Expenses if you’re self-employed, Working from home, How long to keep your records.

This guide is general information for people working for themselves in England, Wales and Northern Ireland, not tax advice. Last checked against HMRC’s guidance on 10 October 2026. If you’re unsure about your situation, check with HMRC or an accountant.