12th September 2005, 01:00 PM
One way that I have found to claim alittle bit back is to apply for the tax back for essential work items. This applys even if you are employed. Basically, you can claim the tax back for everything that is essential for your job:
work clothes,
mobile phone + calls
fuel allowance (getting to and fro from site, as the unit office is usually your place of work)
internet access (after all as an archaeologist you are expected to keep up to date on research)
a room in your house as an office (for your research)
percentage of your council tax, fuel and home phone bill etc.
breakfast, lunch allowance
There is a specific form and booklet from the tax office, and process takes about two weeks from application to receiving your cheque. You can back claim up to five years!!! Once you have made your first claim, you no longer need the form (although you can if you wish)
I learnt this trick from a tax officer who was volenteering on my site one summer. He was quite frankly horrified at our pay, conditions and that no one was claiming their entitlements!!
If anyone wants further details of help feel free to email me. I will also dig out the form code...
The governement takes,takes takes, So spread the word and get some back.
work clothes,
mobile phone + calls
fuel allowance (getting to and fro from site, as the unit office is usually your place of work)
internet access (after all as an archaeologist you are expected to keep up to date on research)
a room in your house as an office (for your research)
percentage of your council tax, fuel and home phone bill etc.
breakfast, lunch allowance
There is a specific form and booklet from the tax office, and process takes about two weeks from application to receiving your cheque. You can back claim up to five years!!! Once you have made your first claim, you no longer need the form (although you can if you wish)
I learnt this trick from a tax officer who was volenteering on my site one summer. He was quite frankly horrified at our pay, conditions and that no one was claiming their entitlements!!
If anyone wants further details of help feel free to email me. I will also dig out the form code...
The governement takes,takes takes, So spread the word and get some back.