What General Expenses Can I Include in My Aesthetics Business?
When you run your own business you incur plenty of day-to-day expenses, many of which you can claim to help reduce your tax bill.
From basic operational costs to marketing expenses, these general deductions apply across industries and are essential for any business’s financial health.
It’s been estimated that UK business miss out on £5.6 billion each year in unclaimed expenses!
For medical or cosmetic aesthetics practitioners these general expenses are just as relevant, tracking and claiming them can support sustainable growth and profitability. In this article, we’ll explore the core business expenses (called allowable expenses by HMRC) you can include—whether you’re in aesthetics or any other field.
How Allowable Business Expenses Work
Allowable expenses are costs you can subtract from your profits before tax is calculated, which means:
more expenses = lower taxable profit = reduced tax bill.
Example: If you have sales (or 'turnover') of £50,000 and spend £20,000 on cosmetic injectables, that £20,000 reduces your taxable profit to £30,000—lowering the tax you owe.
This approach not only saves on tax but also keeps more cash in reserves while staying within HMRC guidelines. Both sole traders and Ltd companies follow this principle, though sole traders should avoid using the £1,000 trading allowance if claiming expenses is more beneficial.
Basic Operational Expenses
Every business has the basics it needs to keep ticking along, and thankfully, many of these costs are deductible.
Office and Clinic Rent
Whether you’re leasing a full clinic space or just a room for treatments, rent is a claimable expense. Even if you work from home, you can claim a portion of household bills—just keep it business-related (no claiming the whole sofa!).
Utilities and Office Supplies
Electricity, water, paper, pens—any essentials that help run your business day-to-day are deductible. It could be jotting notes or stocking up on supplies, if it supports your work, it’s covered!
Administrative and Communication Costs
Running a business means staying connected, and communication costs can add up! Here’s what you can claim:
Phone and Internet
Your mobile and broadband bills are partially deductible if you use them for business—just make sure you’re only claiming the work-related portion (that endless scroll on Instagram doesn’t count!).
Software and Subscriptions
Whether it’s an accounting app or a CRM for managing clients, these tools are essential. From scheduling software to business email hosting, these help keep your operations smooth and your claims valid.
Marketing and Advertising
Getting the word out about your business isn’t just fun—it’s claimable!
Advertising Expenses
From Facebook ads to printed flyers, you can claim the costs of getting your name out there. Social media ads can be particularly effective in aesthetics, but no matter where you advertise, it all counts as a business expense.
Website Costs
Your website is your digital shopfront, and expenses for design, hosting, and maintenance are all deductible. Keeping it updated not only attracts clients but also supports a solid tax claim.
Professional and Financial Services
Every business needs a bit of backup now and then, for admin tasks like tax or planning expansion.
Accounting and Legal Fees
Paying for a good accountant or legal advice is worth it, and it’s fully claimable. They keep you compliant and help spot tax savings you might miss on your own—definitely a worthy expense.
Consulting and Advisory Fees
Hiring business consultants or financial advisors? Claim it! These pros can give you insights and strategies, helping take your aesthetics business to the next level
Business Travel and Development
Sometimes you need to get out there—whether it’s for training or meeting clients. Here’s how these expenses can work for you:
Travel Expenses
If you’re driving to a client consultation, attending a conference, or travelling for training, the costs of mileage, tickets, and even accommodation can be claimed. Keep those receipts handy!
Training and Memberships
Any courses, workshops, or memberships that build your business knowledge are deductible. This applies to business skills courses or memberships in general professional associations.
How to Claim Business Expenses
You can claim business expenses when you file your tax return, by completing the relevant section (*Ltd companies must also include them in their company accounts and company tax return).
However, to make sure you’re maximising your deductions and keeping everything in order, it’s always best to work with an accountant.
At Sadler Advisory, we can guide you through the process and develop a tailored plan to help manage your expenses and keep your business financially efficient. Get in touch with us for personalised advice and onboarding that ensures you’re set up for success.
Claiming Expenses Summarised
Tracking and deducting relevant business costs can help you reduce your tax bill, keep your cash flow in check, and reinvest in your growth.
Both sole traders and Ltd companies can benefit from these deductions, so it’s worth taking the time to get familiar with what you can claim. And if you’re not getting what you’re entitled to you are seriously missing out on potential profit.
But with these tips, you’re on your way to being well-prepared for your business administration.
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