Maximise Your Tax Relief with SBX: What You Can (Legally) Claim Back

Paying tax is part of doing business — but that doesn’t mean you should pay more than you need to. By making full use of available reliefs and allowances, you can significantly reduce your tax bill and free up cash to reinvest, save, or enjoy.

At SBX Accountants, we simplify the complex. Here’s a clear guide to what tax relief actually is — and the key claims worth knowing about.

What Is Tax Relief?

Tax relief is a legitimate way to reduce your tax bill. It lets you pay less tax by claiming certain costs, making qualifying investments, or using HMRC-approved schemes.

Important: Tax relief is not tax avoidance. These are government-backed incentives, designed to encourage business growth and investment.

Claiming Allowable Business Expenses

Running a business comes with everyday costs — and many of these are deductible.

How it works:

You don’t get a refund for claiming an expense — instead, the cost is subtracted from your profits before your tax is calculated.

Common allowable expenses:

• Business travel (e.g. trains, taxis)
• Rent and utilities
• Staff wages or subcontractors
• Work uniforms or protective gear
• Marketing and advertising
• Training and CPD
• Stock or goods for resale
• Professional fees (legal, accounting)

If an expense is used wholly and exclusively for your business, there’s a good chance it’s deductible. If unsure, SBX can help you check.

Business Asset Disposal Relief (BADR)

Formerly known as Entrepreneurs’ Relief, BADR allows you to pay just 14% Capital Gains Tax when you sell or close your business, or dispose of shares — provided you meet the eligibility criteria.

Thinking of exiting or restructuring? We can help assess whether you qualify.

Capital Allowances

Capital allowances apply to major business purchases like equipment, machinery, or company vehicles.

You may be able to:

• Claim the Annual Investment Allowance (AIA) — deduct the full cost in the year of purchase
• Use writing down allowances — spread relief over time

The rules can vary, so it's smart to get advice before making big investments.

Creative Industry Tax Reliefs

If you run a limited company in a creative sector, you may be eligible for Corporation Tax reliefs, including:

• Animation Tax Relief (ATR)
• Children’s Television Tax Relief (CTR)
• Film Tax Relief (FTR)
• High-End TV Tax Relief (HTR)
• Video Games Tax Relief (VGTR)

These can offer significant savings. SBX can guide you through the claims process.

National Insurance Relief for Employers

If you employ staff, you could be entitled to:

• Employment Allowance — worth up to £10,500/year (2025/26)
• NI relief for hiring military veterans
• NI savings in Freeport areas

These reliefs help reduce your overall payroll costs.

The Patent Box Scheme

Innovative businesses that hold patents may qualify to pay just 10% Corporation Tax on profits derived from patented products or processes.

There are conditions to meet — but the tax savings can be substantial.

R&D Tax Relief

You don’t need to wear a lab coat to claim R&D relief. If your company has invested in solving technical or scientific challenges, you may qualify.

Key points:

• Available to UK limited companies in any sector
• Project doesn’t need to succeed — it just needs to involve technical uncertainty and innovation

SBX can assess your eligibility and manage your claim from start to finish.

Small Business Rate Relief

If you rent or own non-domestic property (e.g. a shop or office), you may be eligible for Small Business Rate Relief.

You could qualify if:

• Your property has a rateable value under £15,000
• You occupy only one business premises (exceptions apply)

How much can you save?

• Under £12,000: 100% relief (no business rates)
• £12,001–£15,000: Tapered relief (e.g. ~50% off at £13,500)

Need Help Claiming What You're Entitled To?

Whether you’re a sole trader, a limited company, or just getting started — knowing what to claim (and how to do it properly) makes a big difference.

SBX Accountants can help you:

• Identify eligible tax reliefs
• Ensure correct VAT and expense treatment
• Reduce your Corporation Tax and personal tax liability

Get in touch today — and make sure you’re not leaving money on the table.