Can I also deduct the costs for my work clothing in my tax return?
May 6, 2023 | 40,00 EUR | answered by Anneliese Schaaf
Dear tax advisor,
my name is Claudia Gruhlke and I work as a physiotherapist in a practice. In my profession, I wear special work clothing that I only wear during my working hours. This work clothing consists of special shoes, pants, and tops that meet my work requirements and are necessary to carry out my activities.
So far, I have not included the costs for my work clothing in my tax return, as I am unsure whether these expenses are actually deductible. I am worried that I may be missing out on money by not claiming these costs.
Could you please tell me if I can include the costs for my work clothing in my tax return? If yes, what documents do I need and how exactly do I need to prove these costs? Are there any specific regulations or limits that I need to consider?
I look forward to your feedback and thank you in advance for your assistance.
Best regards,
Claudia Gruhlke
Dear Mrs. Gruhlke,
Thank you for your inquiry regarding the deductibility of the costs for your work clothing in your tax return. As a physiotherapist in a practice, you wear special work clothing that is necessary to carry out your professional activities. It is understandable that you are unsure whether these costs are tax deductible and whether you may be missing out on money if you do not include these expenses in your tax return.
In general, the costs for work clothing can be claimed as a tax deduction if they are work-related and worn exclusively for the performance of your professional activities. This means that the work clothing should not be worn privately. In your case, where you require special work clothing to carry out your activities as a physiotherapist, it is very likely that the costs are tax deductible.
To include the costs for your work clothing in your tax return, you usually need a receipt or an invoice that shows which clothing items you purchased and how much you paid for them. It is important that the receipt is issued in your name and the purpose of the clothing is clearly identifiable. You should ensure that the clothing items are clearly marked as work clothing and cannot be worn privately.
There are no fixed rules or limits for the amount of deductible costs for work clothing. Typically, you can claim the actual costs as long as they are reasonable and verifiable. It is advisable to carefully keep all receipts and documents related to your expenses in case of any inquiries from the tax office.
I hope this information helps you and answers your question. If you have any further questions or need assistance, I am here to help.
Best regards,
Anneliese Schaaf
Tax Advisor
