Reviewed by a Qualified Accountant
This content has been reviewed by our qualified chartered accountants. However, you should always check with a professional. If you have any questions at all, don’t hesitate to get in touch.
Whether you’re an aspiring actor, a rising entertainer, or a celebrity with a packed schedule, understanding which expenses you can claim is crucial for staying on top of your finances. From costumes to agent fees, there can be many tax-deductible costs that reduce your taxable income in the UK. Remember, HMRC requires that all claimed expenses be wholly and exclusively for the purpose of your trade. If you’re not entirely sure, it’s always best to consult a tax professional.
Below, we’ll explore key expense categories relevant to the entertainment industry.
Performance-Related Costs
👗 Costumes & Wardrobe
Costs for outfits used on stage or screen. Remember these should be specific to the performance and not everyday clothing.
🎨 Make-Up & Hair Styling
Expenses for professional make-up or hair services directly related to your roles or appearances.
🏹 Props & Stage Accessories
Items used in performances, photoshoots, or film scenes (e.g., fake weapons, specialised tools).
And more…
If it’s vital for your show or character, keep those receipts.
Research & Role Preparation
🎬 Tickets to Theatre, Opera & Film
Costs for attending shows or screenings to study techniques, trends, or production styles.
📚 Books, Online Resources & Subscriptions
Expenses for script research, character development, or learning about industry news.
🎶 Workshops & Audition Prep
Fees for any masterclasses, drama coaching, or dialect sessions that help you land a role.
And more…
If it directly supports your professional development, it may be tax-deductible.
Marketing & Publicity
📸 Headshots & Showreels
Professional photography and video editing fees for creating high-quality promotional material.
🌐 Website & Hosting
Costs of building and maintaining a personal website or online portfolio.
📢 Promotional Materials & Advertising
Expenses for business cards, posters, sponsored ads, or event promotions.
And more…
Raising your public profile is integral to your career, so keep track of all promotional spend.
Professional Services
📑 Agent & Booking Fees
Commission or fees you pay to agents or booking managers for finding roles and handling negotiations.
⚖️ Legal Advice
Expenses related to contract reviews, intellectual property, or entertainment law matters.
📜 Union & Guild Memberships
Fees for professional memberships (e.g., Equity) that support your career.
🛡️ Insurance
Public liability or equipment insurance that protects you and your assets.
And more…
Expert help ensures you can focus on your craft without legal or financial stress.
Studio & Home Office
🎓 Acting Classes & Workshops
Tuition fees for acting, dance, vocal, or other performance-based courses to sharpen your skills.
🎤 Voice & Accent Training
Specialised coaching to broaden your range for roles requiring specific vocal delivery.
📚 Online Courses & Tutorials
Subscriptions to educational platforms that improve your performance or presentation skills.
And more…
If it’s for professional growth, these costs can typically be claimed.
Equipment & Technology
💻 Computers & Laptops
Costs for devices used solely for scripts, auditions, video calls, and professional work.
📱 Smartphones & Tablets
Expenses for dedicated devices used to organise gigs, maintain social media, or schedule appearances.
🔧 Equipment Insurance
Premiums to protect laptops, cameras, or specialised gear from theft or damage.
And more…
As long as the equipment is only for business use, it may be deductible.
Travel & Accommodation
🚗 Mileage & Transport
Costs for driving, taking a train, or hiring a taxi to auditions, rehearsals, or on-location filming.
✈️ Flights
Airfare for interstate or international travel when performing or working on set abroad.
🏨 Accommodation
Hotel, Airbnb, or short-term rental costs if you need to stay overnight for work.
And more…
Keep a clear record of journey details to distinguish professional travel from personal holidays.
Health & Fitness
💪 Gym Memberships & Classes
Fees for a gym or personal training necessary to maintain specific physical requirements for a role.
🧘 Health & Wellness
Costs for yoga, pilates, or other activities if directly related to your on-screen or on-stage demands.
And more…
If fitness is part of your role requirement, keep the receipts for potential claims.
Office & Administration
🏠 Use of Home as Office
A portion of your rent or mortgage interest, utilities, and insurance if you routinely work from home (e.g., reviewing scripts, online auditions).
🖨️ Office Supplies
Costs for stationery, printer ink, and postage used for your career.
📞 Phone & Internet (Business Portion)
If your phone and broadband are also used for personal reasons, claim only the business portion.
And more…
Document how much time or space is dedicated to business use.
Miscellaneous
🤝 Networking Events & Industry Conventions
Entry fees or tickets for trade fairs, expos, or film festivals where you engage with potential employers.
🎁 Gifts for Clients or Crew
Reasonable costs for small gifts aimed at maintaining professional relationships.
⚙️ Data Backup & Storage
Subscriptions for cloud storage or external drives used to safeguard scripts, videos, or photographs.
And more…
If it’s wholly and exclusively for your profession, it may be claimable.
