Petrol Claim for my work, UK?

Question

I have worked in the same industry, but for 3 different companies, for the past 15 yrs. I have always had a company car and claimed petrol allowance without any problems. Now, the company who bought us out 2 months ago, are saying I cannot claim petrol without providing receipts? I have not collected any, as I have never been asked to.

My boss is saying this is a requirement for the taxman. Does anyone know if this is correct? Of course, I will collect them from now, but I have £200 owing to me and am not happy!

Answer 1

you have 2 options:

Pay for fuel yourself and keep the receipts

or- get the company to issue you with a fuel payment card and the bills and receipts are sent direct to the company.

Its been a requirement for Years that Receipts must be shown for all expenses over £5. otherwise they cannot be legitimately claimed back for tax purposes.

I am amazed you got a way with this lazy no receipt  habit for so long.

a full VAT receipt is not necessary just the one you get for your charge card is enough.

Answer 2

Yep, they will be claiming back the VAT. If they do this the taxman can at any time ask for sight of these receipts.

On the subject of your missing £200. Did you pay cash? If not you may have the credit card receipts. If you did pay cash use your record of the mileage and can work it back from there using an average mileage. They might allow you some funds on the basis of this.

It's nothing personal ;o)

Answer 3

The receipts are needed for tax!

What a trusting lot you worked for before - I'd have creamed the suckers!

If you paid on a credit card you may be allowed to show the statement as proof of payment to your new boss this time)