Hairdresser & Barber

Style your finances — tax advice for self-employed stylists and chair renters.

Allowable Expenses

• Chair or Salon Rental — Weekly or monthly rent to use a salon chair or booth — the most common expense for self-employed stylists.
• Professional Products — Colour, toners, shampoos, conditioners, and styling products used on clients — deductible as cost of sales.
• Tools & Equipment — Scissors, clippers, thinning shears, hair dryers, straighteners, and other professional tools.
• Training & Education — Colour masterclasses, advanced cutting courses, and product training — keep certificates as evidence.
• Insurance — Professional indemnity and public liability insurance — required by most salon landlords.
• Uniform & Workwear — A dedicated uniform or apron worn only while working can be claimed — not general clothing.

Tax Tips

• If you rent a chair, you are self-employed — your chair rent and all business costs are deductible against your income from client services.
• Tips received from clients are taxable income — if they are significant, keep a record and declare them on your Self Assessment.
• Stock purchased for retail sale to clients is a cost of goods sold — keep it separate from products used in services.
• Register for Self Assessment before the 5 October deadline following your first year of self-employment.

Frequently Asked Questions

If I rent a salon chair, am I self-employed?

Yes. If you pay chair rent and keep your own client income, you are self-employed. You must register with HMRC and file a Self Assessment return. Your chair rent and all business costs are deductible against your income.

Are tips from clients taxable?

Yes. Tips received from clients — whether in cash or through card — are taxable trading income and must be included in your Self Assessment return. Keep a simple record of regular tips received.

Can I claim professional products used on clients?

Yes. Colour, shampoo, conditioner, and other products used during client services are a direct cost of your work and fully deductible. Products bought for retail sale to clients are a cost of goods sold — keep them separate from service products.

What if I sometimes work in a client's home — is travel deductible?

Yes. Travel from your home or salon to a client's home for a mobile appointment is a business journey and fully deductible at 45p per mile (first 10,000 miles). Keep a mileage log recording the date, destination, and purpose of each mobile appointment.