Travel Expenses - what can I actually claim back??

[HubbaBubba]

Hi all,

I have just a couple of questions regarding travel expenses and what I am legally allowed to claim back... Just to fill you in: I have been employed at my current place of work for four years now, and was very recently asked to work on-site for our client (temporarily) for the next 3 - 4 months. I am being told to use my personal car to cover the distance. The distance to the clients workplace is now twice my usual commute. My contract clearly states: "All travelling expenses away from the office will be reimbursed."


I just have a few questions:

• I am being told that I can only claim mileage allowance for the additional distance on top of what my usual commute to/from work would be. Can anyone confirm if this is correct or am I entitled to claim back the whole journey?
• My employer will only reimburse 30 pence per mile. I am aware that the current AMAP rate is 45 pence per mile. Since I am not self-employed and do not handle my own taxes, is there a reason why my employer would not reimburse the full 45 pence? Does this mean I now have to submit a tax-claim to reclaim the additional 15 pence that I am entitled to?? Do I now need to keep my petrol receipts too???
• My employer has stated that, whilst working away, I am not allowed to claim any food expenses (i.e. lunch). Can anyone confirm is this is correct or am I also entitled to claim back my lunch? (provided I have kept receipts)

Would really appreciate some help with the above questions. Thanks for your time.


Cheers.

[des8]

Re: Travel Expenses - what can I actually claim back??

I think most of these items are negotiable with your employer, but others here will advise more fully.

Something that is not negotiable is your car insurance! Check your policy to make sure travelling to a different workplace is covered.

[L'pool64]

Re: Travel Expenses - what can I actually claim back??

Hi,

Based on previous employment, the following is my understanding:

mileage expenses incurred from your normal place or work, to your new place of work, is refundable. Not the mileage for the whole journey.

luncheon expenses are generally not refundable, when you are working away from your normal place of work, as you have to eat lunch wherever you work.

i am sorry that I cannot advise exactly on the mileage allowance. I have previously been able to claim the rates that my employer set for using my own car. My understanding of this is that they include the price of petrol/diesel and override for wear and tear etc. the exact amount depends on the cc of the car being used.

all of these issues are usually covered in the "staff handbook" or equivalent, which most companies have and you should access to.

hope this helps,

:beagle: