A lot of PAYE workers are missing out on a relatively unknown tax allowance which could save them hundreds of euro each year. Flat Rate Expenses (FRE) as the allowances are known as can be claimed as a deduction on your income solely based on a worker’s job description.
The FRE allowances are dependant on your area of employment and are set at different levels.
For example Nurses who are launder and supply their own uniforms can claim €733, while nurses aides, attendants, orderlies with the same uniform obligations can claim €526
Teachers, doctors, engineers, journalists, plumbers, along with members of the joinery and carpentry trade are also entitled to similar deductions. Shop workers are granted a flat expense rate of €121 per year, while bar trade employees get €97.
Members of the RTE National Symphony Orchestra can claim the highest amount, a massive €2,476
FRE deduction is not automatic and you have to contact revenue to ask about your possible FRE allowance. If you are employed in an area that is covered by the FRE allowance you can claim expenses back for the last 4 years
Figures available from taxback.com showed that just one third of the PAYE workforce (571,000) claimed allowable expenses of €70.9 million in 2013.
