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Can I claim mileage tax relief if I only work a few hours a week?

Simon Thompson · Head of accounting, Taxbax · 27 August 2025

Tan leather car interior showing the steering wheel and dashboard

If you work part-time or on reduced hours and still travel for work, you may be entitled to a mileage tax rebate from HMRC. Many PAYE workers assume they need to be full-time to claim — but that’s not true.

Who qualifies for a mileage rebate on low hours?

You may qualify if:

  • You’re employed and taxed under PAYE
  • You use your own vehicle for business travel
  • Your employer pays you less than 45p per mile or doesn’t reimburse you at all

This applies to:

  • Part-time retail staff
  • Healthcare workers doing weekend shifts
  • Mobile carers
  • Teaching assistants working reduced timetables

What journeys can I claim for?

Mileage claims apply to work-related travel such as:

  • Visiting clients or patients
  • Travelling between temporary work sites
  • Attending off-site meetings or training

Commuting to one fixed workplace doesn’t count.

How much could I claim if I work limited hours?

Even if you only work 1–3 days a week, your mileage can still add up — especially if you’ve never claimed before and are eligible to backdate up to four tax years.

Example:

  • 1,200 miles driven in a year
  • No reimbursement from your employer
  • You could claim tax relief on £540 of mileage

What if I didn’t keep detailed records?

No problem. TaxBax can help estimate your mileage using your job type, shift pattern and typical travel routine. No receipts or logbooks required.

Start your claim today

Even on reduced hours, you might be owed a rebate. Use our free calculator to see what HMRC could owe you.

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