Starting and running a successful nail technician business involves more than just having talent — there’s also a financial side to consider. One crucial aspect of this is understanding what expenses you can claim to help reduce your tax bill and keep more of your hard-earned money. If you’re self-employed or operate as a sole trader, many of the essential costs you encounter can be considered business expenses, meaning you can claim them to lower your taxable income.
Let’s break down the key expenses you can claim as a nail technician and how investing in nail tech qualifications can also help you grow your business.
Nail Tech Qualifications and Courses
A significant and often overlooked expense that can be claimed is the cost of training. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to advance your skills, nail tech qualifications are essential for becoming a licensed professional and keeping up with the latest trends in the industry. These courses can be a legitimate business expense, allowing you to continually invest in your professional growth.
At Glitterbels, we offer a range of nail tech courses that cater to all skill levels—from beginners to experienced nail techs. Not only will these qualifications make you more attractive to potential clients, but as a business expense, they’re an investment that will benefit both your career and your tax return.
Tools and Equipment
From nail files to electric drills, all the tools you use to deliver top-quality services can be claimed as business expenses. This includes the basics, such as clippers, scissors, buffers, and lamps, as well as more specialised equipment like UV/LED lamps and nail art brushes. Keeping receipts for these purchases is essential, as it adds up over time. And if you need some essentials check out our collection here.
Products and Supplies
A well-stocked kit is essential to running a successful nail business. You can claim the cost of consumables like acrylic powders, gel polishes, topcoats, and even the cleaning supplies you use to sanitise your workspace. Glitterbels offers a variety of high-quality nail products, and restocking your kit regularly not only ensures that you’re providing top-notch service but also gives you the advantage of reducing your taxable income. We put together a handy list of acrylic nail essentials here if you want to dive deeper.
Marketing and Advertising
Getting your name out there requires investment. The cost of building and maintaining a website, running social media ads, printing business cards, or attending networking events can all be claimed as business expenses. Whether you’re running a nail bar or working as a mobile nail tech, advertising plays a huge role in attracting and retaining clients. Make sure to factor in these costs when doing your accounts.
Rent and Utilities
If you rent a chair in a salon or have your own studio space, you can claim the rent as a business expense. Even if you work from home, a portion of your home-related costs, like rent, utilities, and broadband, may be eligible to claim as a business expense. This is particularly useful for mobile nail technicians, as they can also claim for things like vehicle mileage or travel expenses when going to clients’ homes.
Uniforms and Clothing
While you might not need a full-on uniform, any specialised clothing or protective gear, such as aprons or gloves, that you use for work can also be claimed as a business expense. This helps keep you looking professional while also ensuring you’re compliant with health and safety standards.
Insurance
Whether you operate from a salon or offer mobile services, having the right insurance is crucial. Public liability insurance, for example, protects you if a client is injured during a treatment. Professional indemnity insurance is also essential, covering you in case a client isn’t happy with the service they’ve received. These costs can be claimed as part of your business expenses, helping you stay protected without added financial stress.
Investing in Your Future
Remember, being a nail technician isn’t just about having the right products—it’s about having the right qualifications to offer professional, high-quality services. At Glitterbels, we encourage all aspiring and current nail techs to invest in their education by signing up for nail tech qualifications that will help grow their business. By keeping track of your expenses and investing in the right tools and training, you can continue to thrive in the nail industry, while also minimising your tax bill. Whether it’s courses, products, or marketing, every penny you spend can help shape the future of your nail tech business.