HSST trainees eligible for tax refunds on registration and exam fees

The Royal College of Pathology has announced that scientists registered with them that are also UK taxpayers are now eligible for full tax relief on their registration and examination fees. The designation of these fees as tax-deductible expenses means trainees could save between 20% and 40% on the overall cost. The savings can be claimed retrospectively, but only tax paid from the 2014/15 tax year onwards can be refunded.

This judgement will affect HSST trainees who have paid, or will be paying, fees to the Royal College as part of their training. Claims must be made directly to HMRC using a P87 form which can be submitted online, printed and posted or done over the phone. HMRC will require receipts as proof of purchase which can be obtained from the College by contacting their dedicated email address: taxrelief@rcpath.org . Trainees with any queries should refer to the College’s website and contact them directly.