What expenses can self-employed or locum optometrists deduct against income?
Locum optometrists can claim GOC (General Optical Council) registration fees, College of Optometrists subscriptions, professional indemnity insurance (AOP), relevant CET/CPD course costs, specialist equipment (e.g., ophthalmoscopes), and travel to non-permanent practice locations.
Can practice owners claim tax relief on high-value optical diagnostic equipment?
Yes. Equipment such as retinal cameras, OCT scanners, and automated perimeter units qualify under the Annual Investment Allowance (AIA), allowing you to deduct up to 100% of the purchase cost against taxable corporate profits in the year of acquisition.
How does VAT work for opticians selling both sight tests and corrective eyewear?
Eye examinations and medical dispensing are exempt from VAT, whereas the sale of frames and spectacle lenses is standard-rated. To calculate VAT correctly on complete spectacles, opticians must use a HMRC-approved Full Cost or Separated Values apportionment method.
Opticians
Our dedicated optical accounting team understands the operational realities faced by independent opticians, optometrists, dispensing opticians, and locum eye care professionals.
