Review purchases - Tax deductible?

**jezaff** · 15-01-09

I would be interested in buying newer netbook releases to review on my site, am I able to write the whole amount off as a "cost"? I would genuinly only be buying the device to review as I am sorted for PCs and whizz.

As a high rate payer (via the day job ie Payee) this is very worthwhile because my limited affiliate income should cover the cost and is much more favourable than having to pay out 40% on next years tax return!

Thanks.

**fizzbird** · 15-01-09

Originally Posted by jezaff

I would be interested in buying newer netbook releases to review on my site, am I able to write the whole amount off as a "cost"? I would genuinly only be buying the device to review as I am sorted for PCs and whizz.

You are likely to come under scrutiny doing this although you could be correct in theory?
Have you considered selling the machines on eBay afterwards and claiming the difference as a legitimate expense?

Some manufacturers and distributors will often supply a review machine if you ask btw.

**jezaff** · 15-01-09

It would be bought genuinly as an 'expense' as I will not be getting one otherwise! It would be useful for the members of the site and I know a number of people would love to know more about it. Of course there will be professional reviews flooding out but I make a point of responding and engaging with all members so hopefully that adds some extra value!

Like you suggest, selling it on would demonstrate that it was bought for review and not for use.

Originally Posted by fizzbird

Some manufacturers and distributors will often supply a review machine if you ask btw.

I had considered that actually, my pessimistic nature suggests they'd just laugh at me! But I guess it's worth a try. I might investigate! They can only say no?!

**hrbs** · 20-01-09

Hi

I would be interested in buying newer netbook releases to review on my site

- do you mean multiple purchases?

As Fizzbird says, buying and then selling on would be trading and included in your accounts (both income and cost should be shown rather than just the net loss).

If you kept one netbook and used it for ongoing user review then you could still get a 100% tax deduction due to the change in capital allowances in April 2008. The Annual Investment Allowance is 100% on the first £50k. The allowance will be reduced by private use, but as it is being used for ongoing review purposes, presumably private use will be NIL.

Regards

Keith
http://HRBS.biz