Episode Details

Can you claim parking expenses as a dentist?

What about a coffee machine for your practice—could that really be deductible?

Or investing in a MSc in Implantology—does that count as a tax write-off?

In this episode, chartered accountant Sebastian Stracey joins Jaz to answer all those “am I naughty if I claim this?” questions that dentists and associates always wonder about. Together, they cover what’s truly deductible, what isn’t, and some surprising exceptions you might not expect.

They also dive into the bigger picture—how principals and associates really compare in terms of income, stress, and responsibility—and Seb shares insights that might change the way you view your career path.

Protrusive Dental Pearl

Check out our free Financial Resilience Webinar Replay on Protrusive Guidance, where Dr. Sunny Sadana and I discuss associate contracts, case acceptance, investing, and fee setting.

Key Takeaways:

• Dentists often forget to claim mobile phone bills as expenses.
• Home office usage can be claimed, especially for associates.
• Keeping detailed mileage logs is crucial for claiming travel expenses.
• Laundry and cleaning expenses for scrubs can be claimed.
• Communication with your accountant is key to maximizing claims.
• Continuing education expenses can be gray areas but may be allowable.
• Gathering evidence for claims is essential to justify them to HMRC.
• Specialization programs can be claimed if they build on existing knowledge.
• Fixed fee services for accountants are beneficial for associates.
• Always discuss your situation with your accountant to ensure compliance. Many new dentists struggle financially during their training.
• Understanding tax obligations is crucial for financial stability.
• VAT regulations can be complex, especially for cosmetic treatments.
• It’s important to save for tax throughout the year, not just at the end.
• Common misconceptions about tax deductions can lead to financial pitfalls.
• Dentists should engage in financial education early in their careers.
• Expense claims can be tricky, especially for gifts and personal items.
• The distinction between personal and business expenses is vital for tax purposes.
• Associates and principals have different financial realities in dentistry.
• Communication and education about finances are essential for dental professionals.

Highlight of this episode:

• 00:00 Teaser
• 00:42 Introduction
• 02:06 Pearl: Free Financial Resilience Webinar Replay
• 04:45 Meet Sebastian Stracey
• 06:56 Common Missed Expenses
• 13:57 Home Internet Claims
• 16:49 Asking Accountants Questions
• 19:07 Claiming Masters Courses
• 26:31 Specialist Training Costs
• 27:30 Midroll
• 30:41 Specialist Training Costs
• 33:28 Saving for Tax Bills
• 36:36 VAT on Cosmetic Work
• 40:06 “Am I Naughty If?” Questions
• 49:10 Wild Expense Attempts
• 50:11 Ways Dentists Can Learn More About Tax and Finance
• 51:56 Associate vs Principal Numbers