To think more things should be tax deductible

[DyslexicScientist]

Many things are essential but you can't claim back income tax relief.

Like work commuting costs, prescription charges and NHS dentist charges. I believe other countries allow this but the uk doesn't. There is unfair advantages with being a contractor vs permie.

Similarly if your a student there is no tax relief on a laptop even though that is essential.

Aibu to want a tax overhaul?

[DisappointedOne]

I'm a company director and have no issues with VAT at all. (Flat rate scheme is a doddle.)

[Pico2]

Egosumquisum - most people are employees, so pay income tax and class 1 NIC. Obviously if you are a director of your own company you can arrange to earn enough to get an NI record and then pay dividends to avoid paying NI. But that isn't the experience of most people. And self employed people have another NI system. But why kid ourselves that the basic rate of tax for a standard employee is 20%? The thresholds are close to being aligned.