TaxSimba — Can You Claim Business Costs Paid Before You Started Trading?
Preparation worksheet

Optional offline planning aid, not a tax return or filing confirmation.
Keep completed notes securely; never include passwords or one-time codes.

WORK THROUGH THIS EXAMPLE
For each earlier cost, record the date, supplier, purpose, trade-start date and any private or capital element. Keep the evidence rather than labelling every purchase before the first sale as startup expenses. Training and equipment can need their own assessment.

DECISION TO RESOLVE
Would the cost qualify under the relevant conditions rather than merely fall within seven years?

YOUR POSITION
Relevant year and source: ____________________
Evidence supporting your answer: ____________________
Missing item and who will obtain it: ____________________
Deadline or next review date: ____________________

1. Build a commencement timeline.
Notes: ______________________________

2. List pre-trading dates, suppliers and costs.
Notes: ______________________________

3. Explain the business purpose of each item.
Notes: ______________________________

4. Separate equipment, training and private-use items.
Notes: ______________________________

5. Identify reimbursements or previous relief.
Notes: ______________________________

Actions agreed and responsible person:
____________________________________

Guide: https://taxsimba.co.uk/blogs/pre-trading-startup-expenses-self-employed
Check the current guide and official sources before relying on a deadline or process.