Seatax
How seafarers lose Seafarers’ Earnings Deduction
Search results and AI overviews now list the ways crew lose ‘tax-free’ status. They match what we see in files: claiming before 365 days exist, too much UK leave, no foreign port, an installation instead of a ship, or falling out of UK residence.
Pain
You assumed you were tax-free from the first contract. The eligible period had not even started.
Solution
We map the period that actually qualifies, and we will not file a claim that is only a rumour.
The failure list
Starting sea work and claiming immediately. A UK visit over 183 consecutive days. UK days over half the eligible period. No voyage beginning or ending outside the UK. Vessel is an offshore installation. Dry dock with a breached hull. Crown employment. Not UK or EEA resident. College or shore duties treated as sea time.
What to do instead
Send Seatax the discharge book and pay records. We will tell you if this year qualifies, if you should wait, or if only part of the earnings are in an eligible period.
This page is general information based on published HMRC guidance, not personal tax advice. Seatax will apply the rules to your sea service after you enrol. Fees from £275 including VAT per return.
Questions people ask
Can I fix a bad claim from last year?
Sometimes, by amending or by reconstructing the evidence. Come to us before HMRC does.
Enrol with Seatax
Ready to put your seafarer tax in order?
Fees from £275 including VAT per tax return. Download the pack, or call us and we will deal with your enquiry within 24 hours.