We assist individuals who work at sea to check if they are eligible for the Seafarers Earnings Deduction or how they can become eligible in future. This can result in substantial tax savings.
If you’re a UK tax resident working at sea, you could be entitled to a powerful tax relief known as the Seafarers Earnings Deduction (SED). Backed by HMRC, this unique deduction allows eligible individuals to claim up to 100% tax exemption on their earnings from duties performed onboard a ship, offering the opportunity for substantial savings.
Whether you're an offshore worker or cruise ship performer Theataccounts specialises in helping you determine your eligibility and take full advantage of this relief.
The Seafarers Earnings Deduction is a tax relief available to UK-resident individuals who work onboard ships and spend significant time outside the UK. Recognised by HMRC, the relief applies to income earned during qualifying periods spent working at sea.
Under the Income Tax (Earnings and Pensions) Act 2003, eligible seafarers may deduct up to 100% of their foreign earnings, effectively making them non-taxable in the UK. It’s an invaluable scheme for those whose careers take them across international waters.
You may be eligible to claim if you meet the following key criteria:
Understanding these rules can be complex, which is why our team at Theataccounts is here to help you interpret the legislation and determine if your circumstances qualify.
To qualify as a "seafarer" under HMRC Seafarers Earnings Deduction rules, your role must involve duties carried out entirely or mainly at sea. Time spent onshore (e.g. during ship maintenance or training) does not count toward qualifying periods unless part of your voyage schedule.
Our team can guide you through verifying your employment records, travel logs, and contracts to ensure every qualifying day is accounted for.
The SED must be claimed via HMRC’s self-assessment tax return process. To support your claim, you’ll need detailed records, such as:
At Theataccounts, we ensure that your documentation is in order and your claim is submitted accurately, avoiding common pitfalls that may lead to rejection or delays.
We understand the unique challenges faced by professionals in the creative sector who work aboard cruise ships - dancers, singers, actors, and entertainers. You may qualify for SED even if your role doesn’t involve navigation or engineering.
Our experience with clients in the entertainment industry means we know exactly how to position your application for success, making sure your artistic work at sea qualifies under HMRC’s definitions.
Our expert accountants provide more than just compliance, we offer full-service support that includes:
With years of experience supporting seafarers and entertainers, we offer unmatched insight and personalised service.
By claiming the HMRC Seafarers Earnings Deduction, you can:
Don’t miss out on what you're legally entitled to, your time at sea should be financially rewarding too.
Whether you're a career seafarer or a performer embarking on a cruise contract, the Seafarers Earnings Deduction can be a major financial asset. Navigating the rules and paperwork can be tricky, but with Theataccounts on your side, you can sail smoothly through the process.
We make it easy to explore your SED eligibility. Our free initial consultation includes:
Contact us to schedule your no-obligation consultation with one of our seafarer tax experts.
Book a free consultation with Theataccounts today - tap the "book my free consultation button" and get started
Book my free consultation
Our FAQ Section aims to provide you with clear and comprehensive answers that help you navigate through any uncertainties you may have.
If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact our accountants.
If you’re a UK resident working at sea, you may qualify for Seafarers Earnings Deduction (SED), allowing you to claim 100% tax relief on foreign earnings if you work outside the UK for 183 days or more within the tax year.
We specialise in helping seafarers secure the maximum deduction available.
01905 70 60 50
.svg){kind=logo}
-02.svg){kind=logo}
