Tax code 1263L explained
Slightly higher allowance — usually flat-rate expenses like uniform. Here's exactly what it means for your payslip in 2026/27, who should have it, and what to do if it looks wrong.
What 1263L means
1263L gives you a tax-free allowance of £12,630 — £60 more than standard. That £60 is almost always the flat-rate expense allowance for maintaining a work uniform.
Who gets 1263L?
Employees who claim flat-rate job expenses — most commonly the £60/year uniform maintenance allowance. Nurses, police, retail staff with branded clothing, and tradespeople often have this or larger flat-rate codes (some trades get up to £140).
What you'd pay on 1263L
| Salary | Income tax | Take-home* | vs standard 1257L |
|---|---|---|---|
| £22,000 | £1,874 | £19,372 | +£12 |
| £30,000 | £3,474 | £25,132 | +£12 |
| £40,000 | £5,474 | £32,332 | +£12 |
| £55,000 | £9,408 | £42,481 | +£24 |
| £80,000 | £19,408 | £56,981 | +£24 |
*After income tax and employee National Insurance, 2026/27 rates, England/Wales/NI bands.
What you should do
If you wear a uniform or protective clothing you wash yourself and you're still on 1257L, you may be missing out — claim online at GOV.UK (search "uniform tax rebate", it's free — avoid paid claim firms). Claims can be backdated four years.
Frequently asked questions
What does tax code 1263L mean?
Slightly higher allowance — usually flat-rate expenses like uniform. 1263L gives you a tax-free allowance of £12,630 — £60 more than standard. That £60 is almost always the flat-rate expense allowance for maintaining a work uniform.
Is tax code 1263L wrong?
If you wear a uniform or protective clothing you wash yourself and you're still on 1257L, you may be missing out — claim online at GOV.UK (search "uniform tax rebate", it's free — avoid paid claim firms). Claims can be backdated four years.
Who gets tax code 1263L?
Employees who claim flat-rate job expenses — most commonly the £60/year uniform maintenance allowance. Nurses, police, retail staff with branded clothing, and tradespeople often have this or larger flat-rate codes (some trades get up to £140).