Advisory fuel rates for company cars

New company car advisory fuel rates have been published to take effect from 1 September 2013. HMRC's website states:

'These rates apply to all journeys on or after 1 September 2013 until further notice. For one month from the date of change, employers may use either the previous or new current rates, as they choose. Employers may therefore make or require supplementary payments if they so wish, but are under no obligation to do either.'

The advisory fuel rates for journeys undertaken on or after 1 September 2013 are:

Engine size Petrol LPG
1400cc or less 15p 10p
1401cc - 2000cc 18p (17p) 11p (12p)
Over 2000cc 26p (25p) 16p (18p)
Engine size Diesel
1600cc or less 12p
1601cc - 2000cc 15p (14p)
Over 2000cc 18p

Please note that not all of the rates have been amended, so care must be taken to apply the correct rate. The amounts for the previous quarter are shown in brackets where the rate has been amended.  

Other points to be aware of about the advisory fuel rates:

  • Employers do not need a dispensation to use these rates.
  • Employees driving employer provided cars are not entitled to use these rates to claim tax relief if employers reimburse them at lower rates. Such claims should be based on the actual costs incurred.
  • The advisory rates are not binding where an employer can demonstrate that the cost of business travel in employer provided cars is higher than the guideline mileage rates. The higher cost would need to be agreed with HMRC under a dispensation.

If you would like to discuss your car policy, please contact us.

Internet link: HMRC advisory fuel rates