In today's fast-paced business world, efficiency isn't just a buzzword – it's essential for smart financial management. That's why at Cashtrak, we're always on the lookout for clever software solutions that streamline processes for both us and our clients. One of our absolute favourites, particularly when it comes to managing mileage claims and travel expenses, is Tripcatcher. This intuitive add-on transforms what can often be a tedious and error-prone task into a seamless part of your bookkeeping, embodying our commitment to precise and effective financial services.
Because mileage VAT shouldn’t
be a maths exam.
Let’s be honest: tracking business mileage is one of those necessary evils. You know you should be doing it, but between trying to remember where you went three Tuesdays ago and working out the right VAT to claim, it can feel like a logistical headache you’d rather avoid.
Enter: Tripcatcher.
It’s not just a mileage tracker — it’s a time-saver, money-saver, and VAT genius all in one neat little app.
So, What Does Tripcatcher Actually Do?
Tripcatcher lets you record business journeys quickly and easily from your phone or computer. Just pop in your trip details (or let it auto-track with GPS), and it logs:
Where you went
Why you went there
How far you travelled
What VAT you can claim (automatically!)
Then, with a click, it sends that data straight into Xero or other accounting software. No spreadsheets. No guesswork. No missed claims.
But Isn’t Mileage VAT Simple?
Spoiler alert: it’s not.
Here’s why claiming VAT on mileage is one of the trickiest bits of bookkeeping:
You can’t just claim VAT on fuel — only on the fuel element of mileage, and only if VAT receipts are available.
You need a valid VAT receipt for each claim (and who’s honestly saving those from every petrol stop?)
You have to apply HMRC’s advisory fuel rates, which vary by engine size and fuel type — and they change regularly.
Sound confusing? That’s because it is. And if you get it wrong, you either overclaim and risk a fine, or underclaim and lose money. Lose-lose.
Why We Recommend Tripcatcher to Our Clients at Cashtrak
We love Tripcatcher — and our clients do too — because it:
Works out the correct VAT using HMRC’s latest fuel rates
Allows you to attach receipts or flag when you don’t have one
Keeps your bookkeeping clean and compliant
Syncs beautifully with Xero for stress-free reporting
You get more accurate claims, fewer errors, and no more panicked searches for fuel receipts in the glovebox.
Who’s It For?
Directors reimbursing themselves for travel
Staff claiming mileage expenses
Anyone who drives for business and hates admin
Basically, if you’re racking up miles and don’t want HMRC knocking with questions — this app’s for you.
Final Thought:
Tripcatcher doesn’t just track your trips.
It earns its keep.
With the VAT savings and admin time it cuts down, it more than pays for itself — and keeps your accountant (and HMRC) happy. If you like the sound of getting more money back without a headache, it’s time to give Tripcatcher a go.
Want Help Getting Started?
As part of our service at Cashtrak, we can:
Help you set up Tripcatcher
Link it with Xero
Make sure you’re claiming all the VAT you’re entitled to (and none that you’re not!)
Get in touch with our team today — and let’s take your mileage claims from mayhem to magic.