UK policy comparison

AMAP vs Employer Reimbursement

Understand the gap between HMRC approved mileage amounts and what an employer actually reimburses.

Comparison by MileagePilotUpdated Oct 14, 2026

Where each side fits

What HMRC AMAP tells you

AMAP approved amount
  • AMAP shows the approved benchmark amount for the miles and vehicle type.
  • It is the baseline needed to judge whether relief may exist.
  • It stays aligned to published HMRC mileage guidance.
  • It helps normalize policy comparisons across employers.

What employer reimbursement tells you

Employer reimbursement
  • Employer reimbursement is the amount you were actually paid.
  • It may match, exceed, or fall short of the approved amount.
  • It is the operational input for expense claims and payroll.
  • It is the figure that matters when estimating any shortfall for relief.

Comparison matrix

DimensionAMAP approved amountEmployer reimbursement
Role in the workflowPublished benchmark for the journeyActual company payment outcome
Use in relief analysisSets the ceiling for the approved amountDetermines whether a shortfall exists
SourceHMRC mileage guidanceEmployer policy or payroll records
Best next toolMileage calculatorMileage allowance relief calculator

Decision checklist

  • Do you know the correct vehicle type and tax year?
  • Do you have the actual reimbursement rate or total from your employer?
  • Are you comparing policy fairness or estimating a relief shortfall?
  • Will the same analysis need to be explained to payroll or tax advisers later?

Next steps

Open the calculator, rate guide, or template that matches the side of the comparison you want to act on next.