Navigating Off-Payroll Working Rules

The IR35 legislation is designed to combat 'disguised employment', ensuring that contractors who work like employees pay similar taxes. Getting your status wrong can lead to crippling back-taxes and penalties. We provide clarity in this confusing landscape by assessing your engagements against the key tests of employment status, helping you understand whether you fall inside or outside the IR35 rules.

Detailed Contractual Analysis

The starting point for any IR35 defence is a robust written contract. We meticulously review your agency or client contracts, examining clauses related to control, substitution, and mutuality of obligation. We identify terms that may be interpreted as indicators of employment and recommend specific amendments to ensure the contract accurately reflects a genuine business-to-business relationship.

Reviewing Working Practices

HMRC looks beyond the written contract to the reality of how the work is performed. Our service includes a comprehensive review of your day-to-day working practices. We advise you on how to interact with clients, manage your own schedule, and supply your own equipment to reinforce your independence. This holistic approach ensures that your actual working arrangements align with your contractual terms.

Status Determination Support

For contractors working with medium or large private sector clients, the responsibility for determining status lies with the client. We support you in challenging incorrect Status Determination Statements (SDS) by providing professional evidence and technical arguments. Our expertise empowers you to have informed conversations with end-clients and agencies regarding your tax status.

Defence in the Event of Enquiry

Should HMRC launch an enquiry into your tax status, having a professional review on file is a vital part of your defence. We stand by our clients, handling correspondence with tax authorities and arguing your case based on case law and legislation. Our ongoing support gives you the confidence to operate as a limited company contractor, knowing that your compliance is being managed by specialists.