sector · contractors & cis

Tax-efficient setups for the way you actually work.

Specialist accountants for IT contractors, construction subcontractors, and freelancers — IR35, CIS, Ltd vs umbrella, and tax planning sorted.

What you face

  • Confusion around IR35 and which contracts are inside or outside
  • Choosing between Ltd, umbrella, and sole trader
  • CIS deductions that erode cash flow for construction subcontractors
  • Making the most of dividends + salary mix as a Ltd contractor
  • Pension planning when you're outside the typical employer scheme

How we help

  • IR35 contract reviews and risk assessment
  • Ltd vs umbrella comparison with real numbers
  • Full Ltd company package: accounts, payroll, dividends, returns
  • CIS subcontractor refunds and gross payment status
  • SIPP and personal pension strategy to match dividend income
  • Mortgage references for Ltd contractors

Contracting is great when the setup is right and a tax minefield when it isn’t. We’ve worked with hundreds of contractors across IT, engineering, healthcare locum, finance, and construction, so we know the playbook.

Our typical contractor package includes a Ltd company with full accounts, monthly payroll for your salary, dividend planning, your annual Self-Assessment, and unlimited support — all for a fixed monthly fee. We’ll also do the IR35 review on every new contract, so you don’t end up the wrong side of HMRC.

Common questions

Should I go Ltd or umbrella?

Outside-IR35 contracts: Ltd is usually 5–10% more tax-efficient. Inside-IR35 contracts: umbrella is often cleaner because the agency or end client is paying you as employed anyway. We'll model both for your actual numbers.

What is CIS and how does it work?

Construction Industry Scheme — contractors deduct 20% (or 30% if unregistered) from your invoice and pay it to HMRC. You then claim it back when you file your tax return. We can apply for gross payment status if you qualify, so you get paid in full.

How do I prove my income to a mortgage lender?

Lenders typically want 1–2 years of accounts and SA302s. We provide accountant's references and structure your dividends to support borrowing capacity. We work regularly with contractor-friendly lenders.