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Accountant for Contractors UK
IR35 Off Payroll Working Tax Specialists
Our specialist accountants for contractors in the UK provide tailored tax advice, efficient compliance, and support with IR35, VAT, and self-assessments. We simplify regulations, reduce stress, and help contractors achieve favourable outcomes with confidence.
Get Expert Accounting Services for UK Contractors
Specialist UK Contractor Accountants
Specialist UK contractor accountants provide tailored tax and accounting services designed to support freelancers, contractors, and limited companies. Our expert team helps you comply with IR35 rules, file Limited Company returns, manage VAT, and complete self-assessment. We ensure you stay fully aligned with HMRC regulations. Our approach saves time and money, reducing stress. Contractor accounting services are available to all sectors, helping you understand your finances and stay compliant.
IR35 Risk Assessment and Contract Reviews
IR35 risk assessments and contract reviews are essential for contractors to determine their employment status and ensure compliance with HMRC regulations. Our specialist accountants analyse contracts, working practices, and client relationships to identify risks and offer clear guidance. This helps contractors avoid tax disputes and protect their take-home pay. Our efficient and cost-effective IR35 review service is accessible to freelancers, contractors, and limited companies across the UK.
Do you need help with your Tax Return Filling?
Schedule a free 30‑minute consultation to discuss your personal tax compliance.
Whether you need help with simple tax returns or complex issues, we’ve designed our service to ensure you feel supported, informed, and in control every step of the way.
Get expert tax advice without visiting an office. Our virtual consultations can review, plan, and resolve your tax matters.
Book a consultation with a tax expert to identify any issues and receive the most effective strategy for future compliance.
Appointments can be scheduled online, by phone, or in person with a tax advisor. Contact our office to discuss your needs and next steps.
The values we live by
Honesty guides everything we do. We believe in transparent advice, accurate reporting, and doing what’s right for our clients every time.
We live and breathe tax. Our expert team delivers up-to-date, accurate advice so clients stay compliant, efficient, and ahead of the curve.
Every client matters. We take time to listen, understand your needs, and deliver personalised tax solutions with care and attention to detail.
OUR SERVICES
Our Practice Areas
We are a team of specialist tax advisors who are delivering expert guidance on tax compliance, international tax, HMRC investigations, business structuring, capital gains, inheritance tax, corporation tax and self assessment services.
We know personal taxes can be overwhelming. With us, your returns are accurate, on time, and tailored to your unique life.
We know running a business is hard enough. Let us handle your business taxes so you can focus on growth with confidence.
We know smart planning makes a difference. Our tax strategies help you stay compliant, save more, and plan for the future.
We know living abroad brings tax challenges. Whether in or out of the UK, we make your expat taxes smooth and stress-free
We know HMRC enquiries can be daunting. Count on us for expert support and peace of mind during your tax investigation.
We know unfair tax bills cause stress. If you disagree with HMRC, we’ll guide your tax appeal with precision and confidence.
We are leading network of qualified accountants, tax advisors and specialist business consultants in United Kingdom
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To your situation
Your Questions - Our Answers
We are here to help you with any questions you may have
Why do contractors in the UK need specialist accountants?
Being a contractor in the UK offers freedom and flexibility, but it also comes with complex tax responsibilities. Unlike traditional employees, contractors must handle IR35 rules, CIS deductions, VAT registration, and self-assessment returns—all while running their day-to-day business.
That’s why specialist contractor accountants are essential. They understand the unique challenges contractors face, from verifying whether you fall inside or outside IR35, to ensuring your CIS deductions are accurate and that you’re not overpaying HMRC.
At Tax Accountant, we offer customised services tailored specifically for contractors. Whether you work through a limited company, umbrella company, or as a freelancer, we handle all aspects of compliance. This includes bookkeeping, VAT returns, payroll, and IR35 contract reviews. For example, one of our contractor clients was unsure whether their contract fell inside IR35. We reviewed the agreement, clarified their employment status, and structured their payments to minimise tax liability in a legally compliant manner.
The primary advantage of working with a contractor accountant is the peace of mind it provides. You focus on your contracts and projects, while we make sure the taxman is satisfied. We also help you plan strategically, ensuring you don’t just stay compliant, but also maximise take-home pay.
How do you support contractors with IR35 compliance?
IR35 is one of the biggest concerns for contractors in the UK. It determines whether HMRC sees you as genuinely self-employed or as an employee for tax purposes. If you’re classed as “inside IR35,” you could face higher Income Tax and National Insurance.
At Tax Accountant, we specialise in IR35 risk assessments and contract reviews. We analyse your working arrangements, including the wording of your contracts, your relationship with clients, and your working practices. For example, if you work like an employee—taking instructions, set hours, and using client equipment—HMRC may argue you’re “inside IR35.” But if you’re in control, use your own tools, and can send a substitute, you’re more likely “outside IR35.”
Our accountants provide clear reports that show your IR35 status and advise on adjustments to minimise risks. We also support contractors facing HMRC IR35 investigations, ensuring you have expert representation. This service isn’t just about avoiding penalties—it’s about protecting your take-home pay. Many contractors lose thousands of pounds each year because they fail to receive IR35 advice in a timely manner.
What services do you provide for contractors under CIS?
The Construction Industry Scheme (CIS) adds another layer of complexity for contractors and subcontractors. Under CIS, contractors are required to deduct tax from subcontractors’ payments and remit it to HMRC. Subcontractors often end up overpaying and need refunds.
At Tax Accountant, we handle both sides:
- For contractors: we register with HMRC, verify subcontractors, calculate deductions, and submit monthly CIS returns to avoid penalties.
- For subcontractors: we register to reduce deductions from 30% to 20%, prepare tax returns, and claim CIS refunds where tax has been overpaid.
For example, a subcontractor earning £35,000 with expenses may have had £7,000 deducted through CIS. After filing their return, their actual liability might be £4,500—meaning a £2,500 refund. We also help contractors integrate CIS with payroll and VAT so their financial records are accurate and HMRC-compliant.
How can contractor accountants help with VAT?
VAT can be a headache for contractors, especially those crossing the £90,000 VAT threshold (as of 2024). Contractors are required to register, charge VAT, submit quarterly returns, and maintain accurate records of their transactions. At Tax Accountant, we simplify VAT for contractors. We:
- Assess whether VAT registration is right for you.
- Manage VAT registration with HMRC.
- Submit quarterly VAT returns.
- Advice on schemes like the Flat Rate Scheme, which can save contractors money.
For example, a contractor charging £100,000 in fees could keep more profit under the Flat Rate Scheme compared to standard VAT rules. We assess which scheme fits best and handle the admin.
VAT also interacts with CIS. On invoices, CIS is calculated on labour excluding VAT. Many contractors get this wrong, and as a result, they face disputes. We ensure that your VAT and CIS are properly aligned.
Do you help contractors with self-assessment tax returns?
Contractors are required to file self-assessment tax returns annually, declaring their income, expenses, and CIS or IR35 deductions. Mistakes lead to fines or missed refunds. At Tax Accountant, we:
- Prepare and file self-assessments accurately.
- Include CIS deductions for subcontractors to claim refunds.
- Ensure IR35 adjustments are reflected correctly.
- Claim all allowable expenses, from travel to software.
For example, a contractor who paid £10,000 in CIS deductions but had £3,000 in expenses might only owe £7,000 in tax. We ensure HMRC sees the full picture, often resulting in refunds.
We also keep you on time. Filing late, even by a day, results in a £100 fine, with additional penalties incurred monthly.
How do you support contractors with payroll and expenses?
Managing payroll and expenses can be complicated for contractors, especially if you employ staff or run through a limited company.
At Tax Accountant, we offer comprehensive payroll management services. This includes processing salaries, handling PAYE, calculating National Insurance, and issuing payslips. We also advise contractors on allowable expenses. For example:
- Travel between contracts.
- Equipment and software.
- Accountancy fees.
- Home office costs.
Claiming these correctly reduces your taxable profit. Many contractors miss out simply because they are unaware of what they can claim. We also integrate payroll with CIS and VAT, ensuring everything aligns seamlessly.
What happens if HMRC investigates my contractor accounts?
HMRC investigations can be stressful, but with the right accountant, they can be managed effectively. At Tax Accountant, we represent contractors during HMRC enquiries. This includes:
- Reviewing your accounts for errors.
- Communicating directly with HMRC on your behalf.
- Defending your IR35 status if challenged.
- Negotiating to reduce penalties where possible.
For example, a contractor client was fined for late CIS returns. We appealed, explained mitigating circumstances, and successfully reduced the penalty. Investigations are serious, but they don’t have to derail your business. With professional support, you can resolve them quickly and protect your reputation.
How do contractor accountants help maximise take-home pay?
Contractors often worry about how much of their income goes to tax. With the right planning, you can significantly increase your take-home pay. At Tax Accountant, we:
- Structure your business efficiently (sole trader vs limited company).
- Advise on tax-efficient salaries and dividends.
- Claim allowable expenses correctly.
- Reduce CIS and IR35 liabilities through strategic planning and risk management.
For example, one contractor working through a limited company saved thousands by adjusting the balance between salary and dividends. Another reclaimed overpaid CIS deductions, boosting cash flow.
We also provide proactive tax planning, looking ahead to make sure future contracts, property sales, or business exits are tax-efficient.
What’s the difference between a regular accountant and a contractor accountant?
A regular accountant can handle general tax matters, but contractors face unique rules like IR35, CIS, and VAT complexities. Many standard accountants don’t specialise in these areas. A contractor accountant, such as those at Tax Accountant, focuses specifically on the needs of contractors. We know how to:
- Interpret IR35 contracts.
- Manage CIS deductions and refunds.
- Structure payments for maximum efficiency.
- Handle sector-specific HMRC requirements.
It’s like the difference between a GP and a specialist doctor—you want someone who truly understands your situation.
Why choose Tax Accountant for contractor accounting services in the UK?
Because contractors deserve more than generic tax advice—they need specialist support tailored to their industry. At Tax Accountant, we offer:
- IR35 contract reviews.
- CIS registration, returns, and refunds.
- VAT registration and filing.
- Self-assessment tax return support.
- Payroll and expenses management.
- HMRC investigation defence.
Our mission is straightforward: to help contractors in the UK stay compliant, reduce their tax liabilities, and increase their take-home pay.