Status depends on the real working relationship, not the job title or what the contract says. Three key factors are control (who decides how, when and where you work), substitution (whether you can send a suitably skilled replacement) and mutuality of obligation (whether the client must offer, and you must accept, further work). HMRC's CEST tool can help, but it is not the final word, so an expert review of your contract and working practices gives you a much more reliable answer.

Not if you trade as a sole trader. You register with HMRC for Self Assessment instead. You only register with Companies House if you set up a limited company. Many IT contractors choose a limited company because of the tax planning options and liability protection, but it brings extra filing duties such as annual accounts, a confirmation statement and corporation tax returns.

HMRC charges an initial £100 penalty for a late Self Assessment return, even if you owe no tax. After three months, daily penalties of £10 a day can build up to £900. After six months and again after twelve months, a further penalty of 5% of the tax due or £300 (whichever is greater) applies. Late payment penalties and interest are charged separately. Contact us as early as possible and we will help you file and, where appropriate, appeal.

Yes. We check whether you need to register (or would benefit from doing so voluntarily), submit the registration to HMRC, advise on the Flat Rate Scheme versus standard VAT accounting, and prepare and file your VAT returns through Making Tax Digital-compatible software.

HMRC may open an enquiry and ask for contracts, invoices and evidence of how you actually work. If they conclude you were inside IR35, you could face backdated Income Tax and National Insurance, interest and penalties. Our IR35 specialists prepare your documentation, handle correspondence with HMRC and represent you through the dispute, so you are not facing it alone.

Your secure, mobile-friendly dashboard shows your accounts, HMRC and Companies House filing status, upcoming deadlines and an IR35 status tracker for each contract. You can upload and download documents such as contracts, Status Determination Statements and payslips, message your dedicated accountant or IR35 advisor, and receive reminders before deadlines and contract renewals.