Do I need to register my company for CIS?
If your work counts as construction under the Construction Industry Scheme, yes, you should. Scaffolding is covered when it's part of construction work, though labour-free scaffold hire isn't. CIS covers construction work in the UK, including UK waters up to 12 miles out, so offshore contracts can be different. We'll check each contract with you.
What happens if I'm not registered for CIS?
The contractor paying you must deduct 30% from your invoices instead of 20%. If you qualify for gross payment status, nothing is deducted at all.
Do I lose the money deducted under CIS?
No. For a limited company, CIS deductions are offset against the PAYE and National Insurance your company owes through payroll, and anything left over can be reclaimed. But someone has to set that up and keep track of it. That's part of what we do.
How much should I pay myself each month?
It depends on your income and contracts, but most directors use a mix of a small salary and dividends. Since April 2026, dividend tax rates have gone up to 10.75% (basic rate) and 35.75% (higher rate), and the tax-free dividend allowance is just £500. That's why your pay plan should be reviewed every year. We'll give you a clear monthly figure in writing.
My accountant never explains anything. Can I switch mid-year?
Yes. You can switch at any time. We contact your current accountant, get your records transferred and take it from there.
I've been told I need a limited company for a contract. Do I?
Sometimes it's a genuine requirement of the contract, sometimes it isn't. We'll talk you through your options honestly before you set anything up.
What is IR35 and does it affect me?
IR35 rules look at whether you'd be treated as an employee if you weren't working through your company. For most contracts with medium and large businesses, the client decides your status and tells you. If you're found “inside IR35”, you're taxed much like an employee. We'll explain what your status means for you.
Am I on track for a full state pension?
The full new state pension is £241.30 a week, and you usually need 35 qualifying years of National Insurance to get it. Directors who pay themselves a very low salary, or who've worked abroad, can have gaps. You can often fill gaps from the last six tax years with voluntary contributions (£18.40 a week for 2026/27). We'll check your record with you.
Can my company pay into my pension?
Yes. Company pension contributions are a legitimate way to take value out of your company, and are usually an allowable business expense. The annual allowance is £60,000, including what the company pays in. Pensions can't be accessed until 55 (rising to 57 from April 2028), so it's about getting the balance right for you.
Do you work with contractors outside the UK?
We work with UK clients only.
How much do you charge?
Fixed monthly fees agreed up front. Book a call and we'll give you a quote.
This page is general information, not personal advice. Rules depend on your circumstances; speak to us before acting.
