From April 2023, contractors will once again be able to determine their own IR35 status, since IR35 Reform was repealed in the 2022 Mini-Budget. Most contractors will prefer to work outside IR35, not just to benefit from the tax rates available to businesses, but also to ensure they don’t lose out on money which needs to go towards their pension or the running of their PSC. However, if you find that your contract has you receiving any employee-style benefits or following employee-style rules of the engaging company, you must make an honest determination and declaration of your IR35 status. Reform being repealed isn’t grounds to not comply with IR35 as it can and most definitely will still be enforced.
The following points can help you to determine whether your contract is inside or outside IR35, but if you have any concerns you should speak to your accountant who will have extensive experience of IR35 legisation.
|
Inside IR35 |
Outside IR35 |
Are you paid on the basis of time spent? |
No |
Yes |
Are you given set hours to work? |
Yes |
No |
Are you allowed to supply a substitute to do your work if ill or on holiday? |
No |
Yes |
Do you attend staff parties or meetings? |
Yes |
No |
Is the engaging company telling you how to carry out the work? |
Yes |
No |
Do you supply your own equipment? |
No |
Yes |