We all like to get a return on our investments – a return that leaves us with the satisfying feeling of having received value for money. But what about umbrella companies? It’s no secret that limited company contractors who are told they’re inside IR35 are likely to see a reduction …
Are there any benefits to using an umbrella company? » Read the full story
A majority of umbrella companies are compliant, but it only takes one or two non-compliant providers to come to light to give the marketplace a bad name. Well, it’s happened again. And it’s really annoyed us. We’re not going to announce the names of the irresponsible providers that are responsible, …
A report published on the 26th November 2020 by HMRC discusses marketed tax avoidance schemes, and it makes for some fascinating reading. Entitled ‘Use of marketed tax avoidance schemes in the UK’, HMRC cover the size of the UK’s tax avoidance market, promoters of tax avoidance schemes, and what HMRC …
Changes to off-payroll in the private sector were scheduled to roll out in April 2020. However, after one of the most stressful and unpredictable years of all time, the amendments were put on hold for 12 months (Coronavirus pandemic). Despite a few rumours that the legislation changes will be postponed …
We are not here to antagonise anyone, especially umbrella companies that are committed to operating compliantly. However, we recently came across an article that grabbed our attention – for the wrong reasons. The article in question suggests that a margin up to £30 per week for an umbrella company is …
£30 a week for an umbrella company margin? No thanks! » Read the full story
Off-payroll in the public sector came into effect a few years ago now, and the impact on the temporary workforce has been massive. Hats off to all the public sector organisations that took the legislation seriously and had reliable and efficient IR35 assessment protocols in place. Unfortunately, loads of companies …
Hopefully a fair world awaits contractors after April 2021 » Read the full story
Self employed? Working alone or in a small business? We kind of envy you. While of course, we relish our days here at UCHQ, the daily commute and the minutiae of being news desk boss at such an esteemed publication, it isn’t all fun and games. The job comes with …
Top Cities for Small Businesses Revealed » Read the full story
So, you may have noticed that we’ve not written much about the new intern these past few weeks here at UCHQ. She’s still here, leaving on the dot of 5 o’clock and pretending to research things on her phone (coincidentally, we’re not on Instagram, where we spot her frequently browsing). …
Freelancing – a Den of Inequality and Exploitation? » Read the full story
News is reaching us here at a rainy UCHQ that the Government may be set for a few more fireworks than even Guy Fawkes managed way back in 1605. Voice of many, Contractor UK, has summoned the troops in the form of a group of other contractor allies, and has …
Another Month, Another IR35 Twist in the Tail » Read the full story
If you are self employed and aged between 25 and 40, then get ready for a shock, because you might be working for longer than you think.
There is a new HMRC VIP line reserved for the rich and famous. If you qualify, then you jump the queue and get right through.
Have you ever wondered what is the best city for contractors and freelancers? Well, you are in the right place, because right here we have the answer.
Financial disaster is on the horizon for 2 out of 5 self employed people. The reason? Because they have no pension.
Thousands of contractors around the country are preparing for a battle. Who is the enemy? It’s those pesky blanketers, of course.
Something we have mentioned on this blog quite a bit is AI…robots…”The Machines.” Why? Because they are expected to take over.
Working for yourself is a great experience. You are the boss. What isn’t great is when you don’t get paid. Nobody likes that.
