Under IR35, freelancers need to demonstrate that they have undertaken ‘reasonable steps’ to ascertain that their status lies outside of IR35.
Having an IR35 Contract Review undertaken by one of our independent tax experts at Qdos is an excellent means of demonstrating that the relevant advice has been sought. A Contract Review as opposed to a Status Assessment is a far more detailed and comprehensive look into your contract, commenting on each relevant clause, whether it will pass or fail and full reasons why. We will also clearly highlight what you can do to make your contract more IR35 friendly, to hopefully make your contract as robust as possible.
Most contractors are aware that having a compliant contract in place is not enough and for the contract to have any significant bearing your working practices must reflect the contract terms. Our full IR35 contract review can include a review of your working practices for no additional fee. If you would like to include this you simply need to download the Working Practices Questionnaire (during the purchase process) and return it to freelancer@qdoscontractor.com once complete.
Part of our review will also include information on any business insurances that may be contractually required. If your contract does state that such insurance is required, it is important that you obtain the relevant policies so as not to be in breach of contract. From an IR35 perspective this will also demonstrate that you are in business on own account and that you are exposed to financial risks. Where your contract indicates a requirement for business insurances, the report will include an indicative quote.
If your contract is a fail in terms of IR35 and you would like us to liaise with the agency or your client regarding the amendments suggested in our report, please let us know.
Reviews are completed within 3-5 working days of receipt of payment and the necessary information. Upon completion we will send you a written report highlighting both the positive and negative aspects of your contract and working practices along with an opinion on your IR35 status. If, in our opinion your status falls outside of IR35, we recommend that you consider taking out our Tax Liability Cover TLC35 Insurance for total peace of mind.
Please note that you must be a freelancer / contractor in order to benefit from these services. If you are not a freelancer and would like to learn more about the services offered by Qdos, please do not hesitate to contact us.