Accountants for Contractors and Freelancers
Contracting brings its own tax questions, from IR35 to how you pay yourself. We'll match you with a local accountant who specialises in contractors.
IR35 and the off-payroll working rules
IR35 decides whether a contract should be taxed like employment. If you work through your own limited company for a medium or large client, the client decides your IR35 status and must give you a Status Determination Statement. For small clients, your own company makes the call. An accountant can review your contracts and working practices and explain what each outcome means for your take-home pay.
Find a contractor accountant near you
Free, no obligation, and it takes about two minutes.
Limited company or umbrella?
Outside IR35, running your own limited company usually leaves you with more of your income, but you're responsible for the company's accounts, filings and taxes. Inside IR35, many contractors use an umbrella company instead. A contractor accountant can compare the two for your day rate.
What contractor accountants usually include
- Company accounts and corporation tax return
- Director payroll and your personal tax return
- VAT returns, including checking whether the Flat Rate Scheme still suits you
- Advice on expenses, pensions and paying yourself
- Help when you finish contracting, such as closing the company
Contractor questions
How much does a contractor accountant cost?
Most charge a fixed monthly fee, often from around £90 to £180 a month, covering company accounts, payroll, VAT and your personal tax return.
Can an accountant tell me if I'm inside IR35?
They can review your contract and working practices and give an opinion, and some offer contract reviews or insurance. For medium and large clients, the client makes the formal decision.
Tell us what you need
Answer a few quick questions and we'll pass your enquiry to a local accountancy firm that covers your area. It's free and there's no obligation.
- Usually a reply within one working day
- One local firm, not a flood of calls
- You decide whether to go ahead
Other ways an accountant can help
Self Assessment tax returns
Get your tax return done right and on time, with every allowance and expense claimed.
Sole trader accountants
Accounts, tax returns and expenses for the self-employed, plus help with Making Tax Digital.
Limited company accountants
Year-end accounts, corporation tax, director pay planning and Companies House filings.
VAT returns
VAT registration, the right VAT scheme and quarterly returns filed through Making Tax Digital.
Making Tax Digital
Software, digital records and quarterly updates sorted for sole traders and landlords.