Contract inside or outside the IR35

[Devlin]

But, do you guys even bother asking the agent whether the contract is inside or outside?

They must have a fair idea?

Even some of the most reputable agents don't have a clue about what IR35 actually is, most of them rely on the likes of Lawspeed, etc. to give them a standard contract. If they are aware that it exists that is a good sign imo.

I always make a point of saying that my rate assumes their contract is outside IR35 so at least if they do have a clue they won't just try and palm off some contract on me that is just easiest for them!

[JohannM]

Not all of the answer though. It doesn't apply becuase you are paying full PAYE/NICs anyway so there's no point in looking at IR35. However if your contract is justificably outside IR35, you will be spending all that tax for no real reason. Even inside IR35, you get a marginally better return with your own company, since accountants fees are usually cheaper than Umbrellas, and you don't have all that pratting around with holiday pay retention and so on.

So the best is to go LTD instead of with an umbrella right? I was reading that some companies set you up with everything you need, and also take care of your accounts.

Am reading through the other forum to find some good companies like these. Any suggestions?

[oracleslave]

So the best is to go LTD instead of with an umbrella right? I was reading that some companies set you up with everything you need, and also take care of your accounts.

Am reading through the other forum to find some good companies like these. Any suggestions?

try the accountants directory on here

[Bluebird]

So the best is to go LTD instead of with an umbrella right? I was reading that some companies set you up with everything you need, and also take care of your accounts.

Am reading through the other forum to find some good companies like these. Any suggestions?

SJD & Nixon Williams get recommended here quite a lot.

But don't forget - running your own company involves more than if you go through an umbrella.

If you are outside of IR35 [ and to a certain extent inside ] there are financial rewards - but you have to do a bit of the work yourself as well.

[Robwg]

Use an Umbrella for first three months if nwe to contracting to see if you like the lifestyle and it fits in with your way of life.

After that - go for a ltd - whether inside IR35 or outside.

That would be my advice.