Using an umbrella and CEST

[rootsnall]

I have been using an umbrella for the past year. Client Co just sent me an email to say I have to do a CEST assessment to get renewed beyond April 2021. I have replied to say I am using an umbrella and it doesn't apply to me. What is the proper route for the Client Co to know they are in the clear IR35 wise !? Is it as simple as the agent informing Client Co that they are sending my money to an umbrella.

[ladymuck]

Or, spend 5 minutes doing CEST?

You're right in that it doesn't apply as you're already paying "the right amount of tax" but it's hardly anything worth having a bun fight over.

[rootsnall]

I was going to suggest I just fill it in but thought I'd check with th'experts before I signed up for a go direct to jail card :-) (when did this new Font come in, I don't like change ). The other thing is I wouldn't want to stuff up my fellow contractors still using a Ltd at Client Co with my answers.

[northernladuk]

I expect they are doing it because they have to carry out a determination on the ROLE. This isn't about the individual contractors circumstances.

Totally incorrect of them to get the contractor to do it though. The contractor will just answer what they think and not what the client intends just as we do already.

[rootsnall]

The contractor will just answer what they think and not what the client intends just as we do already.

Should that not be just keep filling it in until it says IR35 does not apply.

[rootsnall]

All resolved after a few emails. No requirement for me to do a CEST. I had been on the Ltd contractors list by mistake. I think an ar*e covering exercise by the agency rather than by Client Co. Happy days.