Individuals providing services through a PSC (Personal Service Company) will shortly be under greater scrutiny as a result of the IR35 Reforms.
Proving that you run a legitimate business will be increasingly beneficial as the responsibility for determining a contractor’s IR35 status will transfer to the end-client. Many independent workers fear that their clients, irrespective of the fact these are fairly substantial companies, do not have astorng enough grasp of the IR35 legislation to make well-informed decisions regarding tax status and will instead prioritise “inside IR35” determinations to protect the liability they will often carry.
Whilst not a definitive factor, demonstrating you operate as a legitimate business will demonstrate to clients and, if required, HMRC, that your company is not a vehicle to disguide employment.
Practical steps you can take include:
- taking out business insurance
- having your own office address
- company website
- company stationary
- company certification
PQS offers the simplest, fastest, and lowest priced means of achieving Health & Safety Approval with an SSIP Registered Member Scheme. For individuals, personal service companies, and small businesses with less than 5 personnel, the assessment fee is £95 plus VAT.
The assessment adopts a proportionate approach and you will benefit from a simpler assessment than larger businesses. You will have the benefit of accessing the free resources and templates available to assist your demonstration of a legitimate business with independent approval.
Other specialist modules will also shortly be available for PQS Approval, including Quality, Environment, and Equality.
You can sign up here for the PQS SSIP Scheme.