Does IR35 affect ME is the question we see asked more than any other. Often the truth is that it depends on your specific circumstances, but the short version is is very likely yes.

IR35 is something that every independent worker in the UK has to familiarise themselves with.  The Tax implications for working under an assignment that is either inside or outside of IR35 can be huge.  In April 2021 the burden of making that decision changes and if you are a contractor who relies on an agency to source positions within medium to large private sector enterprises you will very likely find yourself in a position where your contract is judged to be inside IR35.  From being in a position of operating a PSC with a return on contract value of around 70% you may find yourself looking to the services of an Umbrella Company, complete with Employer/Employee NI and PAYE implications.  It is essential you shop around to find the best rates (We at Quad Management have a fixed £15 fee).

If you are lucky enough to have your assignment adjudged outside of IR35 then your options remain more flexible and as stated above the returns can be higher, but again this is not a decision for you to make but you must familiarise yourself with how that decision is made.  So does IR35 affect me?  If you are an independent worker in the UK then the answer is YES.

For more help with your IR35 situation please see our Guide To IR35