IR35

Accounting for IT contractors can feel overwhelming, especially with IR35, VAT rules, and different business structures to navigate. This guide breaks everything down in simple, practical terms, - whether you're deciding between sole trader and limited company, figuring out allowable expenses, or managing multiple client contracts. It highlights how HMRC determines employment status, why recordkeeping matters, and how legal structures shape your tax position. We also explore how IR35 affects take-home pay, when umbrella companies make sense, and what steps help you stay compliant while maximising income. Real examples, clear explanations, and practical tips throughout the guide help contractors avoid common mistakes and operate confidently. Whether you're new to contracting or looking to optimise your setup, this resource gives you the clarity you need to run your business smoothly.

Choosing the right structure can make a huge difference to your take-home pay, tax efficiency, and workload. This comprehensive guide breaks down the pros and cons of umbrella companies and limited companies, explores IR35 implications, and offers real-world examples from contractors who’ve navigated the choice. Whether you’re starting out or looking to optimise your contracting career, learn how to make the decision that suits your goals, contracts, and lifestyle.

Confused about IR35? You’re not alone. In this in-depth 2025 guide, we break down what IR35 really means for UK contractors — from understanding inside vs outside IR35, to how it affects your take-home pay, expenses, and tax. You’ll learn who IR35 applies to, how to protect yourself from HMRC investigations, and how to plan your contracts with confidence. Written by the experts at Zeus Accountants, this guide gives you clear, actionable insights to stay compliant while maximising your earnings.

Inside IR35 doesn’t have to mean the end of your contracting freedom. In this practical, jargon-free guide, we break down what it really means to be caught inside IR35, how it affects your tax, your rights, and your next contract. With real-life stories, tips on expenses, and actionable advice, this is your go-to resource for surviving and thriving inside IR35.

Working through an umbrella company is common for UK contractors and agency workers, but it’s important to understand how they operate. Let's consider what umbrella companies are, how PAYE and tax compliance work, and what warning signs to watch out for. Stay informed to protect your pay, rights, and avoid unexpected tax liabilities.

In this blog post, we review the recent case of Robson v Revenue and Customs on employment status, highlighting valuable lessons for businesses and contractors engaging in similar arrangements.