HMRC & Tax
16 guides in this section
What Expenses Can Builders Claim? The Full List
Expenses you can claim as a self-employed builder. Tools, travel, PPE, mileage and clothing that cut your tax bill.
Read this firstVAT
VAT for Builders: Rates, Rules and the Mistakes That Cost You
VAT for builders explained. Registration thresholds, reduced rates for renovations, and reverse charge rules in one guide.
Flat Rate VAT Scheme: Is It Still Worth It for Builders?
Flat rate VAT scheme for builders and trades. Whether it saves you money or costs you more, with real examples.
Expenses & Allowances
National Insurance & Pensions
National Insurance Gaps: Check Yours Before You Lose Your State Pension
National Insurance gaps and your state pension. How to check your NI record and fill gaps before it costs you thousands.
Auto-Enrolment Pensions: What Employers Must Do by Law
Pension auto-enrolment when you take on your first employee. What the law requires and the fines for getting it wrong.
Staying Out of Trouble
Essential Reading
Self-Assessment for Builders: Your First Tax Return Step by Step
Filing Self Assessment as a construction worker. The deductions you can claim and how to get CIS tax back from HMRC.
VAT Reverse Charge for Construction: The Rule That Confuses Everyone
VAT reverse charge for construction services explained simply. When you charge it, when you don't, and how to invoice.
Self-Assessment Penalties: How Much and How to Avoid Them
Self Assessment penalties from HMRC. What the fines are for late filing and payment, and how to appeal if you have a reason.
Registering as Self-Employed for Construction: Step by Step
How to register as self-employed for construction work in the UK. HMRC steps, deadlines and what you need to get started.
VAT Registration: When You Have No Choice
VAT registration for builders and trades. When you must register, when it makes sense early, and how the threshold works.
HMRC Investigation: What to Do and What Not to Do
Got a letter from HMRC? Types of investigation, your rights, what they can demand, penalties, voluntary disclosure, time limits, and when to get professional help. Plain English.
Do I need to register for CIS as a subcontractor?
You don't have to register for CIS, but if you don't, contractors deduct 30% instead of 20%. Who needs to register, the rates, and how to do it.