The uncertainty of IR35...

With the implementation of IR35 only 8 weeks away, thousands of contractors are left without guidance on how the legislation will not only impact them but also which steps they need to take to abide by the IR35 rules.

After speaking with tens of contractors from different industries within the private sector, they are uncertain on how they should move forward, with their current employers not giving any guidance or instruction - not because they don't want to but because they are also uncertain on what steps they need to take first.

We all get up in the morning and make our commutes to work in order to be able to make an income and provide for our families or our lifestyles and when that income is in jeopardy, what do we do? Where do we turn? Who do we ask for advice?

After working within education recruitment for the best part of a decade, I remember very clearly how IR35 impacted the public sector and the difference in earnings for our temporary workers were substantial.

The harsh reality of how detrimental IR35 was to our public sector workers really showed and at the time I couldn't believe it!

I didn't understand why the people that were working long hours within our hospitals, ensuring we were looked after when we were sick and also schools, making sure that our children received an education, were being penalised when no other sector was!

So fast-forwarding to 2020 with IR35 weeks away from impacting contractors within the private sector, I asked myself - "What is anyone doing to support these contractors?".

Whilst most contractors will see a difference in earnings, what can anyone do to help that shortfall? What can be done to take the sting out?

After hours of research, meetings and tax calculations, I am proud to announce that together with our Finance Director and our Payroll Director; Mallie Associates Ltd has created a solution that not only reduces the loss in earnings but also gives our contractors the same benefits of permanent employees which includes; statutory sick pay, maternity/paternity pay, professional indemnity insurance, access to a workplace pension as well as retail, dining and travel discounts!

If you are an employer looking at a way of remaining compliant and keeping your contractors happy or you are a contractor looking to maximise your take-home pay and benefits please contact me on [email protected] or alternatively, send me a message on LinkedIn!