The off-payroll working rules
“We are all in it together” NumberMill are here to support all parties who operate within the contractor supply chain; the contractor, the agency and the end hirer.
Everybody is involved in navigating this complex legislation and although ultimately liability is extended up the chain, the correct and optimum outcome will only be achieved if everyone involved takes on their responsibilities and works together. It isn’t in any ones interest to just push the problem down the chain.
Liability cannot be merely pushed down, nor can it be indemnified against.
FCSA (Freelancer Contracts Service Association)
The FCSA is the only compliance standard operating in the sector which is endorsed by the UK’s largest recruitment bodies; REC, APSCO and TEAM.
Ernst & Young independently audit to a strict code of compliance and a copy of the audit report is sent to HMRC for transparency. NumberMill proudly became an accredited member in 2016 and as such undergo annual audits. End Hirers and recruitment agencies are more often insisting that their intermediary partners are FCSA Accredited.
Agencies and End Hirers may choose to only work with accredited members, thus protecting the entire supply chain and then they can display the Supply Chain Partner badge, reinforcing and differentiating their commitment to compliance.
Contractors should welcome the requirement for their umbrella company to be FCSA Accredited as this will protect them from disguised aggressive tax arrangements which one day will catch up with them.
What is NumberMill’s advice?
NumberMill have undertaken thousands of IR35 assessments and are working with over 800 clients and recruitment agencies, helping them prepare for the IR35 reforms. We have gained significant experience of the Public Sector reforms and this experience is essential in helping us to support the private sector supply chain.
Our Advice is
– Prepare now, don’t leave it too late
– Assess the workforce and the entire supply chain
– Understand the financial implications throughout the supply chain
– Do not allow blanket IR35 assessments
– Engage IR35 assessment professionals
– Ensure evidence records are maintained throughout the chain
– If deemed Inside IR35 choose only FCSA Accredited umbrella companies
– Consider NumberMill’s Fee Payer Protect service