Operating through an Umbrella PAYE service being a self-employed worker is an easy and effective way to get paid. Although, this may seem the best way to get paid it could be wise to consider the idea of setting up your own limited company. Here we will explore in detail when you should consider making the transaction.

It may seem complicated, complex and time consuming to set up your own limited company but here are some reasons to start.

Becoming a director

There is a big leap from the financial responsibility from operating through an umbrella contractor to solely running your own company. You will become much more involved with your finances which can allow greater control. It would be much more motivating to work for yourself knowing it is for your own benefit and profit where you govern in and out goings.

Your contract lengths are getting longer 

Contract lengths are a major factor that comes into play when choosing how to operate. For a limited company set up it would be necessary that you hold contracts on 3-months or longer to benefit from setting up your own limited company. If you are currently in this position, it may be the right time to consider this transition.

You may even find that once you have set up your own limited company, employers take you more seriously as a solid professional in the industry.

Prices have gone up

The primary reason to switch to limited from umbrella is so you can reap the benefits of maximising your take home pay. Usually you must be over £15ph or more for it to be worth running your own limited company says one of the senior managers from Bluebird accountancy based in Welwyn Garden City

Therefore, if you are doing well with your services and can afford to put up your prices then it may be the ideal time to start considering the limited company option. Hiring an accountant is also common for contractors to do, as they will take the financial burden off your finances whilst you focus on your skills and completing contracts. They may seem expensive but they are highly knowledgeable on law and legislations they you may not be aware of, if you get any deductions wrong this will fall on your shoulders.

You can potentially have a higher take home pay

It may seem simple operating through an umbrella company as you become an employee of the umbrella company, where all NI and Tax deductions are made accordingly and you are paid via PAYE without much worry or input. To some contractors the limited company option seems more appealing due to the fact that you are able to financially get more in involved and chose how your money is distributed. It allows you to pay yourself through dividends and a salary which will usually increase your take home pay.

 

Long Term Goals

One of the main reasons contractors may not want to set up a limited company is if their unsure about how long they will be contracting for however, if you are looking to grow and expand your skills and company then this is a great way to achieve your long-term goals. Becoming a director of your own limited company will allow you to slowly expand and add staff to your company. You will gain knowledge in the rules and regulations of running a company and dealing with HMRC.

You want to move from the public sector to the private sector

Due to the legislation changes by HMRC in 2017, public sector workers have significantly affected by this as some agencies demand they work through an umbrella company and are not allowed to operate as a limited company says a senior accountant from PWD Builders Woodstock. Public sector workers can no longer determine their own IR35 status to either operate inside or outside IR35, meaning they lose their control and the responsibility falls onto the end client. Due to the uncertainty and high responsibility required by the end client or recruitment agency this has resulted in contractors operating via a limited company all together. It has also become a popular for contractors to move into the private sector due to this legislation change, and will result in potentially receiving more take home pay – it may be wise to consult a IR35 specialist before defining your status.

Claiming Expenses

Becoming a director of your own limited company you are able to claim expenses that can be classed as business related expenses and activities. Therefore, if you have high out goings and travel expenses for your business then it may save you a lot of money in the long run.

Get expert advise

Specialised contractor accountants and PAYE umbrella firms have experts that will provide you with a free consultation to evaluate your situation and your current circumstances. You can be assured when speaking to us you will receive impartial advice tailored to you.

The best part of all, is that you can switch from an to umbrella to limited service free of charge (vice versa). Therefore, whether you are looking to set up for the first time or switch over from umbrella to limited, specialised contractor accountancy firms are happy to discuss your options and clarify for you which option is best for you.