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IR35 factors and the importance of ‘control’

Following the implementation of IR35 reform, HMRC has the remit to investigate compliance among businesses and contractors.

When doing so, HMRC typically uses three so-called key tests to establish whether a contract is inside or outside the scope of the rules.

These tests – Personal Service, Mutuality of Obligation (MoO) and Control – are considered the most significant factors in determining whether or not a contract is caught by the IR35 rules.

In this article, Seb Maley, from award-winning IR35 specialist, Qdos, explains why HMRC places such importance on ‘Control’.

‘Control’ is arguably more important than ever

Contractors compliantly operating outside IR35 aren’t usually controlled by their clients. As genuinely self-employed workers, they should have autonomy over how they provide their services – whether that’s the approach taken, or where, when and how these services are delivered.

Granted, it’s not always black and white. For instance, some contractors – often those working in financial services – may be constrained to working certain hours or from certain locations as a security measure.

Control over ‘what’ a contractor is doing

Outside of the specific circumstances detailed above, control is a spectrum. At the extreme end, contractors may be subject to constant supervision, monitoring, checking and appraisal; treated, in short, as an employee.

At the other end, a contractor has complete freedom – subject only to the final delivery and acceptance of the services.

In the real world, this means flexibility over times and days of attendance when not working from a place of your choice, and providing specialist skills that the client’s staff do not have. Scoping a project and setting deliverables and milestones yourself is another hallmark of contractors holding control.

Essentially, the more control an end-client holds, the stronger the case for a contract belonging inside IR35. The reverse is also true; the more control a contractor has, the more likely it is to fall outside the clutches of the legislation.

As such, contractors should remain in control of the ‘what’, as well as in charge of determining how, where and when they work, to avoid being caught by IR35.

Further information

Protect yourself against an HMRC IR35 investigation

Award-winning Qdos IR35 insurance – from just £99 per year. Covers £50,000 of legal costs + outstanding tax liabilities if you opt for TLC35. Contract review service also available.

Last updated: 12th August 2023