Accountants who
understand
construction
CIS deductions, subcontractor verification, monthly returns, gross payment status — we handle the complexity so you can focus on the build. Working directly with Ben Brophy ACA, not a junior passed off as your account manager.
19th
CIS return deadline — monthly
£100+
Penalty for a late return
10+ years
Qualified accountant with hands-on construction sector experience
ICAEW Member Firm | CIS Monthly Returns | Subcontractor Verification | Gross Payment Status Applications
What We Handle
Construction accounting, done properly
From sole trader subbies to multi-site contractors, we manage the full CIS lifecycle and keep you compliant with HMRC — without the jargon.
📋
CIS Monthly Returns
We prepare and file your monthly contractor returns to HMRC by the 19th — on time, every time. Never miss a deadline or trigger a penalty again.
✅
Subcontractor Verification
We verify your subcontractors with HMRC before any payment is made, confirming the correct deduction rate — 30%, 20%, or 0% — for each individual.
🏆
Gross Payment Status
Eligible contractors can apply to receive payments without deductions. We assess your eligibility and manage the application process from start to finish.
💰
CIS Deduction Reclaims
Subcontractors often overpay through deductions during the year. We reclaim what’s owed via your Self Assessment or Corporation Tax return efficiently.
🏗️
Limited Company Setup
Thinking of incorporating your construction business? We advise on the right structure, handle Companies House registration, and manage the transition compliantly.
📊
Bookkeeping & VAT
Construction-specific bookkeeping including the Domestic Reverse Charge (DRC) for VAT — a common trap that catches many contractors out.
How CIS Works
The Construction Industry Scheme
explained simply
CIS requires contractors to deduct money from subcontractor
payments and pass it to HMRC. It sounds straightforward. The
compliance requirements are anything but.
Register as a contractor or subcontractor
Anyone who pays subcontractors for construction work must register as a CIS contractor with HMRC before making the first payment.
Verify every subcontractor
Before paying, contractors must verify each subcontractor with HMRC to confirm the correct deduction rate — 30%, 20%, or 0%.
Make deductions and pay HMRC
Deduct the verified rate from the labour element of each payment. Materials are excluded. Deductions are paid to HMRC monthly.
File the monthly return by the 19th
Contractors must submit a monthly return even if no subcontractors were used that month — nil returns are still required.
Built for construction businesses of all sizes
Sole Trader Subbies
Limited Company Contractors
Property Developers
Trades & Specialists
CIS questions we get
asked every week
Do I need to register for CIS if I only use one subcontractor?
Yes. If you pay subcontractors for construction work, you must register as a CIS contractor with HMRC before making any payment — regardless of how many subcontractors you use. Failure to register and make deductions can result in HMRC making you personally liable for the deductions that should have been withheld.What’s the difference between a contractor and a subcontractor under CIS?
Can I reclaim CIS deductions that have been taken from my payments?
A contractor is anyone who pays subcontractors for construction work — or any business that spends more than £1 million per year on construction in any rolling 3-year period. A subcontractor is anyone who carries out construction work for a contractor. Many businesses are both — paying their own subs while being paid by a main contractor above them.Can I reclaim CIS deductions that have been taken from my payments?
What is Gross Payment Status and how do I qualify?
Gross Payment Status (GPS) allows a subcontractor to be paid in full — without any CIS deduction. To qualify, you need to pass HMRC’s business, turnover, and compliance tests. The turnover test requires net construction turnover of at least £30,000 for sole traders or £30,000 per director (minimum £100,000) for companies. Your tax affairs must also be fully up to date. We can assess your eligibility and manage the application.Does the VAT Domestic Reverse Charge apply to my business?
Does the VAT Domestic Reverse Charge apply to my business?
The Domestic Reverse Charge (DRC) applies to most VAT-registered construction businesses supplying services to other VAT-registered businesses in the CIS chain. Under DRC, the customer — not the supplier — accounts for VAT. It’s a common area of confusion and error. We review your VAT position as part of our standard onboarding for construction clients.
Ready to get your CIS sorted?
You’ll work directly with Ben Brophy ACA — not a junior account handler. Get a free initial consultation and find out exactly where you stand with HMRC.Book Your Free Call →
