Newsletter 460: So is no news, good news for contractors?

by Newsletter Editor at 10:20 02/12/15 ( Shout99 Newsletter)

As freelancers listened eagerly to the Chancellor's Autumn Statement, and then the professionals scoured the small print of the subsequent documentation, the news was more about what was not mentioned rather than what was.

A few weeks before, it looked as if the Government machinery was trailing an idea to check reaction as two national newspapers reported that the Treasury was considering measures which could force the majority of freelancers who work for a single client on to the payroll after a months. Some thought it could be 'kite flying', others thought it might be preparing the ground work for an announcement which would be less draconian than the rumour. Whatever the motivation or reason for the speculation - there was nothing to stand it up or to knock it down. However, the fat lady has not yet sung. The Government still talks about ensuring people pay their fair share of tax and there is a tax policy consultation ongoing....and that gives a wide berth for future announcements. Next date in the diary is December 9 when the Government will publish its latest draft clauses for inclusion in the Finance Bill 2016. But while freelancers were concerned about the uncertainty relating to changes to IR35; there was equal concern about the certainty coming in with the removal of travel and subsistence claims in certain circumstances. The Chancellor confirmed swingeing cuts to would go ahead as planned. More information and comment about the Autumn Statement is available in Shout99's Political news section. Other news items in Shout99 include: Agency group lambasts wilful disregard of IR35 report HMRC's service must not suffer because of restructuring Silicon Roundabout start-ups falls by a third Agency group slams 'sham' consultation on NHS workers ****************************************************** Advertisement - Protection against IR35 investigations (FO35) ****************************************************** Advertisement Protection against disputes with HMRC on tax matters, including IR35, is available for £116.00 a year. Freelancers Outside IR35 (FO35) is a complete operating system for small businesses with guidance on compliance; draft contracts; a helpline; status assessments; and representation by Qdos Consulting in the event of a dispute with the Revenue on tax; VAT; or IR35 issues. FO35 is available online for immediate cover for £116.00 a year. For more information or to order, see...... Freelancers Outside IR35 ************ Also in Shout99 ************ Ask An Expert, our expert panel answers questions from freelancers, including opting out. Letters from Freelancers opens up discussions on a number of subjects of interest to freelancers. The Clubhouse is an area for 'off-topic' discussions. ******** Twitter ******** For the twitters and tweeters among our readers, you can follow Shout99's headline news on Twitter. ************************ Shout99 - Newsletter ************************ Please forward this newsletter to any other freelancer or small businesses who may be interested in news and information related to running a small business. You can subscribe to receive your own free copy of this newsletter on the home page of Shout99. Susie Hughes, Editor Newsletter 460 Shout99 - the network for freelancers Tweet

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