Starting Up

Making the move to contracting should be an exciting time. In this section James has included a number of guides he believes contractors will find helpful, when they are considering making the move.

If you would like to appoint Dolan Accountancy as your accountants, please visit our become a client page or if you have any questions about contracting please call us on 01442 795100 or email sophie.lewis@dolanaccountancy.com.

The pages

Contractor Calculator

Our contractor calculator will give you an idea of how much you can expect to take home, either working through a Limited Company or under an Umbrella. If you are new to contracting or thinking about making the switch from permanent employment, check out our handy guides new to contacting and permanent to contracting or give one Read More...

Limited vs Umbrella

As a contractor, you’ll likely have heard a lot about both Limited companies and Umbrella companies. There’s plenty of conflicting information out there and it can be difficult to make an informed decision about the best option for you.

Switching Accountants

There are a lot of accountancy firms out there – some more suitable for contractors than others. Although it can seem like a big step, switching needn’t be a tricky process. If any of the below apply, it might be worth looking to make the switch!

Should I set up a Limited Company?

Being a sole trader is the most common way to operate a fledgling business. However, as a freelance business grows, it’s likely you’ll be better-served setting up a Limited company. This quick guide gives a run-down of the benefits of doing so.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Going Limited

There are many reasons contractors choose to operate through a Limited company – however, it’s not for everyone. Before you take the plunge, you’ll want to be sure you’re making the right decision for your own personal circumstances. This guide will help you decide if a Limited company is the best option for you.

Moving from Permanent to Contracting

Leaving the security and comfort of a permanent job for contract work isn’t the easiest decision to make – change can be scary, and there are few bigger changes! Once you’ve made the leap, though, many contractors find it unthinkable to give up the variety of work, higher pay, ability to choose your own clients and flexible working patterns.

Offshore Tax Avoidance Schemes

Hearing you could take home 90-95% of your contract rate, can seem really appealing. Though in reality these are just tax avoidance schemes.
Did you know, if you are caught using one of these schemes, you will have to pay back all of the unpaid tax, as well as a very hefty fine!

Moving from Self Employed to Limited

Self-employment as a sole trader is the first step that many contractors take when working for themselves. It’s simpler, especially in terms of your responsibilities and administration, and easier to juggle alongside permanent employment.