FCSA Recruiter Partners: Paving the Way to Compliance and Trust in the Recruitment Industry
In the fast-paced world of recruitment, standing out and ensuring compliance are paramount. For recruitment agencies aiming to distinguish themselves and reinforce compliance, becoming an FCSA Recruiter Partner is a strategic move that goes beyond a mere affiliation. Here’s a closer look at how this partnership can shape the narrative of your agency: 1. Upholding…
A bitty Spring Budget 2024 that won’t please everyone, let alone contractors? Inevitably
Originally written for ContractorUK It does seem that chancellors’ Budgets or ‘Spring Statements’ come around far more often than they used to. So for me this article feels a bit like ‘here I go again,’ as I strive to predict the outcome of a Budget — another ‘fiscal event’ we’ll submit our own wishes for…
Why repealing the IR35 off-payroll rules is a populist folly which a new UK government must turn down
With a UK general election in just 22 days’ time, the future of work for independent contractors is potentially going to get rewritten, and even revamped, very soon. While repealing the April 6th 2017/2021 Off-Payroll Working (OPW) rules and revisiting IR35 often dominates the discussion among contractors, it’s time to move beyond simplistic narratives and…
Unveiling FCSA’s Impact: A Closer Look at Our 700-Point Codes of Compliance
Freelancer & Contractor Services Association (FCSA) stands tall as a dedicated guardian of industry standards in the realm of freelancer and contractor services. Let’s unveil the myths, and showcase the profound impact of our 700-point Codes of Compliance, designed to elevate the industry as a whole. Setting and Raising Standards At the heart of FCSA’s…
Civil penalties for employing illegal workers
Written by JMW solicitors LLP Employers in the UK are under a strict duty to prevent illegal working by carrying out the appropriate checks, and there are hefty fines for not complying with their obligations in this respect. Whilst most employers will be aware of ‘right to work’ checks, they are also obliged to…
Ryanair Case: Pilot found to be worker despite limited company arrangement
Written by Brabners LLP The recent decision in Ryanair DAC and Storm Global Ltd v Lutz [2023] is the latest case to examine self-employed status and to find that an individual is actually a worker, despite being treated as a limited company contractor. The Employment Appeal Tribunal (“EAT”) has found that Mr Lutz, a…
Navigating the Future of Freelancing
Written by FCSA Chief Executive, Chris Bryce In the ever-evolving landscape of the freelance and contractor industry, adaptability is the name of the game. As the Chief Executive of the Freelancer and Contractor Services Association (FCSA), I’ve had the privilege of witnessing firsthand how our industry has transformed and continues to do so. In this,…
Umbrella vs Agency PAYE: What’s Best for You?
Contractors often face a pivotal decision: should they opt for payment via an umbrella company or through agency PAYE? Each avenue has its merits and drawbacks, but in most cases, the umbrella company route proves superior for contractors. Advantages of Umbrella Companies Peace of Mind: Umbrella companies handle all PAYE compliance and employment administrative tasks,…
Audited Accounts vs. Small Company Accounts
When it comes to filing your company’s accounts, there are two main options: audited accounts and small company accounts. The difference between the two is that audited accounts are subject to an independent audit, while small company accounts are not. Audited Accounts Audited accounts are required for all companies that are not small companies. If…
The Genesis of Umbrella Companies
Umbrella companies have become a staple in the modern gig economy, offering a convenient employment solution for contractors and freelancers. However, the origin of umbrella companies is a fascinating journey intertwined with the changing landscape of the job market and the advent of legislation like IR35. The Birth of Umbrella Companies The concept of umbrella…