Business guide · Construction businesses

CIS: what should contractors and subcontractors check?

Understand which role you have before registering, verifying or deducting.

The short answer

Start here.

The Construction Industry Scheme has different requirements for contractors and subcontractors. Identify your role and the type of work first; then check registration, verification, deductions and reporting with HMRC.

Your next moves

A practical checklist.

  1. Decide whether you are a contractor, subcontractor or both.
  2. Check whether the work and payments fall within CIS.
  3. Confirm the correct registration and verification steps.
  4. Keep records of payments, deductions and returns.

Good to know

The details matter.

HMRC’s CIS guidance explains who the scheme covers and how contractors and subcontractors use it. Registration and deductions vary with role and status.

CIS can interact with VAT and payroll. This overview is not a substitute for checking a particular contract or payment.

This guide is general information, prepared for the HCA website preview. It is not personal tax, legal or financial advice. HCA editorial approval is pending. Check the official source and seek advice for your circumstances.
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