CIS accountant
in Erith
Fixed-fee CIS returns, tax refund claims and Self Assessment for construction subcontractors across Erith, Dartford and Bexley.
WHY TRADESPEOPLE CHOOSE BDH
CIS accounting.
Without the hassle.
The Construction Industry Scheme involves monthly contractor returns, annual Self Assessment tax returns, CIS deduction statements and — if you qualify — gross payment status applications. Miss a deadline and HMRC issues penalties automatically.
BDH Accounting handles all of it for tradespeople across Erith, Dartford, Crayford and the surrounding area — one fixed monthly fee, everything included, nothing missed.
SERVICES FOR CIS CONTRACTORS
Everything you need, all included
One monthly fee covers your full CIS accounting — from monthly returns and refund claims to Self Assessment and gross payment status.
Monthly CIS returns
If you are a contractor, CIS returns must reach HMRC by the 19th of each month. We file on time, every month — including nil returns — so you never face a late filing penalty.
CIS tax refund claims
Most CIS subcontractors overpay tax through deductions at source. We calculate the refund you are owed, complete your Self Assessment return and recover the money from HMRC as quickly as possible.
Gross payment status
Receiving payments without CIS deductions dramatically improves your cash flow. We assess whether you qualify and prepare your application — contractors must meet HMRC turnover, compliance and business tests.
Self Assessment for subcontractors
All CIS subcontractors must file annual Self Assessment. We declare your income, claim every allowable expense and offset your CIS deductions to minimise what you owe — or maximise your refund.
Limited company set-up
Incorporating as a limited company can be more tax-efficient for higher-earning tradespeople. We handle the Companies House registration, payroll, VAT and Corporation Tax from day one.
Same-day support
CIS queries, new contract questions, subcontractor verifications — your dedicated accountant responds the same working day, every time.
HOW CIS DEDUCTIONS WORK
Understanding your CIS deductions
Under the Construction Industry Scheme, contractors deduct tax from payments to subcontractors before paying them. The rate is 20% for registered subcontractors and 30% for unregistered ones.
These deductions are not a final tax bill — they are advance payments towards the tax you owe at the end of the year. If the deductions total more than your actual tax liability, HMRC refunds the difference. Most subcontractors get money back.
The key to maximising your refund is claiming every allowable expense — materials, fuel, tools, PPE, phone, insurance and more. We ensure nothing is missed.
Claim your CIS refundGROSS PAYMENT STATUS
Get paid without deductions
With gross payment status, contractors pay you in full — no CIS deductions at source. This can mean thousands of pounds more in your pocket each month, dramatically improving your cash flow.
To qualify, you must pass three HMRC tests: a business test (proving you are a genuine construction business), a turnover test (minimum annual turnover thresholds apply) and a compliance test (all tax returns and payments up to date).
We review your eligibility, help you resolve any compliance issues and submit the application to HMRC on your behalf. If you do not qualify yet, we set a plan to get you there.
Apply for gross payment statusGOOD TO KNOW
Frequently asked questions
How does CIS tax work for subcontractors?
Under CIS, contractors deduct tax at source from payments to subcontractors — 20% if you are registered with HMRC, 30% if you are not. These deductions are advance payments towards your Self Assessment tax bill. If more is deducted than you owe, HMRC refunds the difference.
How do I claim a CIS tax refund?
You claim your CIS refund through your annual Self Assessment tax return. We calculate the total CIS deductions you have suffered, offset them against your tax liability and claim the refund from HMRC. Most subcontractors receive a refund — the exact amount depends on your income and expenses.
What expenses can CIS subcontractors claim?
Allowable expenses include materials used on jobs, fuel and vehicle costs (mileage or actual costs), tools and equipment, PPE, phone and internet (business proportion), public liability insurance and accountancy fees. Claiming all allowable expenses is the single biggest factor in the size of your CIS refund.
What is gross payment status and how do I get it?
Gross payment status lets you receive payments from contractors without CIS deductions, which improves your cash flow significantly. To qualify, you must pass HMRC business, turnover and compliance tests. We prepare and submit the application on your behalf.
Do I need to file a Self Assessment as a CIS subcontractor?
Yes. All self-employed CIS subcontractors must file an annual Self Assessment tax return to declare income, claim expenses and offset CIS deductions. Missing the deadline results in automatic penalties. We handle the return and ensure you claim every allowable expense.
When do monthly CIS contractor returns need to be filed?
Monthly CIS returns must reach HMRC by the 19th of the month following the payment month. Late filing penalties start at £100 and increase rapidly. We file on your behalf each month, including nil returns when no payments have been made.
Can you help CIS contractors set up a limited company?
Yes. Incorporating through a limited company can be more tax-efficient at higher earnings. We advise on the right structure for your situation, handle the Companies House registration and set up your payroll, VAT and Corporation Tax from day one.
Ready to claim what
you are owed?
Book a free, no-obligation consultation. We will review your CIS situation, tell you what refund you may be due and give you a fixed monthly price — no surprises.
Book your free consultation