Ian Smart: The IR35 opportunities for advisers explained

clock • 5 min read

The changes to IR35 tax rules are going to offer tax and life planning opportunities, writes Ian Smart, who explains all in this column...

The Intermediaries Legislation became law in 2000. It was introduced in response to the growth of what the government termed ‘disguised employment' - particularly in the IT industry.   By working via a limited company, a worker could pay less tax than a traditional employee performing exactly the same role. The IR35 rules apply to contracts which are performed in the manner of an employee rather than a self-employed person working in business on their own account.   Although the tax benefit associated with working via a company has gradually been eroded over the years, there is still ...

To continue reading this article...

Join Professional Adviser for free

  • Unlimited access to real-time news, industry insights and market intelligence
  • Stay ahead of the curve with spotlights on emerging trends and technologies
  • Receive breaking news stories straight to your inbox in the daily newsletters
  • Make smart business decisions with the latest developments in regulation, investing retirement and protection
  • Members-only access to the editor’s weekly Friday commentary
  • Be the first to hear about our events and awards programmes

Join

 

Already a Professional Adviser member?

Login

More on Tax planning

IHT receipts continue to climb ahead of 2027 pension changes

IHT receipts continue to climb ahead of 2027 pension changes

April – December 2025 saw Treasury net £6.6bn from estates

Jenna Brown
clock 22 January 2026 • 3 min read
Octopus' Kristy Barr: Estate planning innovation crucial as govt shifts goalposts

Octopus' Kristy Barr: Estate planning innovation crucial as govt shifts goalposts

Last two Budgets have ‘caused a lot of uncertainty, a lot of disruption’

Jenna Brown
clock 20 January 2026 • 8 min read
Will IHT reforms trigger a pension scam epidemic?

Will IHT reforms trigger a pension scam epidemic?

'People feel that they can trust what they see on social media'

Caitlin Southall
clock 20 January 2026 • 4 min read