Contractors split over their future after IR35 reform

With fewer than six months until IR35 reform is extended to the private sector next April there appears to be little consensus on how contractors see their future.

Qdos surveyed more than 750 contractors about their plans and according to the results although most prefer contracting through a personal service company only 45% expect to continue working this way. Nearly one in five are considering closing down their business as a direct result of the reform and 17% are considering becoming employees; 6% may retire. A further 14% have other plans which include starting new businesses or expanding their current one.

Of those who expect to stop contracting next year three-quarters said the decision directly relates to the IR35 reform and a lack of faith in their client to determine their status accurately.

Qdos chief executive officer Seb Maley said: ‘While nearly all contractors want...