Guides for UK Tradespeople

CIS

CIS Deduction Rates Explained: 20%, 30% and Gross Payment Status

CIS deduction rates explained for UK subcontractors. When 20% applies, when 30% applies, how to get gross payment status (0%), and how deductions affect your ta

5 min read CIS

CIS Invoice Template UK: What to Include and How to Get It Right

Free CIS invoice template for UK subcontractors. Exactly what to include, how to separate labour from materials, and how to show the CIS deduction correctly.

5 min read CIS

How to Register as a CIS Subcontractor with HMRC

Step-by-step guide to registering as a CIS subcontractor with HMRC. What you need, how long it takes, and why registering saves you money.

5 min read CIS

CIS Gross Payment Status: How to Apply and What to Expect

Everything you need to know about CIS gross payment status. How to qualify, how to apply, and what it means for your invoices and cash flow.

5 min read Invoicing

What to Include on a UK Invoice: Complete Checklist

Exactly what to include on a UK business invoice. HMRC's requirements for sole traders, VAT-registered businesses, and CIS subcontractors.

4 min read VAT

Domestic Reverse Charge VAT: Complete Guide for UK Construction

Complete guide to the domestic reverse charge VAT for UK construction businesses. Who it applies to, how to invoice, and common mistakes to avoid.

5 min read VAT

VAT Invoice Requirements UK: What Every Business Needs to Know

Complete guide to UK VAT invoice requirements. What fields are mandatory, full vs simplified VAT invoices, and what happens if you get it wrong.

4 min read Invoicing

How to Invoice as a Sole Trader in the UK: Complete Guide

Step-by-step guide to invoicing as a UK sole trader. What to include, payment terms, VAT, late payments, and how to get paid faster.

5 min read HMRC

Making Tax Digital for Sole Traders: What You Need to Know

Making Tax Digital for Income Tax explained for UK sole traders. When it applies, what you need, and how to prepare for MTD ITSA.

4 min read Invoicing

Invoice Payment Terms UK: What to Use and How to Enforce Them

Guide to UK invoice payment terms. 30 days, 14 days, net 30 explained. How to set terms, what the law says, and how to enforce late payment.

4 min read HMRC

UTR Number: What It Is and Why You Need It on Your Invoices

What is a UTR number, where to find yours, and when to include it on UK invoices. Essential reading for sole traders and CIS subcontractors.

3 min read HMRC

Late Payment Act UK: How to Charge Interest on Overdue Invoices

How to use the Late Payment of Commercial Debts Act 1998 to charge interest on overdue invoices. Current rate, how to calculate it, and how to enforce it.

4 min read HMRC

Self Assessment for Sole Traders: A Plain-English Guide

Complete guide to Self Assessment for UK sole traders. What to report, key deadlines, how to reduce your tax bill, and what happens if you file late.

5 min read Invoicing

10 Common Invoicing Mistakes Self-Employed People Make (and How to Fix Them)

The most common invoicing mistakes made by UK self-employed and sole traders — and simple fixes for each. From missing payment terms to CIS errors.

4 min read Invoicing

Sole Trader Invoice Template UK: Free Download and Complete Guide

Free sole trader invoice template for UK businesses. What to include, how to set payment terms, and how to get paid faster using online invoicing.

4 min read VAT

Flat Rate VAT Scheme for UK Contractors: Is It Worth It?

How the VAT Flat Rate Scheme works for UK contractors and sole traders. When it saves money, when to avoid it, and how it interacts with CIS.

4 min read Guides

Best Invoicing Software for UK Sole Traders in 2026

Honest comparison of the best invoicing software for UK sole traders and CIS contractors in 2026. Features, pricing, and which is right for your trade.

4 min read CIS

CIS Statement Template: What Contractors Must Provide to Subcontractors

What is a CIS payment and deduction statement, what it must contain, and when contractors must issue it to subcontractors.

3 min read CIS

What is CIS Tax? A Plain-English Guide for UK Contractors

CIS tax explained simply for UK subcontractors and contractors. What it is, who pays it, deduction rates, and how to handle it on your invoices.

5 min read CIS

CIS Monthly Return: A Complete Guide for Contractors

How to complete and submit your CIS monthly return. Deadlines, what to include, nil returns, and penalties for late submission.

4 min read