CIS Tax Returns Service

Working through the Construction Industry Scheme? We’ll take care of your Self Assessment tax returns.

If you’re working via the Construction Industry Scheme, you will need to submit a tax return to disclose your earnings for the financial year.

What is a CIS Tax Return?

The deadlines for CIS tax returns is the same for all other tax returns – 31st January.

If you’re a contractor who pays subcontractors, you’ll need to file your returns to HMRC by the 19th of every month following the last tax month.

How can CloudAccountant.co.uk help with your CIS Tax Return?

Our CIS Tax Return service is custom-built to take the stress, complexity, and guesswork out of preparing and filing your tax returns.

For a single fixed fee, we can handle every stage of the process, from getting you registered for the system to submitting your returns online.

Because we can become your “official agent” with HMRC, you’ll never have to deal with the taxman yourself. With CloudAccountant.co.uk, you’ll never miss a deadline or any tax relief you’re entitled to.

Help switching from your previous accountant.

Whether you’re new to CIS working or switching from another accountant, our expert team can take care of everything for you — from registration to refund. We’ll make sure your return is accurate, submitted on time, and includes every tax relief you’re entitled to, so you can maximise your refund with minimal hassle.

Avoid penalties due to late returns.

Late or incorrect CIS tax returns can lead to fines from HMRC – but with CloudAccountant.co.uk, you’ll never miss a deadline. We stay on top of your filing dates and keep your records accurate, so you stay compliant and avoid costly penalties.

On hand year-long aftercare and advice.

Our support doesn’t stop once your return is filed. You’ll have access to ongoing advice and aftercare throughout the year  – whether you need help with expenses, upcoming deadlines, or preparing for your next return.

Claiming any refunds you’re due.

We’ll make sure you claim every tax refund you’re entitled to under the CIS scheme. By accurately calculating your income and allowable expenses, we help maximise your rebate and ensure you receive it as quickly as possible.

Need to complete a CIS tax return?

Submit your details and we’ll arrange a chat at a time that suits you

LEAD: CIS Self Assessment

What expenses can I claim for?

A key part of working with the Self Assessment system is understanding what expenses you can claim for. This is an area where a lot of people on Self Assessment miss out, and end up paying too much tax. Examples of allowable expenses in construction include:

Work travel costs.

Work-related travel expenses that can be expensed include public transport, private vehicle mileage, taxis, air and rail travel, accommodation, meals, and conference fees, as long as the travel is for business purposes and proper receipts are kept. Commuting and personal travel are not claimable.

Essential tools and equipment.

Essential work tools and equipment that can be expensed include items like computers, software, mobile phones, uniforms, and specialized tools, as long as they are necessary for job duties and supported by receipts. Personal items are not claimable.

Materials you need for work.

Work-related materials that can be expensed include items like office supplies, stationery, business-related subscriptions, raw materials for production, and any other consumables directly needed for job tasks.

General costs of running your business, from stationary to advertising.

General costs that can be expensed include office rent, utilities, stationary, business insurance, marketing, phone/internet bills for work, and professional fees, as long as they are necessary for the business and supported by receipts.

Accountancy fees.

In the UK, accountancy fees can be expensed if they are for business-related services, such as tax returns or financial advice, and must be supported by invoices.

CIS Tax Returns

For people in the building trade, CIS tax returns are a fact of life. Making a mistake when filing your CIS tax return online could lead to you paying way too much tax on your pay. Here at CloudAccountant, our experts are on hand to manage your CIS tax returns hassle-free.

Getting paid through the Construction Industry Scheme (CIS) means that your contractor has to take out a substantial amount of your pay before you get it. This money then goes straight to the HMRC, and is supposed to act as “advance payment” toward the tax and National Insurance you’ll owe. This is the law, and your contractor doesn’t have any choice about it.

For the subcontractor, this can be pretty painful. Effectively, you’re being taxed right from the first penny you earn, without getting your tax-free Personal Allowance. This is supposed to help crack down on tax evasion in the construction industry, but it means that honest subcontractors end up carrying the load.

The good news is that you can claim back the extra tax you’ve paid in your Self Assessment tax return. Despite having 20% of your money taken by HMRC, you still have to file a return. If you’ve paid too much tax, you’ll get this back as a tax refund.

Why choose CloudAccountant.co.uk?

We’re located in the Cheshire town of Wilmslow, just outside of Manchester, but operate nationally across the UK. No matter your individual needs, there are some basics that are guaranteed across the board, designed to ensure you’re getting the best service possible

Unlimited access to your own dedicated accountant.

You’ll be able to contact your dedicated accountant either in person, or via phone, email or video call.

Simple online accounting software.

We are partners with leading accounting software specialist Xero and FreeAgent. Training and integration with these platforms are included in your monthly fee.

Regular tax efficiency reviews.

We will conduct annual tax efficiency reviews to reduce your tax bills.

Frequently asked questions about our CIS Tax Return service

If you’re a subcontractor registered under the Construction Industry Scheme (CIS), you’re classed as self-employed and must file a Self Assessment tax return each year. This allows HMRC to calculate if you’re owed a tax refund – especially since 20% is typically deducted at source. We can manage the entire process for you, ensuring everything is accurate and submitted on time.

Yes! We specialise in helping subcontractors claim back overpaid tax. We’ll make sure all allowable expenses are included – such as tools, materials, mileage, and work-related travel – so you get back every penny you’re owed from HMRC.

Missing the 31st January deadline can result in penalties from HMRC. When you work with CloudAccountant.co.uk, we’ll ensure your CIS tax return is prepared and submitted well ahead of time – keeping you compliant and avoiding unnecessary fines.

We offer a fixed-fee CIS tax return service with no hidden charges. For that, we’ll register you with HMRC (if needed), prepare and file your return, claim any refund due, and provide year-round advice and aftercare. You’ll never need to speak to HMRC directly – we act as your authorised agent.

Speak to our accountancy team today

Need help with your business accounts, tax returns, or accounting software? Our friendly team of experts at CloudAccountant.co.uk is here to support you. Whether you’re a freelancer, sole trader, or growing business, we’re just a call or click away.