If you’ve ever been halfway up some scaffolding wondering why the taxman nicks 30% of your graft, this one’s for you. Registering for the Construction Industry Scheme (CIS) means HMRC only takes 20% instead of 30% — and that extra 10% adds up faster than a roofer on double time.
The good news? Registering is dead simple when you follow our 5 steps below:
Step 1: Get Yourself a UTR Number
Before HMRC lets you join CIS, you need a UTR number (that’s your Unique Taxpayer Reference).
How to get one:
- Go to the HMRC website
- Register as self-employed
- Wait for your UTR to arrive in the post
If you’ve lost your UTR (happens to everyone), call HMRC and they’ll send it again.
Step 2: Make Sure You’ve Got a Government Gateway Account (helpful but not a mandatory)
This is your login for all HMRC stuff.
You’ll need:
- Your email
- A phone
- Your NI number
Not got one yet? Create one here on the gov.uk website.
Step 3: Now Register for CIS (the main event)
Once you’ve got your UTR, it’s go time.
You’ll need to tell HMRC:
- You're a subcontractor
- Your UTR
- Your NI number
- Your personal details
- Your business name (this can literally just be your own name)
- Whether you’re a sole trader (if you’re one person, you are)
Where to register:
Follow the green 'Start now' link on this HMRC page.
This bit takes about 5 minutes.
Step 4: Wait for the Confirmation
HMRC will send you a message saying you’re officially a CIS subcontractor.
That’s it.
Step 5: Tell Your Contractor You’re Registered
Because now — drum roll please — instead of taking 30%, they should only deduct 20%.
That’s basically like getting a pay rise without doing anything extra.
(Except filling out a form, but still.)
BONUS: Why You Should Do This ASAP
If you don’t register:
- Contractors deduct 30%
- You get less in your pocket each Friday
- You STILL have to file a tax return anyway
- And yes… HMRC still want all the paperwork
If you do register:
- Only 20% gets taken
- You take home more money right away
- You can claim a tax rebate (usually £1,000–£3,000)
- TIK-TAX can sort all the boring bits for you
Everybody wins. Except HMRC.
(But don’t worry, they’re fine.)
Common Questions From Real Trades Lads & Lasses
“Can I register on my phone?”
Yep. Takes about 10 minutes max. You can sort it on your lunch break.
“What if I get stuck?”
That’s what we’re here for - message us and we’ll sort it.
“Can I work without registering?”
Yes… but they’ll take 30%. Ouch.
“Do I need a company?”
Nope. Just you and your tools.