1. What Is a CIS Rebate?
Ever wondered what this whole “CIS rebate” thing is all about? When you’re paid under the Construction Industry Scheme (CIS) your contractor deducts tax (20 % or even 30 %) and sends it to HMRC. But here’s the kicker — if you’ve been working under CIS and have allowable expenses (tools, travel, PPE, van costs, etc.), you might be owed money back. We show you exactly what counts, how receipts or logs help (even if you can’t find every paper), and how it all adds up.
2. Who Can Make a CIS Repayment Claim?
Whether you’re a sparky, chippy, brickie, labourer, an apprentice under CIS – or even if you’ve switched roles mid-year – you might still qualify. We cover scenarios like having moved into PAYE, worked a few months only, worked under more than one contractor, or even if you’ve now hung up your hi-vis. If you’ve had CIS deductions, this is the article that tells you whether you can claim.
Who can make a CIS repayment claim →
3. When Do I Claim a CIS Refund?
Tax deadlines can be confusing or easily forgotten when you're busy doing the graft. We explain that you file after the tax year ends (5 April), aim for the end of January deadline (31 Jan), and yes – you should claim every year if you’re eligible. We also explain why earlier is better (faster payment, fewer distractions) and what happens if you’ve never done a Self Assessment before (spoiler: it’s not as scary as you think).
4. How To Claim CIS Refunds?
Ready to actually make the claim? We walk through how far back you can claim (up to 4 tax years), how long HMRC takes (typically 2–6 weeks), and what the service with TIK-TAX looks like (no win, no fee; we handle the paperwork; you get the lump sum). We also cover what happens if you’re a limited company, how to keep your records straight for next year (apps, logs, receipts), and reassure you it’s totally legit.
How to claim your CIS refund →
5. HMRC CIS Penalties for Late Self Assessment
Nobody likes penalties, and this guide explains exactly how to avoid them. In , we break down what HMRC fines you for (late filing, missing returns, incorrect info), how quickly penalties stack up, and the simple things you can do to stay out of trouble. Whether you’re a sole trader or running a limited company, this page clears up the rules so you don’t accidentally hand money to HMRC that should be staying in your pocket.
What if I didn't register? Can I still get my rebate?
Absolutely. Even if you were taxed at the higher 30% rate, we can help you claim back your CIS deductions HMRC have.
I lost my UTR. What do I do?
We can help you retrieve it from HMRC. Happens all the time.
What if I work for more than one contractor to get a CIS deduction refund?
No problem. Just send all the CIS statements and we’ll combine them.
What if I haven't heard about CIS - Who does CIS apply to?
It applies to self-employed construction workers and subcontractors who work for contractors in the construction industry. Think sparkies, chippies, brickies, and more.
What if I’ve gone limited?
Different ball game to claim a CIS refund for a limited company. You might need to file accounts instead of a rebate. But don’t worry, we can help with that too.
What happens if I made a mistake on my tax return?
Tell us and we’ll help sort it. HMRC like honesty, and so do we.
What if I’m late filing my CIS refund claim?
HMRC can fine you, but we’ll help you dodge that bullet if we can and get you that CIS repayment.
What if HMRC ask questions?
We answer them for you. You chill, we handle it.
Can I claim my accountant fees?
If they’re related to your self-employment, yes.
What if I owe HMRC money?
They might take it from your rebate, but we’ll make sure it’s fair when we claim repayment of CIS deductions.
What if I worked abroad?
Let’s chat – it depends where and when. There might be a claim in it!
Can I claim mobile phone costs?
Yes, if you use it for work – even just a percentage.
What if I’ve moved jobs loads this year?
No stress – just give us the details and we’ll sort it out. Jumping jobs is part of the trade!
Can I claim expenses from previous years?
Yes, up to 4 years back. Let’s dig up that buried treasure.
What if I worked for cash in hand?
If you weren’t taxed under CIS, it's trickier, but we can chat and see what’s possible.
What if I’m dyslexic or struggle with reading?
We’ve got your back. We’ll explain everything clearly – no fancy lingo.
What if HMRC owes me AND I owe them?
They’ll balance it out. We’ll make sure it’s all square.
What if I’m VAT registered?
We’ll factor that into your return. We handle VAT too!
I live in a van. Can I claim that?
If it’s your mobile site office, maybe. Let’s discuss.
What if I got a grant during COVID?
Tell us – we’ll include it properly to keep everything above board.
Can I claim subscriptions or trade union fees?
If they’re work-related, you bet.
I lost my paperwork. What now?
Don’t stress – we’re pros at piecing things together for claiming CIS deductions.
I’ve changed jobs halfway through the tax year – what now?
We just divide and conquer. We’ll deal with both parts.
Will I get in trouble if I did it wrong before?
Not if you fix it now. Better late than never – we’ll help.
What if my contractor gave me no paperwork that show my CIS tax deductions?
Still claimable – we can get what we need.
What’s the weirdest expense someone’s claimed?
A llama. Not joking. (Didn’t go through, sadly.)
What happens if I ignore this stuff?
HMRC might fine you, and you’ll miss out on cash. Best to tackle it.
Can I follow you on social media?
Yes! TikTok, Insta, Facebook – we’re where the builders scroll.
Got more questions? Drop us a message on WhatApp.