What is the Construction Industry Scheme (CIS)?

The Construction Industry Scheme (CIS) is an HMRC tax deduction scheme for construction workers in the UK. Contractors must deduct money from payments to subcontractors and pass these payments to HMRC. These CIS tax deductions count towards the subcontractor’s tax and National Insurance. Self-employed individuals in the construction trades pay tax under the construction industry scheme.

At Augustus Payroll, we offer CIS services for both contractors’ and subcontractors’ payroll. Our payroll team will assist with deductions and submissions, ensuring every aspect of your payroll and tax is covered so you can stay compliant.

Who is CIS for?

CIS applies to any UK construction business, including:

Contractors

Companies, developers, or agencies that pay subcontractors for construction work.

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Subcontractors

Self-employed, limited companies, or partnerships that are paid to do construction work.

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Types of Work:

Exceptions: Roles such as surveying or architecture are not part of the scheme. Augustus Payroll can offer assistance to determine if your construction company is part of CIS.

Site preparation and groundwork on construction sites

General building, repairing, or demolishing structures

Decorating
and finishing

Plumbing, electrical,
and roofing

Civil engineering
projects

How to Register for the
Construction Industry Scheme

At Augustus Payroll, we help both contractors and subcontractors with registration and all CIS compliance steps. Our clients can rest assured that their finances comply with CIS regulations and avoid time-consuming paperwork and admin.

For Contractors:

You must register with HMRC as a CIS contractor before you pay subcontractors. Failing to verify subcontractors or submit monthly returns can result in fines and a higher rate of deductions.

For Subcontractors:

If you are a subcontractor, registering means you avoid the 30% higher rate deduction. Registered CIS subcontractors are usually 20% deducted, provided HMRC verification requests confirm their status.

CIS Deductions Explained

Standard Rate: 20% for registered subcontractors.

Higher Rate: 30% if the subcontractor’s tax status can’t be verified.

Gross Payment Status: Eligible subcontractors can apply to receive full payments with no deductions if they meet HM Revenue criteria.

We will:

  • Do the deductions for you
  • Pay HMRC – if you sign up for apron or mudulr payments
  • Provide deduction statements and payslips to subcontractors.
  • Manage your HMRC verification requests and submit necessary records

Contractor & Subcontractor
Responsibilities Under CIS

With Augustus Payroll, you don’t need to do all this alone.
We will support you and your company with your CIS compliance.

Contractors Must

Verify subcontractors with HMRC

Deduct the right amount

Complete and submit monthly returns under the scheme Issue deduction statements to subcontractors

Keep records for at least 3 years

Subcontractors Must

Register with HMRC under the CIS

Keep a record of all deductions for self-assessment

Apply for Gross Payment Status if eligible

Get Paid with Our CIS Payroll Services

Our CIS payroll services will get subcontractors:

Why Choose Augustus Payroll for CIS?

We simplify the payroll process so you can focus on your contracts and construction work, not paperwork.

Book a Consultation

get in touch

Are you a contractor looking for reliable CIS services for your workers, or a subcontractor or sole trader needing help with CIS compliance and payments?

Contact Augustus Payroll today to discuss your construction business needs. Our payroll team will deal with the paperwork and guide you through registration, verification, and full payroll compliance.

Call us or fill out our quick enquiry form to get started.

    Call us: 01269 543165 Email us: info@augustuspayroll.co.uk Office: Office B, Parc Gelli Werdd, Rhodfa’r Glo, Cross Hands, Llanelli, SA14 6EF