I am an electrician who is on the CIS scheme. I’ve been working for the same company for 20 years but am still classed as self employed.

[Paul Fay]

I’m part of the CIS scheme. Like many builders we are employed by everything but name (we are self employed). I’ve been working for the same company for over 20 years ( a very good company), they deduct tax from me at source. Today they took the very understandable decision to suspend all work for three weeks. Obviously 3 weeks with no pay is not something I can manage. What are my rights I can’t find anything online that refers to the CIS scheme.
thanks in advance for your answers.

 

[Pretty Mouth]

As I understand it: If you're on the CIS scheme, then you're self employed. However, if you work solely for the same company for longer than a certain amount of time (3 months I think) then your company is obliged to properly employ you. Do you have other clients, or just the 1?

 

[davesparks]

Unfortunately you and the company you work for will likely be viewed as having broken the law with this work arrangement as you will almost certainly be deemed a disguised employee.

I don't know exactly how this will affect your ability to get support but but I wouldn't shout too loudly about it.

The positive news is that you should be able to claim universal credit to help with bills etc