Freelancers and Contractors Demand a Budget Shake‑Up
Why the Spring Budget matters for the gig economy
With Wednesday 6th March arriving, our independent workers are shouting from the rooftops: “The rules that let you work off payroll are a nightmare!” Qdos, the IR35 compliance guru, has sifted through almost 900 surveys to rumor‑proof the story.
Key takeaways that may swing the next general election
- Two‑thirds say the office‑style “inside IR35” is killing business. Up to 30% more tax, zero job security—sounds like a bad job–benefit combo, doesn’t it?
- When you’re “inside IR35,” you’re treated as a permanent employee for taxes, but you don’t get the perks—the classic “zero‑rights employment” stereotype.
- The self‑employed are also on the hunt for:
- A lower corporation tax rate
- Better umbrella industry regulations to cut out shady players
- A simpler tax framework that actually makes sense
- Conservative MPs echo the frustrations—understandably, given they’re also under tax strain.
What the Chancellor should take away
“The Spring Budget could be the last chance to win hearts before the next election,” says Qdos CEO Seb Maley. “If the Chancellor lets flexible workers’ voices slip through, it’s a political no‑no.”
Major shout‑out: The off‑payroll rules need a rewrite—no, a fresh start.
Bottom line for the public
In short, the crowd wants the off‑payroll rules to be dismantled, tax rates slashed, and umbrella companies finally put in order. The budget may be the final stage for securing support, so keep your eyes on the scrolling ticker.
