If you’re a freelancer the decision whether your work is caught by IR35 should not be taken lightly. Please read our guide to IR35 and talk to us about your circumstances before making a decision.
If you decide that IR35 does apply then only a small proportion of income will be available as a dividend. It would then make sense to pay a higher monthly salary so that you have a more consistent income through the year. Bonuses would be paid on top as money built up in the business. A final bonus each tax year would be paid when the IR35 deemed salary is been calculated.