Get set up quickly
New to limited company contracting? We can get your company set up within 24 hours and make sure the foundations are right from day one.
Limited company contracting, made simple
Everything you need to set up, run and manage your limited company
Whether you’re setting up your first limited company or already trading, we make it easier. From company formation and accounting to tax planning, software and ongoing support, our contractor specialists take care of the detail so you can focus on your work.
Limited company support from day one
Keep your accounts and tax under control
We handle your company accounts, tax returns and ongoing compliance, keeping deadlines, filings and records in order throughout the year.
Make smarter decisions about your tax
Good tax planning shouldn’t happen once a year. We proactively help you understand how to manage your company and personal tax position efficiently as your circumstances change.
Get the software you need
Access our bespoke contractor accounting software, developed with our partners My Digital, so you have a simple way to keep your finances organised.
Speak to a specialist when you need one
Get unlimited support by phone, video call and email from a team that understands contractors, limited companies and the decisions that come with running your own business.
Keep your home address private
Our registered office service gives your company a professional registered address and reduces the administration you need to manage yourself.
Move between inside and outside IR35 contracts
If you secure an additional contract inside IR35, you can use Sapphire’s umbrella service at no additional cost while we continue supporting your limited company.
Know exactly what you're paying for
A comprehensive service with clear pricing and no hidden costs.
More than an accountant
Our support goes beyond producing accounts at year end. We help you set up your company, keep it compliant, understand your tax position and make better financial decisions throughout your contracting career.
And if the way you work changes, Sapphire can support that too. With umbrella, PEO, CIS and global contracting services alongside limited company support, you don’t have to find a new provider every time your circumstances change.
Sharing success
Sapphire is employee-owned, meaning when the business does well, the people who make it possible share in it – including our contractors.
Every year, we distribute a profit-share bonus to contractors who have been with us for more than a year. This year, we surpassed over £1m paid directly to longstanding umbrella contractors who helped build what we have.
£1m+
paid directly to contractors since 2021
Contractor support you can rely on
ExcellentTrustpilot rating
100,000+Contractors supported
10,000+Contractor payments processed each week
£1m+Shared with contractors
8 yearsFCSA accredited
SafeRecReal-time payroll auditing
“Sapphire is a trusted, compliance-first partner. Alex is always on hand, respectful of our preferred ways of working and quick to resolve queries and payment issues. As umbrella legislation changes, their audit-ready approach and clear, timely communication give us and our contractors real confidence.”
Sophie Anderson, Associate Director, Venn Group
Frequently asked questions
What is a limited company contractor?
A limited company contractor runs their own business and works through it to provide services to clients. You become a director and shareholder of the company, which is a separate legal entity from you personally. This structure often gives you the most tax-efficient way to work and full control over your finances. Sapphire helps contractors set up and run their limited company with unlimited phone, video call and email support, plus first-class accounting software.
Should I contract through a limited company or an umbrella company?
It depends on your contracts and how much control you want. A limited company usually suits contractors working outside IR35 who want more flexibility over their take-home pay, or who run their own business. An umbrella company suits those working inside IR35 who prefer simplicity and PAYE. If you secure an additional contract inside IR35, Sapphire covers your umbrella payments at no extra cost, so you’re not paying twice to stay compliant.
What taxes does a limited company contractor pay?
A limited company pays corporation tax on company profits, plus you’ll pay personal tax on the income you draw as salary and dividends. The company also pays VAT where it applies. The way you structure your salary and dividends affects how much you pay overall. Sapphire provides proactive tax planning to help you draw income efficiently and stay on top of every deadline, so nothing catches you out.
What expenses can a limited company contractor claim?
A limited company contractor can claim expenses incurred wholly and exclusively for business purposes. These typically include:
• Accountancy fees and business software
• Travel and accommodation for work assignments
• Equipment and office costs
• Business insurance and pension contributions
• Training, personal development and professional subscriptions
Claiming the right expenses reduces your company’s taxable profit, which lowers its corporation tax bill. Sapphire’s accountants help you identify what you can claim and keep the records straight, so you get every allowance you’re entitled to without the guesswork.
What accounting records does a limited company contractor need to keep?
You need to keep records of company income, expenses, invoices, bank statements, payroll and VAT where it applies. These support your annual accounts, corporation tax return and any personal tax return. Accurate records keep you compliant and make tax planning far easier. Sapphire gives you first-class accounting software, so your records stay organised and up to date throughout the year.
How does IR35 affect limited company contractors?
IR35 decides whether you’re genuinely self-employed, or an employee for tax purposes. If a contract falls inside IR35, the worker must be taxed as an employee. If it falls outside IR35, you can operate via the usual company structure. Sapphire helps you understand where your contracts sit and, if you take an additional contract inside IR35, covers your umbrella payments at no extra cost.
How quickly can I set up a limited company with Sapphire?
Sapphire offers a fast-track company set up within 24 hours, so you can start contracting quickly. The comprehensive package includes a registered office service, first-class accounting software and unlimited phone, video call and email support, with no hidden costs. That means you get everything you need to run your company from day one, with proactive tax planning built in to keep you efficient and compliant. Get in touch to set up your company.
