Virtual Tax Solutions for Pharmacists and Locums
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Expert Tax Advice for Pharmacists and Locum Professionals

Managing taxes can be challenging for pharmacists and locum professionals juggling multiple income streams and ever-changing regulations. We offer tailored tax consultancy and annual filing services to help you optimise deductions, navigate IR35 compliance, and save more money—all while staying stress-free and compliant.
Whether you’re self-employed, contracting through a limited company, or unsure about your employment structure, our personalised approach simplifies complex tax rules. By identifying all deductible expenses and ensuring timely submissions, we help you focus on your career without worrying about tax penalties or overpayments.
  • Your Taxes, Simplified Today
  • Expert Advice, Maximum Savings

Tax Challenges Every Pharmacist and Locum Faces

Pharmacists and locum professionals face a variety of tax challenges that can lead to unnecessary stress and financial loss. From complex regulations like IR35 to missed opportunities for savings, understanding and addressing these issues is critical. Below, we outline common problems and how our expert services provide effective solutions.

Employment Structure ChoicesDeciding between being a sole trader or running a limited company is a crucial decision that impacts your tax obligations. With our expert advice, we analyse your situation to recommend the most tax-efficient structure, saving you time, stress, and often thousands of pounds.
Claiming Allowable ExpensesOverlooking deductible expenses, such as mileage, CPD costs, and professional fees, leads to unnecessary tax payments. Our tailored guidance ensures you maximise claims, minimising your tax burden while adhering to HMRC regulations.
IR35 Compliance and Policy ChangesIR35 misclassification and evolving policies like Labour’s Single Worker Status can create significant financial and operational challenges. We specialise in IR35 reviews and strategic planning to ensure compliance and prepare you for any legislative updates, protecting your income and flexibility.
Meeting DeadlinesMissed deadlines can result in penalties and unnecessary stress. We provide proactive deadline management and handle your tax filings with precision, ensuring compliance and eliminating the risk of fines, so you can focus on your work.

Ready to Save on Taxes?

Take control of your finances with expert tax advice tailored for pharmacists and locum professionals. Book your free 15-minute consultation today to discover how we can help you maximise savings, simplify compliance, and eliminate stress.
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Tax Services for Pharmacists and Locums

Simplify taxes with expert support. Our tailored services help you save money, stay compliant, and focus on your career stress-free.

Tax Consultancy

Receive tailored advice to optimise your income, reduce tax liabilities, and plan for a financially secure future. Our expertise ensures your tax approach aligns perfectly with your unique circumstances.

Annual Tax Filing

We handle accurate preparation and submission of Self-Assessment Tax Returns or corporation filings. Let us take care of the paperwork so you can focus on your career without worries.

Expense Optimisation Guidance

Maximise deductions by identifying eligible expenses like travel costs, CPD courses, and professional membership fees. Our expert guidance ensures no potential savings are left on the table.

IR35 and Contract Reviews Assistance

Protect yourself from costly misclassification with thorough IR35 and agency contract assessments. We ensure compliance and minimise risks linked to employment structures.

VAT and Investment Planning

Get support for VAT registration, compliance, and exploring schemes like the Flat Rate Scheme. We also offer advice on tax-efficient pensions and investments to boost your savings.

Tax Return & IR35 Review

Price Starts From
£450+VAT
  • Tax Return Preparation and Filling
  • Tax Consultation
  • Professional Advice
  • Tax Planning
  • VAT & Investment Planning
  • Expense Optimization Guidance

Should I operate as a sole trader or form a limited company?

If you’re earning well, operating as a limited company could reduce your tax burden through strategies like paying dividends, which are taxed at a lower rate than income. However, it also comes with administrative responsibilities. Consulting a tax advisor is essential to determine the best structure for your earnings.

How can I minimise my tax liabilities legally?

You can reduce liabilities by claiming all allowable expenses, contributing to a pension scheme, and utilising tax-efficient investment options like ISAs. Keeping accurate records and seeking professional tax advice will ensure you maximise these opportunities.

Do I need to worry about IR35 compliance?

If you work through an agency or intermediary, IR35 rules could apply. Non-compliance can lead to unexpected PAYE and NIC charges. Regular contract reviews are crucial to ensure your arrangements reflect genuine self-employment status.

What expenses can I claim as a pharmacist?

Expenses like GPhC fees, travel costs, professional indemnity insurance, and CPD courses are typically deductible. Additionally, if you work from home for administrative tasks, a portion of your home office costs can also be claimed.

How can I plan for retirement while reducing my taxes?

Investing in a pension scheme provides immediate tax relief and secures long-term financial stability. High earners can take advantage of carry-forward rules to maximise contributions for the past three years, further reducing taxable income.

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A fantastic tax advisor firm! Buhir Rafique, the company owner is extremely capable of understanding the tax accounting needs of your specific industry, and is able to tailor solutions to meet your exact needs. We sat down and he took his time explaining exactly what he is doing, will do do in the future; this allowed to me get a better grasp on the accounting side of my business. I am a soletrader pharmacist locum; Buhir has managed to find government initiatives of VAT accounting to maximise my pay. All work is be done online, my job with regards to keeping track of my taxes is minimal in terms of bookkeeping, allowing me to focus on what is important. I live in the Cardiff, Lakeside area (CF23)- he operates both there and Bristol. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!!

E. Badr

A Locum Pharmacist from Cardiff

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Great service from Buhir. Personable, helpful advice. No pushy sales. Gave me really useful top tips and resources for self-assessment as a doctor. Many thanks indeed!

Neil

Local Bristol Doctor

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Excellent service. Buhir guided me through my self-assessment tax returns. He took the time to explain complex affairs in easy terms and was always quick to respond to any queries. Both Buhir and the team genuinely look after their customers. Will recommend to family/friends!

C. A. Williams

Doctor, Cardiff

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Buhir helped with some advise on my status as a self employed, contractor working through an umbrella company. The advice provided was professional, timely and helpful for me to make decisions around a personal pension. Would highly recommend.

S. Mortimer

Our Tax Client

What Is Single Worker Status and Why Does It Matter?

What Is Single Worker Status and Why Does It Matter

Worried about how new employment laws might affect you?
Labour’s proposal for a single worker status aims to unify worker categories, giving self-employed locums benefits like sick pay and redundancy protection. However, this could also bring tighter tax rules and reduce flexibility for locums.

Key Highlights:

  • Expanded Rights: Statutory benefits such as sick pay and maternity leave.
  • Tax Reclassification: Changes could increase PAYE and NIC obligations.
  • Flexibility Impact: Potential loss of self-employment freedoms.

Actionable Tip:
Stay updated on policy changes and seek tax advice to adjust your structure or contracts accordingly. Reviewing agreements proactively can protect your income.

Self-Employment vs. Limited Company: Which Is Better for Locums?

Confused about the best way to structure your locum work?
Whether you operate as self-employed or a limited company affects your tax efficiency. Limited companies offer benefits like reduced taxes through dividends but come with added administrative duties.

Key Highlights:

  • Self-Employment: Simpler setup, higher income tax rates.
  • Limited Company: Tax-efficient dividend strategies and more expense claims.
  • IR35 Risk: Regular reviews are vital to avoid reclassification.

Example:
A locum pharmacist saved over £3,000 annually by incorporating and using a salary-dividend strategy.

Actionable Tip:
Evaluate your income level and career goals to choose the right structure. Seek professional guidance for compliance with IR35 regulations if contracting through an agency.

Self-Employment vs. Limited Company: Which Is Better for Locums

How an Umbrella Company Helped a Locum Pharmacist Save on Taxes

One of your client, a locum pharmacist earning £70,000 annually, was struggling to manage her tax obligations. She operated as a sole trader and faced high income tax rates, with minimal understanding of allowable deductions. Unsure about IR35 rules, she worried about potential penalties while contracting through agencies.

The Problem

  • High Tax Burden: Sarah was paying income tax at the higher rate of 40%, with limited savings opportunities.
  • IR35 Risk: Her contracts with agencies left her vulnerable to misclassification under IR35, risking additional PAYE and NIC liabilities.
  • Missed Deductions: She wasn’t claiming expenses like mileage or professional fees, which inflated her taxable income unnecessarily.

The Solution
Sarah approached an umbrella company for support. The company:

  • Handled IR35 Compliance: By employing her through their structure, the umbrella company ensured full compliance with IR35, eliminating risks of penalties.
  • Optimised Tax Payments: They deducted allowable expenses directly, such as travel costs and GPhC fees, reducing her taxable income.
  • Streamlined Admin Tasks: With the umbrella company managing PAYE and NIC contributions, Sarah no longer needed to handle complex tax filings.

The Results

  • Tax Savings: By claiming £5,000 in deductible expenses through the umbrella company, Sarah’s taxable income was reduced, saving her over £2,000 annually.
  • Peace of Mind: Operating through an IR35-compliant umbrella company meant no risk of penalties or backdated taxes.
  • Time Efficiency: Sarah gained more time to focus on work and CPD, as the umbrella company took care of admin tasks.

Key Takeaways for Locums

  • IR35 Protection: An umbrella company can safeguard against reclassification risks.
  • Expense Management: Deducting expenses directly lowers taxable income.
  • Admin Support: Simplify tax management with a professional structure.

How Can You Maximise Allowable Expenses?

Virtual Tax Solutions for Pharmacists and Locums

Are you claiming every tax-deductible expense available?
Locum pharmacists often miss out on claiming eligible expenses like mileage, GPhC fees, and CPD costs. Properly tracking these can significantly reduce your tax bill.

Key Highlights:

  • GPhC Fees: Fully deductible (£257 annually).
  • Travel Expenses: Mileage or transport costs between work locations.
  • Professional Subscriptions: Membership fees for pharmacy organisations.

Example:
A locum saved £1,800 in taxes by properly claiming overlooked CPD course fees and home office costs.

Actionable Tip:
Keep meticulous records of all work-related expenses and receipts. Consult a tax advisor to ensure full compliance while maximising deductions.

What Should Locums Know About IR35 Compliance?

Concerned about IR35 and its impact on your income?
IR35 rules determine if you’re taxed as a self-employed contractor or an employee. Misclassification can lead to backdated taxes and significant penalties, making compliance essential for locum pharmacists.

Key Highlights:

  • Inside IR35: Higher PAYE and NIC liabilities, treated as an employee.
  • Outside IR35: Retain self-employment benefits and lower tax rates.
  • Key Factors: Level of control, substitution rights, and contract terms.

Example:
A locum pharmacist avoided a £5,500 tax penalty with a thorough IR35 contract review that confirmed their self-employment status.

Actionable Tip:
Use HMRC’s CEST tool to check your status and review contracts regularly with a professional to ensure compliance.

Virtual bookkeeping and compliance for pharmacies in UK

How Do Pension Contributions Save Locums Money?

Pension COntribution for Locum Tax

Want to reduce taxes and secure your future?
Pension contributions offer dual benefits: lowering taxable income today and ensuring financial stability in retirement. Locums can also utilise carry-forward allowances to maximise their contributions.

Key Highlights:

  • Tax Relief: Contributions reduce taxable income at your highest tax rate.
  • Annual Allowance: Up to £60,000 can be contributed tax-free.
  • Carry Forward: Use unused allowances from the past three years.

Example:
A pharmacist earning £85,000 saved £5,000 in taxes by contributing £20,000 to a pension plan.

Actionable Tip:
Work with a financial advisor to optimise your pension contributions and make the most of available tax reliefs and allowances.

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Are You Ready to Take Control of Your Taxes?

Our expert team handles everything from IR35 reviews to expense claims, ensuring you stay compliant and save money. Book your free consultation today and let us simplify your taxes.