CIS Tax Refund UK: How Much Can You Get Back and How to Claim It
Are you a CIS subcontractor in the UK? You may be owed a tax refund. Find out how CIS tax works, how much you could claim back, and how to file your return correctly.
1/3/20262 min read
If you work in the construction industry as a subcontractor under the Construction Industry Scheme (CIS), there is a good chance you are paying too much tax — and are owed a refund.
This guide explains how CIS tax works, what you can claim, and how to make sure you get back everything you are entitled to.
What is the Construction Industry Scheme?
The Construction Industry Scheme is a set of HMRC rules that requires contractors to deduct tax from subcontractor payments before paying them. This deduction is sent directly to HMRC on your behalf.
Standard CIS deduction rate: 20%
Higher rate (if not registered): 30%
So if you earn £1,000 on a job, your contractor may pay you only £800, sending £200 straight to HMRC.
Why do most CIS workers get a refund?
The 20% deduction does not account for your expenses. As a self-employed subcontractor, you are allowed to deduct legitimate business expenses from your income before tax is calculated. These can include:
— Tools, equipment, and protective clothing
— Vehicle costs and mileage (for work travel, not commuting)
— Phone and data costs used for work
— Accountancy fees
— Subsistence when working away from home
Once your actual taxable income is calculated — after deducting allowable expenses and your personal allowance (£12,570 for the 2024–25 tax year) — most CIS workers find they have overpaid, and HMRC owes them money.
How much could you get back?
This varies based on your earnings and expenses, but CIS refunds of £500 to £2,000 or more are common for subcontractors earning between £20,000 and £40,000 per year. The only way to find out your exact refund is to file a Self Assessment tax return. HMRC does not automatically refund overpaid CIS tax — you have to claim it.
What is the deadline?
The Self Assessment deadline for online filing is 31 January each year. You can claim CIS refunds going back up to 4 tax years, so if you have not filed in previous years, it may not be too late.
How does the process work with TD Tax Return?
1. Get in touch — tell us your situation and we confirm what we need.
2. Send your documents — income figures, expense records, and your UTR number.
3. We prepare your return — carefully, with all allowable expenses accounted for.
4. You review and confirm — nothing is submitted without your approval.
5. We file with HMRC — and your refund is paid directly to you.
Fixed fee from £180. No hidden costs.
Ready to find out what you are owed?
Book a free consultation at tdtaxreturn.com or email info@tdtaxreturn.com.
Services available in English, Hungarian, and Romanian.
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