CIS Card

The CIS card is a card that you get after you start working under the Construction Industry Scheme. With it, you’re giving contractors evidence that you’re a registered self-employed construction worker working under CIS.

How does the CIS card work?

The main purpose of having a CIS card is to use it as proof that you’re registered for CIS and to get paid correctly via the scheme. Without it, you may not be accepted onto certain jobs.

After you register for the Construction Industry Scheme, 20% is deducted from your salary by your employer. This is then sent to HMRC. Often this is more than you should be paying. This means that in April, at the start of each new tax year, you’ll likely be eligible to claim a refund, known as the CIS rebate. For most CIS construction workers, this amounts to about £2,000.

How do I apply for a card?

First, it’s important that you register as You must do this by 5th October in any given tax year. You do this so that HMRC knows that you need to file a tax return – and once you’ve registered, you’ll receive what’s known as a Unique Taxpayer Reference UTR) number. You’ll need to provide thi to get your CIS card.

Next, you should register for CIS either online via the CIS helpline. Give them a call on 0300-200-3210, Monday to Friday, 8am-6pm.