HMRC is enforcing a sector-wide shift to PAYE (Pay As You Earn) for all licensable private security operatives by August 2025. This includes door supervisors, event security, festival staff, and close protection operatives, regardless of how often they work or whether they are currently self-employed.
Key Updates:
- Compliance letters were issued to over 12,500 security companies and 600 agents in April 2025.
- PAYE must be applied to all licensable staff. Self-employment is no longer acceptable for frontline roles.
- Subcontracting does not exempt employers from responsibility; due diligence is essential.
- HMRC will not endorse payroll providers. Claims of HMRC approval may breach advertising regulations.
- Targeted audits and direct communication with operatives will begin post-August.
Sector Feedback:
- Attendees at the NTIA-hosted webinar raised key concerns:
- Short-term workers and those with primary jobs elsewhere (e.g., construction) may exit the industry.
- Emergency tax codes and cumulative PAYE risks were highlighted, especially for multi-employer staff.
- Fears were raised over losing experienced operatives due to compliance burdens.
- Calls for clear guidance on payroll risks, subcontractor responsibilities, and support resources.
Next Steps:
- NTIA and HMRC committed to further webinars, FAQs, and resource packs.
- A compliance deadline grace period runs until early August, with enforcement following.
- Operators are urged to communicate transparently with staff and prepare accordingly.
- For further support, contact NTIA [email protected] or [email protected].
