According to reports from global recruitment firm Randstad, the era of universal remote work is ending. Therefore, before writing a client request to work remotely or at home, here are some talking points to consider, along with a template guide.
Compliance
A good place to start is the compliance angle. Managers are often afraid of HR/Tax audits. By suggesting that you are staying remote to protect them from a tax bill, you make it much harder for them to say no.
Equipment
Another point is to highlight your equipment. Mention that you use your own laptop/software, which can be a major legal “green flag” for independent status.
Compromise
Offer a compromise. Use an agreed-upon completed milestone as your bargaining chip to show you aren’t being difficult, just professional.
The above is not necessarily enough to be granted independent worker status in the eyes of HMRC. That is because every client-freelancer relationship will be different.
However, even if the contract sounds like it is not employment, as the project progresses, if you have a gut feeling that something seems controlling or very much like disguised employment, then make it known to the client in a professional manner so both parties can ensure there is no wrongdoing. Check-ins and updates should be enough to keep a client happy, the project is making progress, and meeting milestones.
Here is a suggested sample template to help you inform the client before you start the project of your remote working request. If in doubt, go to a worker status expert to look over your contract and help you adjust your written request so there is no doubt of the independent nature of the working relationship.
Request for remote work (freelancer status clarification)
Subject: Professional Services Update: Work Location and [Project Name] Compliance
Dear [Client Name/Hiring Manager],
I am writing regarding our current engagement for [Project Name] and the recent updates concerning office attendance policies.
As an independent contractor providing services through [Your Business Name], I have reviewed my working practices to ensure they remain aligned with our current Contract for Services and local tax compliance standards (such as [IR35 / IRS Common Law] guidelines).
To maintain a clear distinction between my role as an external partner and your internal employees—and to avoid the legal risks associated with disguised employment, I am proposing the majority of the remaining deliverables be completed remotely.
My rationale for this is based on three key pillars of our B2B relationship:
Autonomy and control: Under our agreement, [Your Business Name] is responsible for determining the “manner and means” by which the services are performed. Managing my own work environment is a key indicator of my independent status.
Operational efficiency: Working from my own studio allows me to utilise my own hardware and software, ensuring no company resources are diverted to my setup, which further reinforces my status as an outside contractor.
Deliverables: My commitment is to the successful delivery of [specific milestone, e.g., the Q1 Security Audit]. I am confident my productivity on these tasks is highest when working in a focused, independent environment.
I am, of course, available for essential on-site meetings or milestone sessions where physical presence is objectively necessary for the project’s success. However, for day-to-day execution, I believe a remote-first approach protects both parties from potential reclassification risks by tax authorities.
I would be happy to discuss how we can formalise this in a Statement of Work (SOW) to ensure total clarity for your HR and compliance teams.
Best regards,
[Your Name] Director, [Your Business Name]
