Status Determination Statement (SDS) Generator (IR35)
Generate a client-ready SDS with clear reasons and supporting evidence. Get a free preview first — pay only to download the PDF/ZIP.
- Free preview in-browser (no payment to assess)
- SDS includes decision + reasons (with cited contract excerpts)
- Downloadable PDF + ZIP pack (for sharing and recordkeeping)
- Built for UK off-payroll (IR35) workflows
- Optional audit file for "reasonable care" records
- No account required. Files are processed securely.
Fill in the form to generate an SDS preview
Upload a contract PDF/DOCX. We’ll extract the key status factors and produce an SDS preview. You can review the decision and reasoning before downloading.
- Best results: text-based PDF or DOCX (scanned PDFs may take longer)
- Tip: include the Statement of Work if available
- Important: You must be the end client (or authorised) to issue an SDS
What is a Status Determination Statement (SDS)?
A Status Determination Statement (SDS) is the written determination an end client provides under the UK off-payroll working rules (IR35). It states whether the engagement would be treated as employment for tax purposes if the worker were contracted directly, and it must include the reasons for that conclusion.
If you’re a contractor: you can use this tool to understand likely status, but only the end client (or an authorised party acting for them) can issue the SDS.
What you get in the SDS pack
SDS PDF
Decision + reasons written clearly for sharing with all parties in the supply chain.
Evidence highlights
The clauses/phrases that drove each factor, making your determination transparent.
Key factor summary
Control, substitution, mutuality/engagement style, equipment, financial risk, and more.
Download bundle (ZIP)
Supporting files for recordkeeping (optional audit file if enabled).
Free preview. Payment only required for downloads.
What makes an SDS "valid" in practice?
To be useful in a real process, an SDS should be clear, specific, and backed by evidence.
- States the status outcome (employment for tax purposes vs not)
- Includes reasons (not just "inside/outside")
- References the contract terms and, where relevant, working practices
- Keeps a record of the assessment to support "reasonable care"
- Includes a clear disagreement route (who to contact)
How it works
1
Upload your contract
PDF or DOCX format supported
2
Review free preview
See the decision + reasons before paying
3
Download SDS pack
PDF/ZIP after payment
4
Save for records
Keep in engagement file for audits
Disagreement process (what happens if the worker challenges the SDS?)
If the worker (or deemed employer in the chain) disagrees with the SDS, the client should have a clear process for receiving representations and responding with either confirmation (with reasons) or a new SDS.
Important: Add your organisation contact details to make the process explicit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can issue an SDS?
Only the end client (or an authorised party acting for them) can issue the SDS. Contractors can use the tool for insight, but it doesn’t replace the client’s obligation.
Is "inside/outside IR35" enough for an SDS?
A strong SDS should include the decision and the reasons behind it, not just a label.
Do I need an SDS for every engagement?
If off-payroll rules apply to the client and the engagement is in scope, you typically need an SDS for each engagement/role.
Does the SDS depend on working practices or just the contract?
Both can matter. Contracts should reflect reality; working practices can change the practical status.
Can I generate an SDS from a Statement of Work (SoW) only?
You can, but results are better with the main contract plus SoW.
What file types do you support?
PDF and DOCX. Text-based PDFs work best; scanned PDFs may take longer.
Do you store the uploaded documents?
Not stored.
Is this HMRC-approved?
No third-party tool is “approved” in that sense. This tool helps structure an SDS with clear reasons and evidence.
Disclaimer
Important: Docoply provides automated analysis to support decision-making. This output is for informational purposes and does not constitute legal or tax advice. The end client remains responsible for issuing an SDS and ensuring determinations reflect the engagement’s actual working practices.