A message from the HMRC:
We’re continuing to work closely with the Security Industry Authority (SIA) to help businesses in the private security sector understand and meet their tax responsibilities.
Our shared goal is to make sure workers who should be treated as employees are paid through payroll to:
· help protect their employment rights and benefits
· allow fair competition for businesses that follow the rules.
What we’re doing
Our joint operational activity with SIA across the UK is already delivering results. This includes targeted enforcement activity in Canterbury in March 2026 and more recently in Manchester in August 2026. A further update will follow.
We also ran a large-scale letter campaign to businesses in April 2025. This led to £48 million in additional PAYE and National Insurance contributions, after workers were moved onto payroll
We’ve also received information leading us to investigate a number of security companies including those involved in:
- organised labour fraud
- Code of Practice 9 – serious tax fraud.
Our message to the industry remains clear. We’re committed to helping businesses get their tax right, but we won’t hesitate to take firm action against those who choose not to comply.
Our YouTube video gives more information about HMRC's expectations for compliance in the private security industry.
How you can help
Please share this message through your networks and encourage private security businesses and workers to understand their responsibilities and take action if needed.