What is an Umbrella Company?

The process of working under an umbrella company is different than contracting through a limited company. Read below to understand the differences between an umbrella company, recruitment agency and end client.

An umbrella company is a separate company that acts as an employer for contractors working on fixed-term contracts. They also serve as an intermediary between the contractor and their end client or agency. Its principle function is to organise payment for the contractor. To do this they collect the contractor’s earnings from the end client or agency and then pay it onto the contractor after tax and National Insurance Contributions are deducted.

Umbrella company vs limited company: how should you operate as a contractor?

Our video highlights the differences between contracting through your own limited company, and working through an umbrella company.

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Want flexibility in how you work?

We understand that having the right support is crucial, whether you're working through your own limited company or under an umbrella. That’s why we have launched margin free umbrella employment with a number of our packages – allowing you to seamlessly switch between limited and an umbrella company depending on your assignments or preferences.

If you’d like to find out more about our packages click the link below.

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How does an umbrella company work?

There are a number of steps you will take when you choose to work through an umbrella company:

1. Sign a contract with an umbrella company

The umbrella company will sign a contract with your recruitment agency. You will then sign an employment contract with the umbrella, and become an employee of it.

2. Submit your timesheet each week

As an umbrella employee, you will be required to submit a timesheet with information about all of the hours you have worked, along with any expenses to claim. Your umbrella company will invoice your agent/client for the work you have done and will receive funds for you from the agency.

3. The umbrella pays your wages

You are paid after tax and National Insurance Contributions are deducted. Your umbrella company will send you a payslip, and your wages will be paid directly into your bank account.