How do you know which umbrella is right for you?

The number of umbrella companies in the UK is growing. With so much choice, how do you know which one to pick?

Churchill Knight Umbrella is committed to compliance within the industry, and we’re proud to be FCSA-accredited and SafeRec certified. Plenty of benefits are available to all of our employees – at no extra cost. We help thousands of contractors and freelancers get paid (PAYE) every week – efficiently and compliantly with HMRC rules and regulations. So, if you’re looking for an umbrella company you can trust, you’ve come to the right place. Please call our friendly team on 01707 871622.

Keep reading to learn what to look for when selecting an umbrella company to manage your payroll.

Benefits of using an umbrella company

There are many benefits of using an umbrella company for your payroll:

  • Compliance with UK tax law and HMRC legislation – Providing you use a compliant umbrella company, the correct tax deductions will be made to your pay and paid to HMRC on your behalf.
  • Inside IR35 status determination – If you are deemed inside IR35, you do not need to worry about IR35 as you’ll be taxed at source, like a permanent employee (PAYE).
  • Low cost – Umbrella companies will deduct a margin for their service, which is taken from your gross pay (before tax) and costs you a little less. A weekly margin is usually between £15 – £30, considerably less than that of a contractor accountant!
  • Continuity of employment – Your umbrella company will remain your sole employer, allowing you to work for multiple clients. Continuity of employment also helps when you apply for financial services such as a loan or mortgage.
  • Employee benefits – You’ll have access to employee benefits, including Sick Pay, Maternity Pay and Paternity Pay, just like a permanent employee.
  • Insurance – Most compliant umbrella companies will provide free insurance cover (Professional Indemnity, Public Liability, and Employer’s Liability Insurance) as part of the service.
  • Minimal administration – Unlike running a limited company, umbrella companies are a straightforward way to get paid, and once you have registered, there is very little ongoing administration (if any).

Searching for an umbrella company - a helpful checklist for contractors

We’ve created a short list of questions to ask when speaking to an umbrella company you are interested in joining:

  • What is their margin?
  • Are they accredited by the FCSA?
  • Are they a SafeRec certified umbrella company?
  • Is there a minimum tie-in period?
  • Which types of insurance are provided?
  • Are there any exclusions within the insurance policies?
  • Do they charge any additional fees? For example, for Same Day Faster Payments.
  • When did the company begin trading?
  • Do they work with your recruitment agency or end client?

Why use Churchill Knight Umbrella?

Setting the standards

We're one of the most recognised umbrellas in the UK.

Excellent processes

We've streamlined the sign up process. Support is always available.

Accurate pay calculations

Our calculations are based entirely on your circumstances.

A big network

We have excellent relationships with the biggest agencies.

Brilliant reviews

We have great reviews on both Google and Trustpilot.

Accredited by the FCSA

Churchill Knight Umbrella is a member of the FCSA.

Accredited by SafeRec

We are one of the first SafeRec certified umbrellas.

No hidden costs

You can use our service with complete peace of mind.

Employee benefits

Including Sick Pay and Maternity/Paternity Pay.

Continuity of employment

This makes it easier for you to get external finance.

Insurance

£25 million insurance cover is include in our service.

Same Day Faster Payments

You will receive your funds the same day we pay you.

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