Umbrella SolutionNovember 29, 202410 Top Umbrella Companies in the UK

Hey there, contractor! Whether you’re just stepping into the world of contracting in the UK or are a seasoned pro, choosing the right umbrella company is a big deal.

Your umbrella company will play a vital role in handling your pay, staying on top of tax compliance, and taking care of all those admin details that can be tough to manage on your own.

Getting this choice right can mean the difference between a smooth, worry-free contracting experience and one bogged down by hidden fees or compliance issues.

Umbrella companies are here to make life easier, acting as a bridge between you and your client. They handle things like payroll, taxes, and even insurance, letting you focus on what you do best.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the top umbrella companies in the UK. We’ll cover everything you need to know—from their features and benefits to Trustpilot ratings and payment processing times—so you can make an informed decision about the one that’s right for you.

Highlights:

• Global Reach: Deel’s extensive network across 150+ countries.
• Customer Service: 24/7 support is available in-app, with local payroll experts in various jurisdictions.
• Platform Integrations: Deel integrates with popular platforms like Quickbooks and Greenhouse.
• Self-Service Capabilities: Contractors can easily navigate the platform, with quick identity verification often completed in minutes.

Pricing:

• Contractor Plan: $49 per contractor/month for payroll and compliance in 150+ countries.
• Full-Time Employee Plan: Starting from $500, this plan provides EOR services for international hiring.

Additional Important Aspects:

• Tax Compliance: Deel is fully tax compliant, adhering to local regulations across supported countries.
• Payment Processing Speed: Payments are processed quickly with options to customize payment methods and currencies.
• Expense Model: Deel supports automated invoicing and streamlined expense management, though expense claims may have some limitations in certain jurisdictions.
• Fees: A flat fee per payout ($5) is applied, along with charges for advanced services like onboarding automation.
• Experience: With a tech-first approach and a global focus from the beginning, Deel brings robust experience in managing international payroll and compliance.

Trustpilot Rating

Deel has a Trustpilot rating of 4.7/5, reflecting positive reviews for customer service and platform reliability.

Pamgro is a top-tier Umbrella company in the UK with a presence in over 150 countries. Unlike other companies, Pamgro emphasises a personalised approach, ensuring every contractor and recruiter receives the highest level of service and compliance.

Highlights:

• Global Reach: With operations in 150+ countries, Pamgro is truly a one-stop shop for contractors and companies. Whether you’re expanding or working internationally, Pamgro handles all the compliance, tax, and payroll details effortlessly.
• Compliance Assurance: Pamgro ensures full compliance with local laws and global regulations, which means contractors and businesses can operate confidently without worrying about legal complications.
• Tailored Solutions: Understanding that every contractor and company is unique, Pamgro offers customized services to meet specific needs.
• 24/5 Dedicated Support: Pamgro’s standout feature is its dedicated relationship managers, available round-the-clock to provide assistance, answer questions, and resolve any issues.
• Work Authorization Support: Pamgro aids in obtaining work authorization for contractors and navigating local requirements with ease.
• Comprehensive Benefits Management: Contractors can access custom benefits packages, including parental leave, sick leave, and other types of leave, making it a well-rounded solution for global HR needs.
• Insurance Coverage: Comprehensive insurance includes £10 million in employer liability, £10 million in public liability, and £10 million in professional indemnity insurance.
• Tax Relief on Allowable Expenses: Eligibility to claim tax relief on allowable business expenses, enhancing take-home pay.

Pricing

• Contractor Services: At £199  per contractor per month, Pamgro’s pricing is one of the most affordable options. It covers comprehensive payroll and compliance for contractors globally.
• Full-Time EOR Services: This plan, starting from £99 per employee, is tailored for companies looking to expand internationally without establishing a local entity.

Additional Important Aspects

• Tax Compliance: Pamgro is fully tax compliant across all operational regions, strictly adhering to local laws without engaging in “schemes.”
• Speed of Payment Processing: Pamgro processes payments quickly, with same-day payment options in many regions.
• Expense Model: Pamgro supports claimable expenses, providing contractors with an easy-to-use platform for expense tracking and submission.
• Fees: With transparent, fixed pricing and no hidden fees, Pamgro stands out as one of the most cost-effective umbrella solutions in the industry.
• Experience: With over 15 years of specialized industry experience, Pamgro has a long-standing reputation for delivering reliable, high-quality umbrella services to contractors and companies worldwide.

FSCA Accreditation

Pamgro holds FSCA accreditation, ensuring that its services meet the highest industry standards for compliance, transparency, and contractor protection.

Trustpilot Rating

Pamgro enjoys a Trustpilot rating of 4.8/5, reflecting consistent positive feedback from contractors and companies.

Highlights:

• Full HRIS and Payroll Suite: Rippling offers a complete HRIS along with global payroll capabilities, providing end-to-end solutions for HR management, payroll, and contractor payments.
• Work Authorization Support: Rippling aids in obtaining work authorization for contractors and navigating local requirements with ease.
• Comprehensive Benefits Management: Contractors can access custom benefits packages, including parental leave, sick leave, and other types of leave, making it a well-rounded solution for global HR needs.

Pricing

Since Rippling’s Umbrella services come as part of a comprehensive HR suite, the cost depends on the chosen modules.

Custom quotes are available on their website based on specific business needs.

Additional Important Aspects

• Tax Compliance: Rippling ensures tax compliance across all regions, with automatic updates for location-based regulations.
• Payment Processing Speed: Payments are handled promptly with flexible scheduling options, allowing companies to pay contractors overseas efficiently.
• Expense Model: Rippling supports expense tracking and reimbursement within its HRIS, making it easy for contractors to claim approved expenses.
• Experience: Rippling’s global payroll services bring years of HR expertise to the international market. It is known as a leader in the HRIS and payroll industry.

FSCA Accreditation

Rippling is not FSCA accredited, as it functions as a global HRIS and payroll platform rather than a UK-specific umbrella company.

Trustpilot Rating

As of the latest check, Rippling holds a Trustpilot rating of 4.2/5.

Highlights:

• Comprehensive Benefits: Danbro offers private medical and dental care through BUPA, a private pension scheme, and access to exclusive discounts via Danbro Rewards.
• Insurance Coverage: Contractors receive Public Liability, Professional Indemnity, and Employers’ Liability Insurance.
• Dedicated Support: Contractors have access to dedicated payroll teams and HR support.

Pricing:

Danbro operates on a fixed margin model, with a weekly fee of £28 deducted from the contractor’s rate before tax and National Insurance contributions.

Additional Important Aspects:

• Tax Compliance: Danbro’s FCSA accreditation confirms adherence to UK tax laws and industry standards, ensuring contractors avoid tax risks.
• Payment Processing Speed: Same-day payments provide contractors with quick access to their earnings.
• Expense Model: Contractors can claim tax relief on mileage expenses, enhancing take-home pay for those who frequently travel for work.
• Experience: With over 25 years in the industry, Danbro’s extensive experience makes them a reliable choice for UK contractors.

Trustpilot Rating:

Danbro holds a Trustpilot rating of 4.7 out of 5, reflecting positive feedback from contractors.

Highlights:

• FCSA Accredited & SafeRec Certified: Churchill Knight’s dual accreditation guarantees high standards for compliance and payroll accuracy, with SafeRec’s AI-powered payslip audits adding an extra layer of transparency.
• Comprehensive Insurance Coverage: Contractors are covered with £25 million in public liability, employer liability, and professional indemnity insurance.
• Same-Day Payments: Using Faster Payments, contractors receive their earnings on the same day, offering quick access to funds.

Pricing

Churchill Knight charges a weekly fee of £25, which covers payroll processing, insurance, and access to benefits.

Additional Important Aspects

• Tax Compliance: The FCSA accreditation confirms full adherence to UK tax laws.
• Payment Processing Speed: Payments are processed Quickly, providing reliable, fast access to earnings.
• Expense Model: Due to HMRC guidelines, expense claims are limited, which may affect contractors accustomed to broader deductions.

Trustpilot Rating

Churchill Knight has a Trustpilot rating of 4.5/5.

Highlights:

• Fast and Easy Registration: Contractor Umbrella provides a straightforward online registration process, enabling contractors to start working promptly.
• Employee Benefits: Employees have access to various benefits, including an Employee Rewards Scheme, Group Pension Scheme, and Contractor Mortgages.
• Service Guarantee: The company ensures high levels of service through its Service Guarantee, aiming to look after employees and clients at every step.

Pricing

Contractor Umbrella operates on a fixed-fee structure, charging a weekly margin of £25.

Additional Important Aspects

• Tax Compliance: As an accredited member of the Freelancer and Contractor Services Association (FCSA), the company adheres to industry standards and UK tax laws.
• Payment Processing Speed: The company offers same-day payments as standard, provided funds are received into their account by 9 am.
• Expense Model: Contractor Umbrella allows contractors to claim tax relief on mileage expenses, potentially increasing take-home pay for those who travel frequently for work.
• Experience: With over two decades in the industry, Contractor Umbrella’s extensive experience makes them a reliable choice for UK contractors

Trustpilot Rating

Contractor Umbrella holds a Trustpilot rating of 4.5 out of 5.

Highlights:

• Efficient Service: SG Umbrella offers a direct line to named contacts, eliminating the need for call centers. Their fast-onboarding process utilizes Credas technology, and they provide reliable, accurate daily payments.
• Value for Money: With a fixed margin of just £12 per week and no minimum contract, SG Umbrella provides cost-effective services. They also offer salary sacrifice options in your preferred pension scheme.
• Expertise: Run by contractor accountants, SG Umbrella offers advice on limited companies, IR35, and tax matters. They are affiliated with SG Accounting, providing additional support for limited company accounting needs.

Pricing

SG Umbrella charges a fixed weekly fee of £12, which covers payroll processing, insurance, and access to its services.

Additional Important Aspects

• Tax Compliance: As an FCSA-accredited company, SG Umbrella adheres to UK tax laws and industry standards, ensuring contractors remain compliant.
• Payment Processing Speed: SG Umbrella provides reliable and accurate daily payments, ensuring contractors receive their earnings promptly.
• Expense Model: While specific expense models are not detailed, SG Umbrella offers salary sacrifice into preferred pension schemes, potentially enhancing tax efficiency.
• Experience: Operated by seasoned contractor accountants, SG Umbrella brings substantial expertise to support contractors effectively.

Trustpilot Rating

SG Umbrella holds a TrustScore of 4.9 out of 5, based on 110 reviews.

Highlights:

• Statutory Benefits: Access to statutory sick pay, maternity/paternity pay, holiday pay, and workplace pension schemes.
• Insurance Coverage: Comprehensive insurance includes £10 million in employer liability, £10 million in public liability, and £10 million in professional indemnity insurance.
• Tax Relief on Allowable Expenses: Eligibility to claim tax relief on allowable business expenses, enhancing take-home pay.

Pricing

PayStream charges a weekly fee of £27, deducted from the contractor’s rate before tax and National Insurance contributions.

Additional Important Aspects

• Tax Compliance: FCSA accreditation ensures adherence to UK tax laws and industry standards.
• Payment Processing Speed: PayStream is known for prompt payments, often processing them on the same day.
• Expense Model: Contractors who regularly travel to multiple sites may be eligible to claim tax relief on allowable business expenses.
• Experience: With extensive experience in the industry, PayStream has built a reputation for reliability and contractor satisfaction.

Trustpilot Rating

PayStream boasts an impressive rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars.

Highlights:

• Flexible Umbrella Packages: Contractors can choose from three packages, starting from a weekly margin of £22, each offering varying benefits to suit individual needs.
• Comprehensive Payroll Management: Giant Group handles all payroll aspects, including tax deductions and National Insurance contributions.
• Additional Benefits: Depending on the chosen package, access benefits like pension planning options and private medical insurance.

Pricing

Giant Group operates on a fixed margin model, with weekly fees starting from £22, deducted from the contractor’s rate before tax and National Insurance contributions.

Additional Important Aspects

• Tax Compliance: FCSA accreditation confirms adherence to UK tax laws and industry standards.
• Payment Processing Speed: Giant Group offers same-day faster payments and daily payrolls.
• Expense Model: Contractors may be eligible to claim tax relief on allowable business expenses.
• Experience: With over three decades in the industry, Giant Group’s extensive experience makes them a reliable choice for UK contractors.

Trustpilot Rating

As of November 2024, Giant Group holds a Trustpilot rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars.

Highlights:

• Quick and Easy Setup: Contractors can register and begin working within minutes, streamlining the onboarding process.
• Full Employment Rights: Workwell Umbrella provides contractors with full employment rights, including pension contributions, holiday pay, sick pay, and maternity/paternity leave.
• Online Portal Access: Contractors have 24/7 access to an online portal for managing timesheets, payslips, and other important documents, enhancing transparency and convenience.

Pricing:

Workwell Umbrella operates on a fixed margin model, with a weekly fee of £15 deducted from the contractor’s rate before tax and National Insurance contributions.

Additional Important Aspects:

• Tax Compliance: Workwell Umbrella’s FCSA accreditation confirms adherence to UK tax laws and industry standards.
• Payment Processing Speed: Real-time payment notifications provide contractors with quick access to their earnings.
• IR35 Advice: Contractors receive guidance on IR35 status, helping them navigate complex tax legislation.

Trustpilot Rating:

Workwell Umbrella holds a Trustpilot rating of 4.7 out of 5.

Choosing the right umbrella company goes beyond just finding low fees. Here are the essential factors to consider:

• Compliance with UK Tax Laws:

Ensure the company adheres to UK tax standards, including IR35 regulations. Look for FCSA or similar accreditations that demonstrate regulatory compliance.

• Transparent Fees:

Opt for a company with a clear, straightforward fee structure. Avoid those with hidden costs, as these can impact your earnings over time.

• Insurance Coverage:

Check that the employer’s liability, public liability, and professional indemnity insurance are included. Comprehensive coverage provides essential protection for contractors.

• Payment Terms and Speed:

Reliable, prompt payments are essential for maintaining cash flow. Look for companies offering same-day payments or daily payrolls with real-time notifications.

• Customer Support and Accessibility:

Companies with dedicated account managers or direct points of contact offer quicker, more personalized assistance. A 24/7 online portal is also valuable for managing payslips and timesheets at your convenience.

• Flexibility in Benefits and Perks:

Some umbrella companies offer additional perks, such as access to pensions, holiday pay, or contractor rewards programs. Consider companies that align with your needs for maximum value.

For a complete guide, read our detailed blog: How to Choose the Right Umbrella Company.