Compare the UK’s best and most trusted umbrella companies in 2025!
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Compare your take home with the top 10 Umbrella companies in the UK!
Best Umbrella is a UK-based service that helps contractors and locums compare umbrella companies. The site offers tools like a pay calculator to estimate take-home pay after taxes and provides comparisons between PAYE and umbrella companies options. Best Umbrella focuses on finding accredited, compliant payroll providers, and aims to ensure contractors receive prompt, accurate payments. It also offers free consultations to help users identify the best payroll solutions for their needs.
What is PAYE?
Pay As You Earn (PAYE) is the UK government’s system for collecting Income Tax and National Insurance from your earnings. It ensures that taxes are automatically deducted from your salary before you even receive it, making tax payments seamless for employees.
PAYE vs. Umbrella Companies
While PAYE is a straightforward system for full-time employees, umbrella companies offer a flexible alternative for contractors and freelancers. Understanding the differences can help you make the best choice for your situation.
Software Solution
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Cyber Security
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Backup & Recovery
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Why do contractors choose umbrella companies?
Flexibility and Freedom
Umbrella companies allow contractors to work with multiple clients or agencies without needing to set up a limited company. This flexibility is ideal for those who value the freedom of contracting but want to avoid the complexities of running their own business.
Simplified Tax
Umbrella companies handle all tax deductions, including PAYE and National Insurance, making it easier for contractors to manage their finances. This means no self-assessment tax returns, as the umbrella company ensures compliance with HMRC, giving contractors peace of mind.
IR35 Legislation
Umbrella companies provide protection against the complexities of IR35, a tax legislation affecting contractors. By working through an umbrella, contractors are treated as employees, reducing the risk of being caught by IR35 and facing significant tax liabilities.
BEST UMBRELLA
Frequently Asked Questions
An umbrella company is a third-party organisation that acts as an employer for contractors working on fixed-term assignments. They handle your payroll, deduct taxes, and provide employment benefits, making it easier to manage your finances and stay compliant with tax laws.
If you prefer simplicity, want to avoid dealing with HMRC directly, and value the employment benefits an umbrella company offers, then using an umbrella company might be the best option. However, if you’re looking to maximiSe tax efficiency and are comfortable with the additional responsibilities, a limited company could be more advantageous.
Our payroll calculator estimates your take-home pay based on your day rate and the number of days you work. It factors in PAYE, National Insurance, and any other relevant deductions, providing you with a clear picture of your net income.
No, our payroll calculator is completely free to use. You can calculate your take-home pay as often as you like without any charges.
Yes, your personal information is secure with us. We only use your email and phone number to send you your payroll calculation results and relevant updates. We do not share your details with third parties.
Yes, you can switch from an umbrella company to a limited company if your contracting circumstances change. However, this process involves additional setup and responsibilities, so it’s important to weigh the pros and cons before making the switch.
Ready to get a best solution for your business?
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