What is an Umbrella Company

When working for an Agency, you may be given the choice to be paid either directly by them or be given an enhanced rate, which is the rate that an agency would pay to Universal Project Services.

This higher rate includes a number of costs associated with your engagement, such as holiday pay. If you choose to be paid through Universal Project Services, we will make deductions from the agency income received and then calculate your pay. The deductions we make include our national insurance contributions, tax and our fee.

How do umbrella companies work?
Umbrella companies work by employing temporary workers on the same basis as any other business employs staff, with all of their income going through the PAYE system. This means that as an employee you would be provided with a Contract of Employment, ensuring full employment rights and statutory benefits

At the start of your employment it is agreed that you will have a series of assignments at different locations, and on this basis you should be able to benefit from any travelling and subsistence costs associated with carrying out work at your temporary workplace.
What are the benefits of working for an Umbrella Company?
Employees of Universal Project Services have the advantage of being able to offset certain legitimate business expenses to reduce their tax and national insurance. At Universal Project Services we take our responsibility seriously and our expenses team is tightly managed to ensure you remain compliant.

Our expenses policy shows clearly what an allowable business expense is, “Expenses must be incurred wholly, exclusively and necessarily in the performance of your duties”. Please see our expenses pack for full details.
What if I have any further questions?
Please call our New Business Team on 020 8221 1157