Starting as a contractor - Choose the right umbrella company

[Gius]

Hello guys,

I'm starting working as a contractor, and I have to decide what umbrella company to go for. It's all new to me
My recruitment agency recommended Liberty Bishop. I've looked a bit into them and they sound ok. I also looked at various contractors websites to understand how to 'move' in these circumstances.

Do you recommend anything else? Any umbrella company to avoid?
Any help would be appreciated

Thanks!

[northernladuk]

Contractor Umbrella without a doubt. Lucy who runs the show posts on here regularly and they've been heavily involved in a lot of the legislation side affecting us as well.

Give her a bell and mention CUK and I am sure they will look after you.... If she doesn't come and say hello first.

[WTFH]

I used LB in my very early days (recommended by the agency). Based on the agency, I'd not go with any of their recommendations now. Try Lucy at Contractor Umbrella.

[eek]

The best place to check is the list of umbrellas on all umbrellas are equal (created by Contractor umbrella but entirely separate). It has multiple lists:-

• Umbrella companies that are members (LIberty Bishop is one)
• Umbrella companies that are pending members
• Umbrella companies that have been invited to join
• Ones to avoid like the plague.

The question I would be asking your agency are what umbrella company's do they support (any sensible agency will have a list of acceptable options) and whether the agency receives a commission from the umbrella.

Then find the one that meets the combination of cost and service that you want.

But if you haven't noticed Contractor Umbrella is usually recommended around here as we can all call Lucy if there are problems.

[Gius]

But if you haven't noticed Contractor Umbrella is usually recommended around here as we can all call Lucy if there are problems.

Thanks guys, very useful answers.

How can I get in touch with Lucy for a chat? Could you help?

[MrMarkyMark]

Thanks guys, very useful answers.

How can I get in touch with Lucy for a chat? Could you help?

She just posted on this thread, I suggest you PM her.

http://forums.contractoruk.com/umbre...paystream.html

[northernladuk]

Thanks guys, very useful answers.

How can I get in touch with Lucy for a chat? Could you help?

Erm.. Google not work up your neck of the woods or something??

PAYE Umbrella Companies for UK Contractors | Contractor Umbrella Company

[craigy1874]

Any reason why so set on umbrella over limited company?

[Gius]

Only because I've taken a short term contract (3 months). If it gets extended for more than 9 months then I'll set up a limited company.

[Gius]

Erm.. Google not work up your neck of the woods or something??

PAYE Umbrella Companies for UK Contractors | Contractor Umbrella Company

Yeah I've phoned them and talk to a guy. Lucy is on holiday apparently.