Umbrella

Umbrella
Simplified Contracting, Full Statutory Benefits
When you join our Umbrella Payroll service, you become a direct employee of our company, even while working on short term contracts or freelance assignments. We handle every payroll step, from reviewing timesheets and deducting PAYE and National Insurance to submitting your RTI and pension contributions, and issuing your payslip, all from our automated payroll system. This means you get statutory benefits such as holiday pay, sick pay, maternity / paternity leave, and workplace pension enrolment just like a permanent employee.
Umbrella payroll offers continuity of employment which is vital when applying for credit, visas, or mortgages, as well as administrative simplicity. You skip setting up your own company and avoid complex tax filings. Everything is managed for you, including invoicing to agencies or clients and secure, on time payments after deductions. It’s a compliant, hassle free solution ideally suited for IR35 compliant contracting and flexible workforce management
Why Choose Our Umbrella Payroll Scheme
Statutory Employee Benefits
As our employee, you gain access to paid holiday, sick pay, maternity / paternity rights, workplace pension contribution, and other statutory protections.
No Lock-In Period
Enjoy the flexibility to start or stop at any time without exit fees or commitments. Umbrella suits short assignments and intermittent contracting perfectly.
Umbrella – FAQ
Find answers to commonly asked questions about our Umbrella Payroll Scheme:
1. How does the Umbrella Payroll service work?
When you join our Umbrella service, you become an employee of our company. We invoice your agency or client, deduct PAYE tax, National Insurance (employer and employee), apprenticeship levy, and our admin fee, then pay your net salary. We manage RTI submissions, timesheet validation, and statutory deductions, ensuring efficient, compliant pay runs.
2. Am I automatically auto-enrolled into a pension scheme?
Yes. As our employee, you are enrolled automatically into a workplace pension within 12 weeks, in line with legal requirements. You do have the right to opt out if you choose.
3. Can I still take breaks between contracts?
Yes. Umbrella Payroll offers flexibility. There are no ties or long term commitments. You can join and leave at any time without exit fees, making it suitable for casual or short-term contract work.
4. How do I submit my timesheets?
Simply send your signed timesheets via our secure portal or email. We review, validate, and submit them for payroll processing. Payslips are issued once your funds are received from the agency / client.
5. What benefits do I receive as an Umbrella employee?
Under our service you qualify for statutory benefits including holiday pay, sick pay, maternity / paternity pay, and automatic enrolment into a workplace pension scheme. Some providers may also offer extras like legal support, childcare vouchers, wellness programs, and salary sacrifice options.
6. Is the umbrella service compliant with HMRC and IR35 rules?
Yes. We process all payments via the PAYE system and deduct tax and NI contributions correctly. This ensures full compliance with UK tax law, IR35 regulations, and HMRC reporting standards.
7. Can I use an Umbrella Company when working inside IR35?
Some assignment related expenses are allowable. Such as mileage, hotels, or professional costs, if they meet HMRC criteria. However, if your workplace is considered permanent under IR35 rules, travel and subsistence may not qualify.
8. Are travel and subsistence expenses claimable under the scheme?
Some assignment related expenses are allowable. Such as mileage, hotels, or professional costs, if they meet HMRC criteria. However, if your workplace is considered permanent under IR35 rules, travel and subsistence may not qualify.
Testimonials
Hear what our satisfied clients have to say about their experiences with us.
I can’t speak highly enough of the team at Mars Payroll. They deliver precise payroll runs, meet every deadline, and are always just a phone call away when I have a query.

Tony Johnston – Product Director
We’ve partnered with Mars Payroll for several years now and couldn’t be happier. Their team is professional, responsive, and always efficient. Payroll now runs like clockwork. Stress free and accurate every time.

Helen Salt – Finance Director
Switching to Mars Payroll transformed our payroll processes. They handled the transition seamlessly, responded promptly, and now manage everything accurately and effortlessly each month.

Charles Flower – CFO
After using several providers, I found Mars Payroll to be by far the most reliable and user-friendly. They are always helpful, quick to assist, and absolutely trustworthy.

Joyce O’Leary – Director
Let’s Get Started Together!
Get in touch today to discover how our tailored payroll solutions. Whether Umbrella, CIS, PAYE, or Hybrid can streamline your operations, ensure compliance, and boost efficiency. Complete the form, and one of our expert advisers will contact you within one business day to guide your journey.
