SmartWork

01/06/2026

Two months ago, new rules came into force that changed how tax liability works for umbrella company contractors in the UK.

If you work through an umbrella company, the good news is that these rules are actually designed to protect you. But they only work if your umbrella is doing things properly.

Back in January, we wrote a straightforward guide explaining exactly what's changed, what it means for you, and what to look out for. No jargon, no waffle — just the stuff that actually matters.

👇 Link in the comments.

26/05/2026

Good news if you're an umbrella contractor who uses your own car for work! 🚗

HMRC has just increased the approved mileage rate from 45p to 55p per mile. The first increase in over 15 years. And it's backdated to 6 April 2026, meaning you may already be owed more than you've been paid.

We've written a simple guide on the SmartWork blog explaining exactly what's changed and what you should do next.

Link in the comments. 👇

20/05/2026

Did you know that working through an umbrella company gives you continuous employment, even between assignments? 🙌

That single fact can make a real difference when you're applying for a mortgage, building up your statutory rights, or simply wanting the security of knowing where you stand.

The Employment Rights Act 2025 has made those protections even stronger, and we've updated our guide to make sure you know exactly what you're entitled to - from unfair dismissal cover after just six months, to clearer payslips and a new route to resolve disputes through the Fair Work Agency.

It's a straightforward read and well worth five minutes of your time.

Link in the comments. 👇

Got questions about how any of this applies to your situation?

Drop us a message or speak to one of our business managers; we're always happy to help. 😊

12/05/2026

New to contracting? Not sure whether an umbrella company is right for you?

We have just updated our guide to umbrella companies, written in plain English for anyone exploring their options.

It covers how the payment process works, what employment rights you get, how to spot a compliant provider, and what the recent changes to industry regulation mean for contractors.

Worth a read before you sign up with anyone.

Link in the comments. 👇

07/05/2026

No comment necessary on this review from Matt. 😊

We're just so proud of our team for consistently delivering a five-star service.

What else would you expect from the good guys of the umbrella world? 😉

30/04/2026

Are you making the most of your pension options as an umbrella worker? 🎯

Working through an umbrella company gives you flexibility in your career, but what about flexibility in your retirement planning?

If you've heard the term "SIPP" and wondered what it means, you're not alone. A Self-Invested Personal Pension could be a great option if you want more control over your financial future.

Why SIPPs work well for umbrella workers:

✅ Flexible contributions that match your variable income
✅ Consolidate multiple pension pots from different contracts
✅ Choose your own investments from thousands of options
✅ Significant tax benefits and immediate government top-ups

The pension landscape is complex, but it doesn't have to be overwhelming.

With the right approach, you can build a retirement fund that works as hard as you do.

At SmartWork, we've made it simple to set up SIPP contributions through our payroll, working with all major providers, including our friends, Interactive Investor.

Ready to take control of your 'future you' fund?

👉 Link to our jargon-free guide in the comments

29/04/2026

Let's end the confusion with an easy-to-understand guide.

Link in the comments. 👇

23/04/2026

Smooth. It's just how we operate.

How is your umbrella experience?

21/04/2026

Contractors are particularly vulnerable.

Are you an umbrella worker overpaying tax? You might not even know it.

HMRC overcharged workers by £3.5 billion in a single year — an average of £625 per person. And because HMRC has no obligation to flag it, most people have no idea it's happened.

Contractors are particularly vulnerable. Complex income histories, multiple engagements, and frequent job changes all increase the chances of an incorrect tax code going unnoticed.

The good news? You can check and correct your tax position right now — and it doesn't have to be complicated.

We've written a straightforward guide on what to look for and what to do.

Link in the comments 👇

16/04/2026

If you work through an umbrella company, recent changes to employment law affect you directly, and mostly for the better.

The Employment Rights Act 2025, combined with HMRC's updated PAYE rules coming into force this month, introduces some of the most significant improvements to umbrella worker rights in years. We're talking stronger day-one protections, clearer payslips, earlier unfair dismissal cover, and a much-reduced risk of being caught out by a non-compliant umbrella.

We've put together a straightforward guide explaining exactly what's changed and what it means for you in practice.

📖 Read the full article. Link in the comments.