New PAYE rules will benefit umbrella companies
From 6th April 2010, new PAYE regulations mean that HMRC will accept the use of electronic P60s (also known as eP60s). This is great news for large employers, such as umbrella companies.
Temporary and permanent recruitment on the rise
The REC’s latest report on jobs shows that in March growth in temporary placements reached the strongest level for nearly 3 years. This proves the “vital flexibility” that temporary and contract workers, including umbrella company contractors, provide for UK businesses.
Umbrella companies welcome action on illegal workers
Gordon Brown is going to strengthen the links between the Points Based System and training UK workers in a bid to fill the UK’s skills gap.
HMRC cuts could affect service they provide to umbrella companies
HMRC is in line for a tough year as they face more cost cuts whilst continuing to find and chase tax evaders. This could have a knock on effect on those who work through umbrella companies.
Where are all the female IT contractors?
Only 35% of IT workers in Europe are female according to the latest European survey by the IT Job Board. This could be about to change however as more women are now entering the sector.
Wanting the quiet life…
How quickly the months roll around, the first quarter seemed to just disappear with minimal upset for most umbrella companies (there were a couple of exceptions).
National Insurance cuts becomes an election issue
There have been a lot of complaints recently about the proposed hike in NICs and the Tories seem to have taken heed.
Tax penalty danger to freelancers and contractors
Offshore tax evaders could face penalties of up to 200% after a consultation which was launched in the 2009 Pre-Budget Report.
Mixed news on umbrella company workers’ prospects
Last week’s employment figures from the ONS showed that the number of people in work in the quarter ending January 2010 was 28.86 million. 54,000 people in full time work lost their jobs during that period bringing the employment rate down to its lowest since November 1996.
Umbrella company contractors should not dismiss the financial sector
According to reports from the REC, there has been a recent surge in the number of job vacancies for high end workers in the financial sector.
Recruiters and the umbrella company preferred supplier list
There has been a lot of talk in the recruitment media recently about the use of umbrella companies and their role in the freelance chain. Some say that recruiters couldn't survive without them while others are a little less convinced.
A change of government will not help umbrella companies
According to the findings of a new survey by XLN Telecom, SMEs including umbrella companies and recruitment agencies, do not think that Tory victory at the next general election will result in a dramatic upsurge in business.
