How contracting with Sapphire works

Whether you’re joining Sapphire as a first-time contractor or switching from another provider, we make getting set up straightforward and keep the admin to a minimum.

Get started

Getting started with Sapphire

Tell us about your contract

Share a few details about your assignment, how you’re currently working and what you need from us.

Choose the right contracting route

Umbrella, CIS, PEO, limited company or global contracting — we’ll help you understand your options and choose the setup that fits your work.

We handle the setup

We’ll complete the relevant checks, paperwork and registration, working directly with your recruitment agency where needed.

You're ready to work and get paid

Once you’re set up, we take care of the ongoing payroll, tax or accounting requirements that come with your chosen route.

Get support whenever you need it

Questions about your pay, tax or account? Reach our team by phone, email or WhatsApp and get help from people who understand contracting.

Different contracts need different setups

Umbrella PAYE

Want PAYE employment without managing the payroll yourself? We employ you, process your pay and take care of tax and National Insurance.

Get started with Umbrella

CIS

Working self-employed in construction? We manage your CIS verification, deductions and payments, with same-day payment available.

Talk to our team

PEO

Get the clarity of a fixed PAYE rate alongside the employment rights and benefits that come with being employed by Sapphire.

Talk to our team

Limited company

Starting or already running a limited company? We can help get your company set up and support you with accounting, tax and the ongoing responsibilities of running it.

Get started as a Limited Company

Global contracting

Taking a contract overseas? Get local support with tax, registration, compliance and international payments across 102+ countries.

Talk to our team

Supporting you, however you need

Fast, accurate payments

Clear payroll processes and payment updates help you know what you’re being paid and when.

Real people when you need them

Get support by phone, email or WhatsApp from a team that understands contractors.

Compliance you can trust

Eight consecutive years of FCSA accreditation, alongside SafeRec real-time payroll auditing.

Specialist tax and accounting expertise

Get support with everything from contractor accounting and Self Assessment to pensions and tax planning.

Technology that makes admin easier

Access digital tools designed to make managing your pay, accounts and tax obligations simpler.

Switching to Sapphire is straightforward

Already using another umbrella, payroll or accountancy provider? We’ll help make the move as simple as possible.

Switch to Sapphire

Sharing success

Sapphire is employee-owned, meaning when the business does well, the people who make it possible share in it – including our contractors.

Every year, we distribute a profit-share bonus to contractors who have been with us for more than a year. This year, we surpassed over £1m paid directly to longstanding umbrella contractors who helped build what we have.

Find out more

£1m+

paid directly to contractors since 2021