Frequently Asked Questions about Umbrella Companies
We have put together all of the commonly asked questions from contractors enquiring either other the phone or via email, including some of the words and phrases that you may experience while researching contracting in general.
How does the JSA Umbrella Company Service benefit me?
As a temporary worker, you can miss out on some of the advantages available to permanent workers. These include the benefits of an employment contract and the ability to move seamlessly between assignments. You can also be faced with the burden of extensive administration.
These worries vanish when you become an employee of JSA's Umbrella Company, because we take care of all your administration, whilst making sure you receive the benefits you deserve.
How much will I save?
Your actual pay can fluctuate based on your circumstance, but our online calculator can give you a rough idea of how much you will receive. Alternatively please call us Freephone on 0800 25 26 40 to get a personalised salary illustration.
Are there lots of forms to fill out when I first sign up to JSA?
At JSA we try to take as much of the paper away as we can. When your first join up, all you have to do is fill in a simple and straightforward application form.
Aside from the registration form what else do you need from me to process my registration?
As an employer we have a duty to check that all our people have a right to work in the United Kingdom before we can issue them with a contract of employment. When you call us, have your passport to hand as in most cases we just need need the long number from the bottom of the photograph page in your passport. In addition to this we also require your P45 or P46.
How long does it take to process a registration?
Once we have received your completed registration form, your account will be open and ready to use within 24 hours from receipt of the application form and ID. In most cases, you will be registered by the end of the day we receive the details.
What happens when I register?
When you register, JSA will load your details on to our payroll database. We then contact your agency to arrange your contract and assignment schedule for you. Once we receive these, you will then be fully set up and ready for payroll. You will then be issued with a JSA contract formalising your status as a JSA employee.
What happens after I am registered?
Once you have registered with JSA, you will need to start completing and submitting your timesheets and expense claims to JSA. Once these are received, we will then invoice your agency, requesting payment for your hours. When the funds from your agency credit into our bank account, we will then payroll you, and release your pay, including allowable expenses, to your bank account.
How often should I submit a Timesheet and Expense claim?
It is often dependent on your agency as to how often you submit your timesheets and expense claims. This depends on their preferred payment schedule, which is usually done either weekly or monthly. You will submit an expense claim form along with each timesheet for the same period.
How do I submit my Timesheet and Expenses?
JSA have an online portal, submitting timesheets and expenses couldn't be easier.
What expenses can I claim?
Any costs you incur as part of your employment can be claimed as expenses, providing that they were genuinely incurred as a result of your employment. HMRC may check on this, so it is imperative you only claim for items that you are entitled to. We'll give you detailed guidance on expenses when you join us.
Is there a limit to the number of expenses I can claim?
Providing that your gross pay doesn't fall below the National Minimum Wage, there is no limit to the amount of expenses you can claim.
How will I get paid?
You will be paid directly in to your bank account by BACS (three working day transfer).
When will I get paid?
Once JSA receives your timesheet, we then raise an invoice to your agency. They then pay us for the hours you have worked. On the same day that we receive your payment, we then make payment to you. In most cases, if you are paid by BACS, then your payment will credit your bank account within three working days of JSA receiving the funds from your agency.
Can I be paid by CHAPs instead?
CHAPs, or same day transfer, means that your pay credits your bank account on the same day that JSA sends it to you, unlike BACS, where there is a three day delay. Unfortunately the use of CHAPs creates a cost to JSA. As such, although we are able to offer payments by CHAPs, we have to charge for this.
Will I get holiday pay whilst working through JSA?
Yes you do, JSA calculates your holiday pay and reports this to you each time you are paid.
Can I claim Statutory Payments like Statutory Sick Pay or Maternity Pay whilst working through JSA?
Yes, as JSA acts as your employer, we will pay you any statutory payments that you are due. If you qualify for these, you just need to contact one of our customer service advisors as soon as you know that you need to claim these. Our advisor will be able to talk you through the process.
Do I still need to do a self assessment tax return?
If you worked as self employed previously, then you may have been required to do a Self Assessment Tax Return for HMRC. Generally speaking, by working as an employee of JSA’s Umbrella Company, this should no longer be necessary, because JSA pays over all your Tax to HMRC on your behalf. If you have any other sources of income or other exceptional circumstances, then you may still need to complete a return. You should speak to either JSA or HMRC to confirm this.
If I do need to do a self assessment tax return can JSA do this for me?
Yes. JSA offers a Self Assessment Tax Return Service and will be happy to discuss your needs with you.
How much do you charge?
JSA’s margin depends on the service that you opt for, and are highly competitive. If you would like further information please contact our new enquires team.
Do JSA make a margin when I am not working?
No, at JSA we only take a margin for the weeks you work.