List of CIS Umbrella Companies in the UK

If you're a self-employed contractor or subcontractor working under the Construction Industry Scheme (CIS), finding a reliable CIS umbrella company is crucial. This page provides a carefully curated list of popular and reputable CIS umbrella companies operating in the UK, along with essential details to help you choose the right one.

Our Trusted CIS Umbrella Company Providers

Honest Payroll

  • SafeRec Certified for Ultimate Compliance

  • Tailored Payroll for IT, CIS & Global Contractors

  • Same-Day Payments & Clear Payslips

  • Dedicated, Human Support

  • Full IR35 & Self-Employment Guidance

  • Seamless Agency Integration

  • Trusted by Contractors Worldwide

  • Pay as you go

  • Fees: £15 per week

  • Request a Quote

  • Phone: 01524 231199

  • Email Honest Payroll

DASA CIS Limited

  • Top-rated CIS Umbrella Company

  • Two-time Contracting Award Winner

  • FCSA Accredited Company

  • Professional Passport Approved

  • HMRC-approved CIS company

  • CIS & HMRC Deductions Paid at Source

  • Guaranteed Payment Dates

  • Transparent Calculations & Payslips

  • Comprehensive Insurance Cover

  • Request a Quote

  • Phone: 0207 118 0555

  • Email DASA CIS

Top 10 CIS Umbrella Companies UK

  1. DASA CIS Limited
  2. Honest Payroll
  3. Pay Guardians
  4. Addition Contractors Limited
  5. Workwell Contractor Solutions
  6. Bright Sky Contracting
  7. Sapphire Contracting
  8. Umbrella.co.uk
  9. Nasa Group
  10. Churchill Knight Umbrella

What is Construction Industry Scheme (CIS)?

The Construction Industry Scheme (CIS) is a tax scheme set up by HMRC to regulate how payments are made from contractors to subcontractors in the UK construction industry. Under CIS, contractors must deduct a percentage from the payments they make to subcontractors and send this directly to HMRC. These deductions act as advance payments towards the subcontractor’s tax and National Insurance. The scheme helps ensure that tax is collected correctly, prevents tax evasion, and keeps the construction sector compliant with UK tax laws.

What is CIS Umbrella?

A Construction Industry Scheme (CIS) umbrella is a type of payroll service provider that acts as an intermediary between self-employed subcontractors and the end clients or agencies they work with - specifically within the Construction Industry Scheme (CIS), which is overseen by HMRC in the UK. Under the CIS, contractors are required to deduct tax at source from payments made to subcontractors and pass it on to HMRC.

CIS vs PAYE

When working in the UK construction industry, it’s important to understand the difference between the Construction Industry Scheme (CIS) and Pay As You Earn (PAYE). Under CIS, subcontractors are classed as self-employed. Contractors deduct tax at source (usually 20% or 30%) and pass it to HMRC, but the subcontractor still manages their own business expenses and submits a Self Assessment tax return. This can often result in a CIS tax rebate, as allowable costs reduce overall tax liability.

In contrast, PAYE is the standard system for employees, where tax and National Insurance are automatically deducted by the employer. PAYE workers typically receive employment benefits such as holiday pay and sick pay, but have less flexibility in claiming expenses. For many construction subcontractors, CIS can mean a higher take-home pay compared to PAYE, provided they keep accurate records and claim their entitlements correctly.

Pros and Cons of using a CIS Umbrella

Advantages of using a CIS Umbrella

  1. Simplified Tax Compliance
  2. Fast and Reliable Payments
  3. No Need for a Limited Company
  4. Insurance Often Included
  5. Professional Documentation
  6. Flexible Working

Disadvantages of using a CIS Umbrella

  1. Service Fees Apply
  2. Less Financial Control
  3. Risk of Hidden Charges
  4. You’re Still Responsible for Self Assessment
  5. No Direct Business Branding

How to compare and choose the right CIS Umbrella Company?

Selecting the right Construction Industry Scheme (CIS) umbrella company is a crucial decision for any self-employed contractor or subcontractor working in the UK construction sector. Here are the key factors to consider when choosing a CIS umbrella company:

  1. HMRC Compliance
  2. Transparent Fees
  3. Same-Day or Fast Payments
  4. Insurance Cover
  5. Accreditation and Reviews
  6. Customer Support
  7. Clear Onboarding Process

Get Expert Help with CIS Umbrella Options

Choosing the right CIS umbrella provider can make a real difference to your working life — from getting paid on time to staying compliant with HMRC regulations.