Start contracting with more clarity and confidence.
Explore beginner-friendly guides covering how IT contracting works, umbrella companies, limited companies, PAYE, Corporation Tax, CV preparation and the key decisions first-time contractors often face.
Browse first-time contractor articles
Use these guides to understand the basics before choosing a contractor route, speaking with recruiters, registering with an umbrella company or setting up a limited company.
What is an umbrella company?
A simple guide explaining what an umbrella company is, how it works, and why first-time contractors are often introduced to this route.
How to start IT contracting in the UK?
An in-depth beginner guide explaining how IT contracting works in the UK, what to consider before starting, and what legal and financial support may be useful.
Top tips to help you write an impactful CV
Learn how to create a stronger contractor CV that presents your skills, experience and contract suitability clearly to recruiters and clients.
How to set up a limited company
A practical guide explaining the steps involved in setting up a limited company and what to think about before contracting through your own company.
Umbrella company vs limited company
Compare the umbrella company and limited company routes so you can better understand which structure may suit your first contracting role.
How to register with an umbrella company in the UK?
A step-by-step guide explaining how to register with an umbrella company, what details you may need, and what to check before you start.
What is PAYE?
Understand how PAYE works in the UK and how Income Tax and National Insurance are collected directly from employment income.
How is Corporation Tax calculated in the UK?
Learn the basics of Corporation Tax, how it is calculated, and how limited company profits can affect the tax your company may owe.
How to use these first-time contractor guides
Start with the basics, then work towards the setup that matches your contract. The goal is to understand your route before signing paperwork, agreeing a rate or choosing a payment structure.
Need tools after reading the guides?
Use the Contractor Toolkit to access calculators, templates, generators and practical resources that support common contractor admin tasks.