If you are a contractor that works through multiple umbrella companies, you may be faced with different looking payslips.

This can make it difficult to understand what is being deducted and why.

Payslips are allowed to be designed differently, however there are certain points that must be included, by law, on every payslip.

Click on the orange dots on the image to reveal the must-haves for every payslip you are issued.

If advanced holiday has been paid to you up front, this must be clearly shown on your payslip. It should be itemised so you can see how much holiday pay has been included in that period, helping you avoid confusion later in the year when your take-home might be lower during actual time off.

Make sure to check that all deductions — including tax, National Insurance, pension contributions, and any other withholdings — are clearly listed and easy to understand.

If something doesn’t look right or you’re unsure about a line on your payslip, don’t hesitate to ask your umbrella company for clarification. Transparency is not just good practice, it’s your right.

Would you like a visual aid or example payslip to go with this?