What are our contracting solutions?

1. The Umbrella Company PAYE solution is perfect if you’re new to contracting, on a restricted visa, applying for a mortgage, on a short-term contract, or want full Social Welfare benefits. Fast setup, minimal admin–we handle everything from invoicing to payroll taxes and expense claims. It’s a pay-as-you-go, hassle-free service. 2. The Umbrella Company Director option is for you if you’re on a short-term contract, have no visa limitations (stamp 4+), and want higher take-home pay without running your own company. This solution is not suitable if you are applying for a mortgage. 3. Don’t mind a little more responsibility? The Personal Limited Company solution is ideal if you’re on a long-term contract, earning €400+/day, or if you're ready to grow your wealth and hire. More control, more benefits, with a bit more admin.

What is an Umbrella Company?

An Umbrella Company lets you contract without setting up your own limited company. You remain an independent contractor, but Fenero’s Umbrella Company acts as your employer for payroll and tax administration. We handle your payroll, taxes, and insurance — giving you the flexibility of contracting without the admin burden.

Who is Umbrella PAYE best suited for?

This solution is perfect for those new to contracting, on short-term contracts, with visa restrictions, or applying for a mortgage.It’s the simplest way to start contracting confidently

What’s the difference between Umbrella PAYE and Umbrella Director?

Umbrella PAYE is best if you’re new to contracting, on a short-term contract, applying for a mortgage or have visa restrictions. Umbrella Director is designed for contractors on a Stamp 4 or unrestricted visa, who want higher take-home pay and a little more control. Both options are pay-as-you-go, with no setup or closure costs. If you’re unsure which is right for you, our team can help you choose the best fit for your contract and circumstances.

What is a Personal Limited Company (PLC)?

A PLC is a limited company set up primarily for contracting, where the individual (often the sole director and shareholder) provides their own services to clients through the company. It puts you in control of how you manage your finances and taxes.

You can easily get started by requesting a call with one of our experts. Our Solutions Advisors will guide you through the best solution for your needs. Once you’ve chosen your solution, we handle all the paperwork, registration, and setup. You’ll get access to your myFenero to manage invoices, payments, expenses, and taxes–all online, 24/7. With everything in place, you can begin your contract confidently, while we take care of payroll and tax submissions, expense claims, and ongoing financial advice and support.

New to Contracting in Ireland?

myFenero Login

New to contracting?

We get it. Stepping into the world of contracting can feel overwhelming and complicated. But it doesn’t have to be.

We’ll guide you through every step, from getting set up to managing tax and compliance, with clear advice, practical support, and real people you can rely on.

New to contracting?

We’ll guide you through every step, from getting set up to managing tax and compliance, with clear advice, practical support, and real people you can rely on.

Your first steps into contracting

Getting started

Stepping into the world of contracting begins with a mindset shift from employee to contractor. This can feel overwhelming if you don’t know where to start. However, finding the right service provider who can take care of all the admin and compliance while you focus on your contract is critical for your success.

More flexibility, more control

There are many benefits to contracting, which is why more professionals are choosing this way of working. Greater flexibility, higher earning potential, improved tax efficiency, and the freedom to shape your career are just some of the key advantages.

Contract with confidence

Many contractors worry about taxes, compliance and financial planning. That’s where we come in. We simplify the process so you can focus on your work with confidence and peace of mind.

Your earnings after tax, simplified!

Curious how your take-home pay compares as a contractor versus a permanent employee? Our calculator gives you a quick side-by-side view, so you can see the difference in your net income.

It’s a great starting point, and if you’d like a more detailed, personalised breakdown, our Solutions Advisors are here to help.

Compare our contracting solutions

Not sure which path to take?
Compare our solutions side-by-side to find the setup that matches your goals, income, and preferred level of control.

Umbrella PAYE

What It Means

You use our Fenero owned ready-to-go Umbrella Company.
You stay the contractor.
We handle invoices, payments, and expense claims.
Join instantly, leave anytime.
Simple & flexible.
Pay-as-you-go.

Best For You If

You're new to contracting.
You're on a short-term contract.
You have visa restrictions.
You're applying for a mortgage.

Pros & Benefits

Immediate setup.
All payroll taxes handled.
Claim business expenses.
Class A PRSI and Illness Benefit.
Full insurance cover.
Wellbeing programme.
No setup/close costs.
Fast payments.
24/7 Contractor Platform.

Cons & Restrictions

Lower take-home (11.25% employers PRSI is deducted from your invoice).
Less tax planning opportunities & control than PSC.

€110 per month

(€53 p/m after relief)

€35 per week

(€17 p/m after relief)

Umbrella Director

What It Means

You use our Fenero owned ready-to-go Umbrella Company.
You stay the contractor.
Higher take home pay.
Join instantly, leave anytime.
Simple & flexible.
Pay-as-you-go.

Best For You If

You're new to contracting.
You're on a short-term contract.
Not ready to run your own company.

Pros & Benefits

Immediate setup.
All payroll taxes handled.
Claim business expenses.
Class S PRSI and no Illness Benefit.
Full insurance cover.
Wellbeing programme.
No setup/close costs.
Fast payments.
24/7 Contractor Platform.

Cons & Restrictions

Not available on a restricted visa (you need at least Stamp 4)
Not ideal if you're applying for a mortgage.
Less tax planning opportunities & control than PSC.

€145 per month

(€70 p/m after tax relief)

€45 per week

(€22 p/m after tax relief)

Personal Limited Company

What It Means

You run your own company.
Fenero supports you with tax accounting, and setup.
You provide the details through our contractor portal.
We prepare and file your returns and accounts

Best For You If

You earn €400+/day.
You have a long-term contract.
You want to employ someone.
You want decision making and control.
Want to build wealth.

Pros & Benefits

Maximise your take-home pay.
Have more control.
Set your own salary.
Build savings in your company.
Invest or buy assets, e.g.: a car.
Enjoy more tax planning & wealth management opportunities.
Claim more expenses.

Cons & Restrictions

For long-term contractors earning over €400/day.
Not ideal if you're on a short contract.
Setup takes longer.
More fees and admin than Umbrella.
More control and us to guide you.

€179 per month

€2,148 paid over 12 months

Incorporation fee
Personal tax fees
Strike off fees

Why starting contractors choose Fenero

Contracting tax and accounting specialists

Tax and financial planning support

Employee Wellbeing Assistance programme

Highest professional indemnity coverage

20,000+ contractors helped over 16+ years

Dedicated Account Manager

24/7 access to our bespoke online platforms

Premium award-winning service

Our money-back service level guarantee

To give you peace of mind, we guarantee same-day payment processing.
If we don’t process your funds on the same business day we receive them, we’ll waive your Fenero fee for that period.

( While we guarantee same-day processing by Fenero, the timing of funds arriving in a contractor’s bank account is subject to external banking systems and may vary. )

New to Contracting FAQs

If you work independently for a company or client on a temporary basis, you are not an employee but a self-employed professional. As a contractor, you have more flexibility and higher earning potential. But you are also responsible for registering with Revenue, your own tax returns, VAT (if applicable), and claiming business expenses. Fenero can help you stay compliant and maximise your income.

Knowledge Hub

From advice on claiming tax relief to a breakdown of what the Budget means for you, we have some great resources to help you navigate the often-complex contracting landscape.

Contracting

Contractor vs Employee in Ireland: How Is Employment Status Decided?

Calling someone a contractor doesn't make them a contractor. In Ireland, whether someone is an employee or genuinely self-employed depends on the reality of the working relationship, not simply what their contract says.

October 23, 2026

Contracting

Personal Limited Company Ireland: Is It Right for Contractors?

A Personal Limited Company can give an experienced contractor more control over how they work, how company income is managed, and how their contracting career develops.

October 9, 2026

Contracting

How Much Can an Umbrella Contractor Take Home in Ireland in 2026?

A €500 day rate sounds straightforward until you ask what actually reaches your bank account. If you work 20 billable days at €500 per day, you'll invoice €10,000 for the month. But €10,000 isn't your salary, and it isn't your final take-home pay. Your actual income depends on your umbrella structure, tax credits, PRSI treatment, pension contributions, allowable expenses, and personal circumstances. There isn't one universal take-home percentage that applies to every contractor—but worked illustrations offer a great starting point.

October 9, 2026

Have any questions?

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New to Contracting in Ireland?

New to contracting?