Switching to PAYE
If you are currently paid through an umbrella company, you can request to switch to Zen PAYE instead. Before you do, it is worth understanding whether a switch is actually the right move for you.
Is switching right for you?
For most educators, staying on umbrella is the better option. Here is why:
Umbrella works well if you:
- Work across multiple supply agencies - one umbrella company handles everything, keeping your tax simple
- Do short-term or varied work - it is designed for flexible, multi-employer arrangements
- Want less admin - your umbrella company handles tax, National Insurance, invoicing, and payments for you
PAYE may suit you better if you:
- You are in a long-term, full-time role with Zen Educate as your only employer
- Want full visibility of your deductions on your payslip
If you are unsure, get in touch with our support team before requesting a switch - they can help you work out what makes sense for your situation.
What is the difference?
Umbrella
Your daily rate is slightly uplifted to account for your umbrella company's fee and employer deductions. These are handled within your payslip.
Zen PAYE
These deductions are handled outside of your payslip, so you do not receive the uplift. Your rate will appear slightly lower as a result.
The important thing to know is that your take-home pay remains the same on both methods. The difference is in how the numbers are presented on your payslip, not in what you actually receive.
How to switch
If you would like to switch to PAYE, get in touch with the Zen Educate support team and they will guide you through the process. Changes take effect on a Friday payroll run.
Not sure which arrangement you are currently on?
Check your Key Information Document in the app - go to More → Information → Key info document. The document will confirm your current pay arrangement and provider details.