For healthcare professionals working as locums or contractors, one of the most important decisions you’ll make is how to structure your earnings. Should you work through an Umbrella Company or set up your own Personal Private Company?
Each approach offers distinct advantages depending on your career goals, income level, and how involved you wish to be in managing your finances.
At Beacon Locum Contracting (BLC), we specialise in providing tailored contracting solutions for doctors, nurses, and allied health professionals across Ireland. Our mission is to make your working life simpler — so you can focus on patient care while we handle your financial administration.
An Umbrella Company acts as an intermediary between you and the organisation you work for. Instead of setting up your own limited company, you become an employee (or director) of the umbrella structure. The umbrella company invoices your client or agency, deducts the appropriate taxes, and pays your net income directly to you.
It’s the simplest and most convenient way to work as a locum while remaining fully compliant with employment and tax regulations.
At BLC, we offer three Umbrella Company plans, each designed to meet different professional needs and earning levels.
This is the most straightforward route for healthcare professionals who prefer minimal involvement in administration. You are employed by BLC’s umbrella structure, and we take care of everything — from invoicing and payroll to tax filings.
Key Benefits:
Ideal for: Newly qualified doctors, nurses, and healthcare professionals who want a straightforward, reliable payment solution.
For higher earners or those seeking more control over their income and pension arrangements, the Umbrella Director plan offers enhanced flexibility. You benefit from a wider range of remuneration structures, tax-saving opportunities, and pension planning options, while still avoiding the administrative burden of running a company.
Key Benefits:
Ideal for: Experienced locums and consultants seeking a balance between autonomy and administrative ease.
The Umbrella for One plan is an exclusive BLC service combining the tax benefits of self-employment with the simplicity of umbrella administration. You enjoy the rewards of running your own business, without the associated responsibilities or risk.
Key Benefits:
Ideal for: Independent practitioners seeking tax efficiency, flexibility, and the option to move easily into company ownership in the future.
If you’re ready for complete control over your finances, a Personal Private Company (Limited Company) may be the right choice. This structure enables you to act as the director and shareholder of your own company, giving you full autonomy over how you manage income, expenses, and long-term financial planning.
BLC’s experienced accountancy team will support you through every stage — from initial setup to ongoing compliance and tax strategy.
Key Benefits:
Ideal for: Experienced consultants, high-earning locums, or practitioners aiming to build long-term wealth and financial independence.
| Feature | Umbrella Company | Personal Private Company |
|---|---|---|
| Administration | Minimal – BLC handles all invoicing, payroll, and tax | Full responsibility for company management (supported by BLC) |
| Tax Efficiency | Moderate, depending on umbrella plan | Maximum flexibility and savings potential |
| Setup Time | Immediate | Typically a few days |
| Pension Options | Available under Director and Umbrella for One plans | Complete control and advanced pension planning |
| Ideal For | Locums seeking simplicity and convenience | Professionals seeking full control and long-term financial growth |
| Ongoing Costs | Fixed fee | Varies based on structure and chosen services |
At Beacon Locum Contracting, we understand that healthcare professionals face unique financial challenges. That’s why we offer a range of additional services to support your broader professional and personal goals, including:
Our aim is to provide complete financial confidence, so you can focus entirely on your patients.
At BLC, we pride ourselves on delivering clarity, compliance, and confidence to every healthcare professional we support.
Unsure which option is best for you?
Our expert advisors will take the time to understand your circumstances and recommend the most efficient, compliant, and flexible contracting structure for your career.
📧 Email: [email protected]
📞 Call: 01 908 1250
Let Beacon Locum Contracting help you find the perfect balance between financial control, professional freedom, and peace of mind..
