PayStream

PayStream: umbrella company and accountancy services for contractors in the UK

PayStream Accounting Services Ltd is a firm based in Altrincham (Cheshire) that offers umbrella company services, accountancy, payroll and candidate screening. The company presents itself as a leading provider for contractors, entrepreneurs, business owners and recruitment agencies, and claims to have more than twenty years of experience in the sector.

History and evolution

The website explains that the firm began over thirty years ago as an accountancy practice for small and medium-sized businesses. In 2002, detecting an increase in contractor clients, it expanded its offering to cover the needs of the UK's flexible workforce. Since then, according to its own account, it has grown its client base and reputation, and has become a preferred provider for hundreds of agencies seeking a reliable and compliant umbrella company.

Main services

• Umbrella company: its service is marketed under the My Max brand and combines the freedom of self-employment with the benefits of continuous employment. It includes access to a secure online portal and a mobile app available 24/7, digital payslips and retail rewards.
• Accountancy and tax: offers limited company accounting and personal tax advice, with modular services for contractors, business owners and entrepreneurs. The offering includes proactive tax advice and support with payroll processing.
• Candidate screening: screening service with cloud-based software, identity verification and background checks, aimed at speeding up onboarding and reducing risks for agencies.
• International payroll: management of payments to candidates abroad without the need to establish a legal entity in the destination country.
• Complementary services: contractor insurance, IR35 compliance, outsourced screening services and an umbrella net income calculator.

Awards and ratings

The company describes itself as "the UK's best Umbrella and Accountancy service provider" and claims to have been voted number one in the UK. According to its website content, more than 90% of its clients would recommend it and thousands of contractors rate it as excellent on Trustpilot and Google. These claims come from the company's own presentation and have not been independently verified.

Commitment to ESG and working conditions

PayStream states that it integrates environmental, social and governance (ESG) criteria into its daily activity, with practices such as recycling and promoting a paperless environment. It also notes that all its employees, including those of its umbrella company, have employment contracts developed with legal advisors that include all statutory rights. The firm supports charitable events and donates to local and national organisations.

Structure and corporate details

The company operates under the legal name PayStream Accounting Services Ltd, with registered office at Mansion House, Manchester Road, Altrincham, Cheshire, WA14 4RW. Its company registration number is 07598955 and its VAT number is 112587916. The website does not detail additional branches.

Location and contact

Mansion House, Manchester Road, Altrincham, Cheshire, WA14 4RW · Email: info@paystream.co.uk