Payroll and PAYE, from your first hire onwards
Taking on your first employee, or paying yourself as a director, comes with real obligations: PAYE, RTI, and pension auto-enrolment. We handle all of it, so your team gets paid correctly and you stay on the right side of HMRC.
What's included
PAYE registration
We register you as an employer with HMRC and get your payroll scheme set up correctly from the start.
Monthly payroll runs
Salaries calculated, payslips issued, and your team paid the right amount on the right day.
RTI submissions
Real Time Information filed with HMRC on or before every payday, as the law requires.
Pension auto-enrolment
We set up and manage your workplace pension duties, including assessment and contributions.
Starters & leavers
New joiners, P45s, P60s, and leaver processing handled accurately and on time.
Director payroll & strategy
Optimal director salary set-up that works hand-in-hand with your dividend strategy.
Why founders choose Beacon & Ledger
From your very first hire, we make sure you're a compliant employer. PAYE, RTI, and pensions all in place.
Payroll integrates with your Xero bookkeeping, so wages, tax, and pensions flow straight into your accounts.
We handle auto-enrolment, the part most founders don't realise is a legal duty until it's late.
Director pay is set up to work with your dividend strategy for the most tax-efficient overall outcome.
Your team gets paid correctly and on time, every time. No awkward conversations, no missed RTI deadlines.
Book a free 30-minute call
About to make your first hire? Book a free call and we'll walk you through exactly what payroll involves.
Common questions
Do I need to run payroll if I'm the only director?
Often yes. Many directors pay themselves a small salary through PAYE alongside dividends because it's tax-efficient and protects your state pension entitlement. We set up director payroll as part of a wider salary-vs-dividends strategy tailored to you.
When do I have to register for PAYE?
You need to register as an employer with HMRC before your first payday, including for director-only payroll. We handle the registration for you so it's done correctly and in good time.
What is RTI and why does it matter?
Real Time Information (RTI) is HMRC's requirement to report payroll details on or before each payday. Missing RTI deadlines triggers automatic penalties. We file every submission on time as part of your payroll service.
What is pension auto-enrolment and does it apply to me?
If you employ staff who meet certain criteria, you're legally required to enrol them in a workplace pension and contribute. It's easy to overlook when you're growing fast. We assess your duties, set up the scheme, and manage ongoing contributions.
How much does payroll cost?
We tailor quotes to each business. Payroll is typically bundled into your overall monthly package. Book a free intro call and we'll give you a clear quote based on your team size.
Related services
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