Our blogs

ISO 27701 privacy GDPR

The privacy standard you’ve never heard of (but should be asking your payroll provider about)

Since the UK GDPR and the new Data Protection Act came into effect in 2018, every business has claimed to be compliant. It’s expected. It’s promised. But can it actually be proven? That’s where ISO 27701 comes in. It is...

Payroll Simplified - CIS and PAYE

Understanding the Construction Industry Scheme (CIS) and PAYE

If you’re running a construction business in the UK, you’ve probably heard about CIS and PAYE. These two tax systems often work side by side, and understanding how they interact is crucial for staying compliant with HMRC. It is important...

Ascend Payroll and Jerry Green Case Study

From frustration to confidence – how Jerry Green Dog Rescue found their perfect payroll partner

When Sandra Marshall joined Jerry Green Dog Rescue as their Finance Manager nearly four years ago, payroll was already outsourced. But what started as a convenient solution had gradually become a significant source of stress. “The level of customer service...

The importance of UKAS certification

Not all ISO certifications are created equal – why UKAS accreditation matters

Last week, we shared some exciting news: Ascend Payroll has been certified to three international quality standards. ISO 9001 – the standard for quality management ISO 27001 – Information Security Management System ISO 27701 – Privacy Information Management System (PIMS)...

Ascend Education announcement

Announcing our new Ascend.Education division

From 1st April 2026, we’re launching Ascend.Education – our dedicated payroll and pension service for schools, academies and MATs. Why we’re doing this Education payrolls are notoriously complex. Pay scales, backdated pay awards, and staff juggling multiple roles with different...

Car allowance vs company car

Understanding the tax implications of a car allowance vs a company car

Choosing between a car allowance and a company car is one of the most significant decisions employees face when negotiating their benefits package. Both options have distinct financial implications, particularly when it comes to tax and National Insurance contributions. In...

Lucy Brewitt - Pension Specialist

Lucy Brewitt joins Ascend Payroll as Pensions Specialist

On the anniversary of our first birthday, we’re delighted to welcome Lucy Brewitt to the team as our Pensions Specialist. Lucy brings over 15 years of pensions experience to Ascend, with a deep understanding of the complexities and regulatory requirements...

hy education payroll is harder tan you think

Why education payroll is harder than you think

If you work in education payroll, you already know it’s complicated. If you’re considering switching providers or bringing payroll in-house, you might be underestimating just how complicated it gets. Education isn’t just another sector. It’s a unique combination of public-sector...

Managed Payroll Horror Stories

When outsourced payroll turns into a horror show

The warning signs you ignore at your peril Outsourcing your payroll should make your life easier. That’s the whole point. You hand over one of the most compliance-heavy, time-consuming parts of running a business to experts who eat, sleep and...

Why staying with a struggling payroll provider is risking your business

Why sticking with a struggling payroll provider is riskier than you think

It starts small. An email takes a day longer to get answered. Your regular contact has “moved on to new opportunities.” You get introduced to someone new – again. They seem capable enough, but you can tell they’re still getting...

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