Temporary jobs
Sometimes employers don't need staff on a permanent basis; they need people to work during certain seasons or over a particularly busy period. This is known as temporary work and can suit different people at different times. Here's what you need to know.
"You'll have the same rights as permanent staff to holiday pay, sick pay, and Minimum Wage."
What kinds of temporary work are there?
There are loads of different kinds, ranging from summer-season holiday work, to one-off catering functions, to long-term office contracts of two years or more.
How long can temporary work last for?
It can last from half a day upwards, but you will know that it is for a limited time – also know as 'fixed term contract' – and usually the employer will state the length from the outset. This should be written into a contract.
What are the benefits of temporary work?
Temporary work can suit a range of people. Students can make good use of temporary work, particularly during their holidays. People who have a range of skills suit temporary work as they can do different jobs depending on the time of year and what work is available at that time. It can also offer variety by changing the environment and people you work with on a more regular basis.
What are the down sides?
There is less security as it's only for a fixed period. If you need a continuous source of income, you will have to keep looking for new contracts as each one comes to an end.
Is temporary work the same as agency work?
Not necessarily. If you're employed through an employment agency, you may well have a temporary contract. But many temporary contracts come directly from the employer, in which case you'll have different rights to agency staff.
What rights do I have?
You have exactly the same rights as permanent staff to holiday pay, sick pay, National Minimum Wage and protection from discrimination. Also, depending on the length and conditions of your contract, you may be entitled to Maternity Pay.
Do I need to pay the same tax as permanent staff?
Yes. Your employer must deduct National Insurance and Income Tax from your payslip in the same way that they would with permanent staff, even if you are paid cash in hand. It is important that they do, because otherwise you could lose your employment rights and the right to some benefits. However, you are entitled to £6475 tax-free, so if you earn less than this in a year you will be entitled to a tax rebate.
What if I'm a student?
You still pay tax on your income unless all of the following apply:
- You're a full-time student in the UK, only working during the holidays
- You're returning to full-time education after the holiday
- Your total income for the year is below the Personal Allowance
You will need a P38S Student Employees form to prevent tax being deducted from your earnings, although National Insurance will still be deducted if you earn more than £110 a week.
Updated:15/04/2010Jargon Buster
- Tax rebate:
- A refund of a portion of the income tax you have paid if too much has been deducted. This happens if your actual earnings are less than was estimated at the start of the tax year.
- Personal allowance:
- The amount of your income that you are entitled to tax-free. This is currently£6475.
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