Choosing the right type of worker
Employee, casual, self-employed, agency or platform, and why it matters.
When you add someone, you choose how they work for you. It matters because the rules changed on 1 October 2026 to cover more types of worker.
| Type | Who this is | Needs checking |
|---|---|---|
| Employee | On your payroll, with a contract that has set or guaranteed hours. | Always has |
| Casual or zero-hours (payroll) | On your payroll, but without set hours. | Always has |
| Self-employed subcontractor | An individual who sends you invoices. | From 1 October 2026 |
| Agency-supplied | Supplied and paid by an agency. | From 1 October 2026 |
| App or platform | Found or booked through an app or website. | From 1 October 2026 |
Let RotaProof work it out
In RotaProof, click Which type of worker? in the menu and answer two questions:
- How is this person paid for the work they do for you?
- If they're on your payroll: do they have set or guaranteed hours?
RotaProof shows the type, explains what it means, and gives you a button to add a worker of that type.
None of these fit? For example, if someone works through their own limited company, get advice before you add them. RotaProof records the type you choose; it can't decide it for you.
This guide explains how to use RotaProof. It isn't legal advice. For the rules themselves, the Home Office's employer's guide to right to work checks is the final word.