How do I onboard contractors without entering a Client?

Last updated: August 21, 2026

Summary: Onboarding a contractor always requires a client, because every contractor is onboarded through an assignment, and every assignment must be tied to a client. If you don't have an external end client, the answer isn't to skip the client — it's to create one for your own company and onboard under that.

Why a client is always required

A contractor doesn't exist on the platform in isolation — they're engaged through an assignment, and an assignment ties together a client, a job, a pay rate, and a start date. That client is what drives billing, invoicing, and the work relationship. There is no path that onboards a worker without an assignment, and no assignment without a client. (For the distinction between the person and their engagement, see What is the difference between a Contractor and an Assignment?.)

So the order is always: create a client → create an assignment → invite and onboard the contractor.

What to do when there's no external end client

If you're employing the worker for your own company (rather than placing them at an outside client), you still create a client — you just make your own company the client:

  1. Create a client for your own company. Use an email address different from your Partner login — each login on the platform needs its own unique email. See Creating clients, jobs, and assignments — what's required and what can delay going live.

  2. Create the assignment under that client — see How do I create an assignment?.

  3. Invite and onboard the contractor as usual — see How to invite and onboard a new contractor.

If you frequently work this way, ask your account team whether a different account setup fits better. Questions? Email support@ascen.com.