Ascen is the back-office infrastructure layer staffing agencies use to place workers without building their own compliance and payroll operation. As an employer of record, Ascen handles I-9 verification, background checks, payroll, benefits, workers' compensation, and tax compliance across US states, Canada, and select international markets.

The practical value: place your first contingent worker in a new state without registering a business entity there, worrying about workers' comp codes, or hiring a compliance specialist. The Agent of Record service extends the model to independent contractors - 1099 compliance and IC classification risk.

In August 2025, Upwork acquired Ascen, though the platform continues to serve staffing agencies directly. Their white-label approach means your clients see your brand, not Ascen's. For agencies scaling into new geographies without the infrastructure budget, Ascen removes the compliance ceiling.