What is self-employment?
Self-employment in the UK offers the freedom to operate independently, often resulting in flexible hours, remote work options, and income potential driven by your efforts. However, it also brings responsibilities such as tax obligations and maintaining detailed records of income and expenses. This guide outlines everything you need to know to register, manage taxes, and claim expenses as a self-employed individual in the UK.
Step-by-step guide to registering as self-employed
10 Steps to register as self-employed with HMRC
To register as self-employed and set up a self-assessment tax return with HMRC, follow these steps:
- Create a Government Gateway account on HMRC’s website
- Wait for your Government Gateway ID to arrive
- Log in to your account, select “add a tax,” then choose “self-assessment.”
- Select your business structure: individual, sole trader, trust, or partnership
- Enter the date you began self-employment
- Provide your personal details
- Include a brief description of your business activities
- Review and submit your registration
- Await your Unique Taxpayer Reference (UTR), which will arrive by post
- Activate your UTR using the activation code sent within 10 working days
For those who have previously submitted a tax return, use the CWF1 form with your existing UTR.
When to register
Register with HMRC as soon as possible, but no later than 5th October following the end of the tax year in which you started your business. For example, if you began self-employment in June 2023, the registration deadline would be 5th October 2024.
Managing self-assessment tax returns
Understanding self-assessment
Self-employed individuals need to report income through a self-assessment tax return each year. This offsets income against allowable expenses and allowances, meaning you pay tax only on your taxable profit, not your entire income.
Key tax deadlines
- 31st October: Paper tax return submission
- 31st January: Online return and tax payment deadline for the previous tax year
To avoid penalties, maintain accurate records, and submit on time. Late submissions can result in fines, which increase over time if not resolved.
Self-assessment for new self-employed individuals
Newly self-employed individuals must complete a tax return if they earn more than £1,000 annually. Additionally, anyone earning from rental properties, commissions, tips, savings, investments, or dividends must also complete a return.
Filing your tax return
To complete your tax return, you will need:
- UTR (Unique Taxpayer Reference)
- NI (National Insurance) number
- Income and expense records
- P60 (if applicable)
What happens if you miss the deadline?
Missing the self-assessment deadline incurs penalties:
- £100 fine if missed by one day
- Up to £1,000 after three months
- Additional fines after six and twelve months
Claiming self-employed expenses
Allowable expenses
Allowable expenses are costs incurred by your business that are tax-deductible. Claiming these expenses reduces your taxable profit. Common categories include:
- Office expenses: Stationery, printing supplies, postage, and short-term software licences
- Travel expenses: Fuel, repairs, business travel, and accommodation. Personal travel, such as commuting, cannot be claimed
- Business premises expenses: Rent, utilities, maintenance, and security for office spaces
- Financial and legal expenses: Accountancy and legal fees, bank charges, and interest on loans. Fines and loan repayments are not deductible
- Staff costs: Salaries, bonuses, pension contributions, and training
- Marketing costs: Website fees, advertising, and promotional expenses
- Other costs: Uniforms, protective clothing, raw materials, and memberships in professional bodies
How to claim expenses
Keep records of all expenses throughout the tax year. Self-employed individuals can use either:
- Traditional accounting: Recording expenses as they’re incurred.
- Cash basis accounting: Recording expenses when they are paid.
When completing your return, you may enter a single expense figure or a detailed breakdown. Providing accurate records is essential, as HMRC may investigate discrepancies.
Key dates in the tax year
- 6th April: Start of the tax year
- 31st July: Second payment on account for previous year’s tax due
- 31st October: Paper tax return deadline
- 31st January: Online tax return and payment deadline
Tips for efficient tax management
- File online: Filing online allows you to save progress and provides a simpler submission process.
- Track income and expenses: Organise invoices, receipts, and records digitally to streamline the tax process.
- Hire an accountant: Consider professional support to help with complex tax rules, optimise your tax position, and save time.
Ready to go self-employed?
Starting your self-employed journey is an exciting step, but it’s essential to stay on top of your financial responsibilities. Mint Formations can help streamline the registration process, ensuring you are set up as a sole trader or limited company with ease. Our accountancy services can also support your business by managing expenses, filing self-assessment returns, and ensuring compliance with HMRC. Get in touch with us today to start your self-employment journey with confidence!
