Sole trader Registration
We handle your entire UK sole trader registration—from paperwork to HMRC submission. All you need is your National Insurance number.
Buy now for £29 + VAT
What’s included?
Setting up as a sole trader in the UK is a great way to start your business and build your brand.
£29 +VAT
Buy now
£50 UK Companies House fee will be added.
Formation
- Sole trader name check
- Fast sole trader registration
- Self-assessment registration
- Ongoing sole trader support
Free
- Consultation with an accountant
- Business start-up guide
- Marketing guide
- Lifetime support
- Exclusive offers and deals
Strongly recommend
I had no clue how to register as a sole trader and was honestly nervous about getting it wrong. I reached out to Mint, who explained everything clearly and walked me through each step. Highly recommend!
Jordan M.
Easy-to-use website
I kept delaying registering as a sole trader because it seemed complicated. But Mint Formations made the whole thing effortless. It only took a few minutes, and their team was so helpful. Wish I had done it sooner!
Nadia Patel
Polite and professional
A great experience from start to finish. Peter assisted me and answered all my questions without any jargon. As someone launching a freelance design business, this support was just what I needed.
Ethan Price
What is a sole trader?
A sole trader is a self-employed person who runs a business with no employees. Legally, there’s no distinction between you and your business. There are many benefits to becoming a sole trader, including:
Full Control As a sole trader, you have complete autonomy over your business decisions, working hours, and operations without managing employees.
Financial Privacy Unlike limited companies, sole traders aren't required to publish financial information publicly, keeping your business finances private.
Simple Tax Process Self-assessment tax returns are straightforward to complete, especially with professional accounting help if needed.
Register as a sole trader now
When you need to register as a sole trader?
Registration applies to all business types—from online selling to freelance consulting. Anyone eligible for a National Insurance number can register as a sole trader in the UK.
- Your business earned over £1,000 in the last tax year
- You need to prove self-employed status for tax purposes
- You want to make voluntary Class 2 National Insurance payments
Buy now for £29 + VAT
Frequently Asked Questions
What is sole trader registration and why is it mandatory?
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Sole trader registration is the legal requirement to register your self-employed business with HMRC. You must register within 3 months if you earn over £1,000 annually from self-employment. As a sole trader, you're personally responsible for all business debts - it's the simplest business structure in the UK, perfect for freelancers and small business owners.
What's included in our sole trader registration service?
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Complete HMRC registration, UTR number application, National Insurance setup, business name guidance, self-assessment registration, tax obligations overview, VAT threshold advice, insurance recommendations, and ongoing compliance support. Everything is handled professionally for full legal compliance from day one.
How long does sole trader registration take?
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HMRC registration takes 7-10 working days, UTR number is issued within 10-15 working days. Complete process: 3-4 weeks total. You can start trading immediately after HMRC confirmation - no need to wait for your UTR number.
What business expenses can I claim?
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Office costs, business travel, equipment, professional services, marketing expenses, training costs, and home office expenses. All expenses must be wholly for business purposes, with receipts kept as evidence.
What are my tax obligations as a sole trader?
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Register with HMRC within 3 months, complete annual self-assessment by 31st January, pay income tax on profits above £12,570, pay National Insurance contributions (Class 2 and Class 4), keep business records for 6 years, and register for VAT if turnover exceeds £90,000.
Sole trader vs limited company: Which is right for you?
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Sole trader: You and your business are the same entity with unlimited liability, simple tax treatment, minimal paperwork, and you keep all profits after tax.
Limited company: Separate legal entity with liability protection, more complex taxation, higher compliance costs, but better credibility and potential tax advantages for higher earners.
Choose sole trader for simplicity and lower costs. Consider a company when profits exceed £50,000 or when you need liability protection.
Can I use a different business name?
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Yes, you can trade under any business name without formal registration. You must display your real name on business documents and remain personally liable for all activities. Check for trademark conflicts before choosing your name.
When should I switch to a limited company?
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Consider incorporation when annual profits consistently exceed £50,000, you need liability protection, want to bring in partners/investors, or when company status enhances credibility in your industry.
