Guide for Self-Employed Individuals

1. Getting Started

  • Register with HMRC: You must register as self-employed with HMRC to receive your Unique Taxpayer Reference (UTR) number.
  • Choose a Business Name (Advisory): It’s not mandatory, but choosing a distinct name can help with branding and credibility.
  • Business Bank Account (Advisory): Not a legal requirement, but having a separate account makes record-keeping much easier and more professional.

2. Tax & National Insurance

  • Self Assessment: You must file a Self Assessment tax return each year. The deadline for online submissions is 31st January.
  • Allowable Expenses: Claim back eligible business expenses (e.g., tools, travel, office supplies) to reduce your tax bill. Keep all receipts and records.
  • National Insurance: You’ll pay both Class 2 and Class 4 NICs depending on your profit level. These contributions help qualify you for state pension and benefits.
  • Making Tax Digital: HMRC is moving to digital tax reporting. Keep informed on when it may apply to your business.

3. Managing Your Finances

  • Keep Accurate Records: Use spreadsheets, Xero, QuickBooks or similar software to track every transaction.
  • Professional Invoicing: Always issue invoices with your name, business name, payment terms, UTR, and a unique invoice number.
  • Save for Tax: Put aside 25–30% of each payment you receive into a separate account for your tax bill to avoid surprises at year-end.

4. Pensions & Savings

  • Private Pensions: Set up a Self-Invested Personal Pension (SIPP) or other personal pension scheme. You’ll receive tax relief on your contributions.
  • Emergency Fund: Aim to save 3–6 months of living costs in an easily accessible account to protect against slow business periods or unexpected costs.

5. Flat-Rate VAT Scheme (Optional)

  • Eligibility: If your turnover (excluding VAT) is under £150,000 annually, you may qualify for the Flat Rate VAT Scheme.
  • How It Works: You charge 20% VAT to clients but only pay a fixed percentage (based on your trade type) to HMRC — keeping the difference as income.
  • Registration: You must register for VAT and opt into the flat rate scheme during that process or shortly after.
  • Considerations: This scheme can simplify VAT reporting and may benefit service-based contractors/subcontractors — but you can’t reclaim VAT on most purchases.

This guide is designed to give freelancers and subcontractors a clear starting point. For tailored support, consider speaking with us.