What happens if I register as self-employed late?
In this guide, we explain the official rules, how HMRC treats late registration, the potential penalties, and what to do if you’ve missed the deadline.
Selling up as a sole trader: tax, valuation and practical steps
Step-by-step guide to selling your sole trader business, from working out value and finding a buyer to tax rules and timing your sale.
Sole trader vs limited company – pros and cons explained
Should you run your business as a sole trader or set up a limited company? We explain the pros and cons of each – including setting up, tax and liability.
15 steps to take when you become self-employed in 2025
Thinking of going self-employed? Here are 12 practical steps to help you register, set up, and start trading – even while still working.
Can I register as self-employed while claiming Universal Credit or other benefits?
Plenty of people start a small business while still receiving benefits. It might be a side hustle alongside another job, or simply a way to test out self-employment without giving…
Professional membership and registration for sole traders
Do sole traders need professional membership or registration? Learn which jobs are regulated and when joining a body can help your business.
Jury service and how it affects the self-employed
Jury service can disrupt work if you’re self-employed. Find out who is eligible, how to defer, what you can claim, and the impact on employers.
Can you be self-employed and employed at the same time?
Lots of people have a regular job (as an employee) and also run a side business. You might be working full-time and selling online at weekends, tutoring in the evenings,…
Can you run multiple sole trader businesses at once?
Can you run more than one sole trader business? HMRC rules explained, with tips on records, tax returns, bank accounts and when to get an accountant.
When does your business officially start trading?
Unsure when your business officially starts? This guide explains how HMRC defines the start of trading, with examples of what does and doesn’t count.