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Go Self Employed

Not sure if self-employment is right for you?

This section will help you understand what it means to work for yourself, including the pros and cons, as well as the key decisions to make before you get started.

Learn about the different ways you can set up a new business, how to register with the authorities, and what to expect in your first few months.

If you’re ready to become self-employed for the first time – or just exploring the idea – start with our 15 steps to becoming self-employed.

Compare the two main business structures too – sole trader vs. limited company.

partnership agreement

The risks of setting up a partnership without an agreement

February 4, 2026
Learn why partnership agreements matter, who should have one, and the clauses that help avoid disputes and protect your business.
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start business evenings

How to successfully start a small business in the evenings

January 23, 2026
If you think a lack of time stops you from launching your own business, think again. We look at how you can start your own business in the evenings.
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set up a partnership

How to set up in business as a partnership in 2026

January 22, 2026
How to set up and run a business partnership - including legal considerations, how to choose a name, register the partnership with HMRC and pay taxes.
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become self employed sole trader

15 steps to take when you become self-employed in 2026

January 4, 2026
Thinking of going self-employed? Here are 12 practical steps to help you register, set up, and start trading in 2026 – even while still working.
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sole trader vs limited company

Sole trader vs limited company – pros and cons explained

December 18, 2025
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.
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register late sole trader

What happens if I register as self-employed late?

October 24, 2025
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.
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sell business sole trader self employed

Selling up as a sole trader: tax, valuation and practical steps

October 4, 2025
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.
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universal credit self employed

Can I register as self-employed while claiming Universal Credit or other benefits?

September 9, 2025
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…
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membership professional sole trader

Professional membership and registration for sole traders

September 9, 2025
Do sole traders need professional membership or registration? Learn which jobs are regulated and when joining a body can help your business.
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self employed jury service

Jury service and how it affects the self-employed

September 2, 2025
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.
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Brand new ByteStart guides
  • Are advertising and marketing expenses tax deductible for sole traders?
  • Can sole traders claim bank charges and interest as expenses?
  • Setting up accounts if you’re self-employed – a beginner’s guide



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