Set up as self-employed (a 'sole trader'): step by step

What you need to do when you start working for yourself, either as your only job or at the same time as working for an employer.

  1. Step 1 Check if being self-employed is right for you

  2. Step 2 Choose the name you want to trade under

  3. Step 3 Check what records you'll need to keep

  4. Step 4 Register for tax

    To pay tax, you'll need to register for Self Assessment.

    1. Apply for a National Insurance number if you do not have one
    2. Register for Self Assessment

    You might need to register in a different way if:

    You may also need to register for VAT.

    1. Check if you need to register for VAT