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.
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Step 1 Check if being self-employed is right for you
There are other ways to work for yourself. Check if you should set up as one of the following instead:
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Step 2 Choose the name you want to trade under
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Step 3 Check what records you'll need to keep
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Step 4 Register for tax
To pay tax, you'll need to register for Self Assessment.
You might need to register in a different way if:
You may also need to register for VAT.