Self-employment
If you're thinking about becoming self-employed, we've got everything you need to get started. Figure out what jobs you can do, whether self-employment is right for you, and how to become your own boss with our handy self-employment help and advice.
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FAQs
What does being self-employed actually mean?
Being self-employed means you work for yourself rather than being employed by a business. You're your own boss, which is brilliant for flexibility, but it also makes you responsible for finding clients, managing your finances, and sorting your own taxes. Self-employment can mean freelancing, contracting, or running your own business - and you'll need a strong CV and the right self-motivation. Check out our guides on freelance work and what job suits me to figure out if it’s right for you.
What are the biggest challenges of self-employment?
The freedom to be your own boss is fantastic, but self-employment has its challenges. Inconsistent income is probably the biggest hurdle - so learning to manage your money is key. You’ll need to be super organised with deadlines, write a CV, and brush up on things like tax codes and payslips.
Do I need to declare if I’m self-employed?
Yes, you need to declare if you’re self-employed. You must let HMRC know about your new status so you can pay the right amount of tax and National Insurance. To get started, follow the steps on how to register as self-employed directly with the government. Being organised with your paperwork helps you avoid penalties and keeps your finances in check. Check out our detailed guides on tax codes and handling pay and benefits as a contractor or freelancer to find out more.