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Clear, practical help for the self-employed

UK guides for sole traders, freelancers and anyone starting out on their own — covering HMRC, tax returns, expenses, banking, insurance and pensions.

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New to self-employment?Find out how to start as a sole trader, register with HMRC and get your business set up properly.

Trading through a limited company?See our limited company guides →
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Guides for sole traders and the self-employed

Start with the subject you need help with.


01
Getting started
Becoming self-employed, registering with HMRC and setting up your business.


02
Tax & HMRC
Self Assessment, National Insurance, VAT and Making Tax Digital.


03
Accounts & expenses
Bookkeeping, allowable expenses, invoices and getting paid.


04
Business banking
Choosing an account, comparing charges and protecting your money.


05
Business insurance
Public liability, professional indemnity and other business cover.


06
Pensions
SIPPs, pension tax relief and saving for retirement when you work for yourself.


07
Protecting yourself
Income protection, private healthcare and financial protection.


Also
Limited companies
Separate guides for company directors, tax, accounts and Companies House.

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