These pages aim to help you understand some of the many things you need to think about when you're running a business, especially the main tax and National Insurance (NI) issues. We also point to some other important areas of the law which aren't the responsibility of HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC)- and we suggest where to go for further, more detailed information.
Please follow the link that best fits your situation:
I don't know
very much - take me to a beginner's guide to working for myself/
setting up a business
We'll take you to a guide, on the Government's Business Link website,
to all aspects of starting in business.
I'm
not sure whether I should be registered as self-employed - help
me decide
Read our guidance on deciding whether or not you're self-employed.
I need to register
as self-employed
Read our guidance on the options for registering as self-employed
and complete your application online.
How might NI and tax affect your business?
Read our introduction to the business taxes and NI, with links to
more information from the HMRC website.
Do I need to register for VAT- help me
decide
Read our introduction to Value Added Tax.
