Getting help with tax if you're self-employed

This information applies to England and Wales.

When you are self-employed, you are responsible for paying your own taxes. It can also affect the benefits you receive.

Help available with tax (GOV.UK)

Self-employed tax advice (IPSE)

What you need to do if you become self-employed

You will need to do things like:

• keep records of money coming in and going out of your business
• register as self-employed
• submit a tax return
• pay National Insurance

If you need help, look at:

• Self-employment pros and cons
• Self-employment (GOV.UK)
• Tax and National Insurance when you’re self-employed (MoneyHelper)

Help and support starting your business

A work coach at your local job centre can help you find support and funding, such as:

• Finance and support for your business (GOV.UK)
• Access to Work grant scheme
• The Federation of Small Businesses

Find out what benefits you can claim

Hiring an accountant

An accountant can help you to:

• claim tax-deductible business expenses and special tax allowances
• focus on running your business by saving you time and stress
• fill in complex forms

Hiring the right accountant can be even more important than hiring a member of staff. Ask them about their experience and what they can do for you. Recommendations by family, friends and professional people you know can be a good place to start.

You can also search online for accountants in your area. Make sure that they are reliable and legitimate. One way to do this is to ensure that they are a chartered accountant. This means that they have completed at least 3 years of training and exams.

Chartered accountants are accredited by the ICAEW (Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales) and ACCA (Association of Chartered Certified Accountants).

Search for a chartered accountant (ICAEW)