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How to set up as a sole trader
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How to set up as a sole trader

If you are widely referred to as a freelancer, it’s likely you are a sole trader. It means that you can keep all your business’s profits after tax, but also that you are responsible for the debt or financial responsibilities of your company.

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When do I need to set up as a sole trader?

According to GOV.UK, you need to set up as a sole trader if any of the following apply:

  • You earned more than £1,000 from self-employment between 6 April two years ago and 5 April last year
  • You need to prove you’re self-employed, for example to claim tax-free childcare
  • You want to make voluntary Class 2 National Insurance payments to help you qualify for benefits

Find out more here.

When do I need to set up as a sole trader

Further support with setting up as a sole trader

IPSE is running an incubator programme to support those who are new to self-employment. This 12-month programme covers everything from setting up, networking, and mental health as a freelancer. For more information, contact one of the membership team.

There is a ‘Set up as a sole trader’ step-by-step plan on GOV.UK, which you can do here.

Further support with setting up as a sole trader

Looking for more advice? We can help.

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