Starting a Business — Guides, Tips & Expert Advice
How to start a business in the UK — registration, tax, banking, and first steps for sole traders.
76 articles on Starting a Business
Registering a Limited Company in the UK: Is It Worth It?
Thinking about forming a limited company? Learn the process, costs, and whether incorporation makes sense for your business.
Sole Trader Tax Guide: Your First Year
A practical guide to tax in your first year as a sole trader. What to track, what to claim, and when to pay.
Sole Trader vs Freelancer: Is There a Difference?
People use "sole trader" and "freelancer" interchangeably, but they are not quite the same thing. Here is the distinction.
Sole Trader vs Limited Company: Which Structure Is Right for You
Choosing between sole trader and limited company is one of the biggest decisions when starting a business. Compare the tax, liability, and admin implications.
Starting a Business While Employed: What You Need to Know
Many people start a side business while still employed. Learn the tax implications, your obligations to your employer, and how to manage both.
Unique Taxpayer Reference (UTR): How to Get Yours
Your UTR is your unique identifier with HMRC. Learn what it is, how to get one, and what to do if you have lost it.
What Is a Sole Trader? A Simple Explanation
A sole trader is the simplest way to run a business in the UK. Here is what it means, how it works, and whether it is right for you.
When Should You Switch from Sole Trader to Limited Company?
At some point, incorporating as a limited company may save you tax. Here are the signs it is time to consider the switch.
Your First 90 Days as a New Sole Trader — A Survival Guide
A week-by-week survival guide for your first 90 days as a sole trader, covering HMRC registration, bookkeeping, and building habits.
Tax Implications of Converting a Hobby to a Business
Discover when HMRC considers your hobby a business and the tax implications of making the switch, including registration and expenses.
Career Changers Going Freelance — A Complete Tax Starter Guide
Switching careers to go freelance? This guide covers everything from HMRC registration and tax obligations to expenses, National Insurance, and record-keeping.
Famous People Who Started as Sole Traders
Some of the world's most successful people started out as sole traders. Discover the inspiring stories behind famous entrepreneurs who began small.
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