Set up and register as self-employed

Last Updated: 29 Nov 2021

Contents

  1. What does this involve?
  2. Am I eligible?
  3. What does this cost?
  4. Who is this for?
  5. How long does this take?
  6. Important information
  7. Next steps

Support provided by Business Gateway

What does this involve?

You must register as self-employed to set up as a sole trader. You will register with HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC), which will then ask you to complete a Self Assessment tax return each year. This will ensure that you pay the correct amount of tax and National Insurance contributions.

Am I eligible?

Yes, if you are thinking about starting, or already run, a business in Scotland.

What does this cost?

This is a free and impartial service.

Who is this for?

Any potential start-up or new business based in Scotland.

How long does this take?

It takes 1 minute to read up on the basics of setting up and registering as self-employed.

Important information

You must register as self-employed to ensure that you file Self Assessment tax returns and pay the correct tax and National Insurance contributions.

Next steps

Visit the Business Gateway website for more advice on how to set up and register as self-employed.

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Support provided by Business Gateway

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