7 min read
UTR Number Explained: What It Is, How to Get One from HMRC
A UTR number is a 10-digit reference from HMRC for Self Assessment. Learn how to get one, where to find a lost UTR, and why you need it as self-employed.
Getting Started
Self-Employed Guides
Practical guides for freelancers, sole traders, and self-employed professionals.
8 min read
How to Choose MTD-Compatible Software for Self-Employed
Compare MTD-compatible software options for sole traders. Covers record-keeping apps, bridging tools, free plans, and what to check before signing up.
Special Cases
8 min read
Student Loan Repayments Through Self Assessment for the Self-Employed
How self-employed people repay student loans through Self Assessment. Plan 1, 2, 4, 5 thresholds, rates, and worked examples for sole traders.
Special Cases
10 min read
Capital Allowances for Self-Employed: How to Claim
Claim capital allowances on equipment, vehicles, and tools as self-employed in the UK. Covers AIA, writing-down allowances, and 2026/27 rates.
Income & Expenses
9 min read
National Insurance for Self-Employed: Rates and How It Works
Learn how Class 2 and Class 4 National Insurance work for the self-employed. See current rates, thresholds, and how to pay NIC through Self Assessment.
Income & Expenses
9 min read
How Long to Keep Tax Records as Self-Employed in the UK
Find out how long to keep self-employed tax records. HMRC requires at least 5 years after the filing deadline — see the rules, exceptions, and what to store.
Records & Evidence
8 min read
UK Tax Changes April 2026: Self-Employed and Landlord Guide
Key UK tax changes from April 2026 for self-employed people and landlords: Making Tax Digital goes live, dividend rates rise, BADR hits 18%. Act now.
Payments & Deadlines
8 min read
Phone and Internet Tax Deductions for Self-Employed UK
Claim phone, broadband, and software costs as self-employed in the UK. Split personal and business use, see what qualifies, and calculate your deduction.
Income & Expenses
8 min read
Tax Year-End Checklist for Self-Employed (2025/26)
Use this self-employed tax year-end checklist to handle expenses, pensions, records, and MTD prep before 5 April 2026. Stay organised and save on tax.
Payments & Deadlines
11 min read
Self-Employed vs Limited Company: Tax, Cost and Admin Compared
Self-employed vs limited company — compare tax, admin costs and liability side by side. Find out which UK business structure fits your income level.
Getting Started
8 min read
Simplified Expenses Explained for the Self-Employed
HMRC simplified expenses let self-employed people use flat rates for vehicles, home working, and business premises. Compare rates vs actual costs here.
Income & Expenses
9 min read
How to Budget for Your Tax Bill as Self-Employed in the UK
Budget for your self-employed tax bill with the 25-30% savings rule, HMRC Budget Payment Plans, and a dedicated tax account. Avoid the January surprise.
Payments & Deadlines
9 min read
How to Register for Self Assessment: HMRC Online Guide
Learn how to register for Self Assessment with HMRC. Covers Government Gateway setup, getting your UTR number, deadlines, and what to do after registration.
Getting Started
10 min read
Self-Employed Mileage Allowance and Vehicle Claims
Claim your self-employed mileage allowance using HMRC rates (45p/25p) or actual vehicle costs. Compare both methods, see worked examples, and start saving.
Income & Expenses
10 min read
Making Tax Digital for Self-Employed: What You Need to Do Now
Making Tax Digital is live from April 2026 for self-employed with income over £50,000. Learn about quarterly updates, software, sign-up steps, and deadlines.
Payments & Deadlines
7 min read
What Records to Keep When You're Self-Employed in the UK
Which records HMRC expects self-employed people to keep, how long to store them, digital vs paper options, and tips for organising Self Assessment paperwork.
Records & Evidence
7 min read
Working From Home Expenses: What Self-Employed Can Claim
How to claim working from home expenses as self-employed in the UK. Simplified flat rates vs actual costs, what qualifies, and how to calculate your claim.
Special Cases
7 min read
What Expenses Can You Claim as Self-Employed?
A practical guide to allowable business expenses for UK sole traders and freelancers. Learn what you can deduct and how to calculate mixed-use costs correctly.
Income & Expenses
10 min read
Payments on Account Explained for the Self-Employed
Learn why HMRC asks for advance payments and how to calculate, reduce, or budget for your payments on account as self-employed filing Self Assessment.
Payments & Deadlines
6 min read
Do I Need to Register as Self-Employed with HMRC?
Find out if you need to register as self-employed with HMRC. Learn about the £1,000 trading allowance, deadlines, and what counts as self-employment.
Getting Started
9 min read
Common Self Assessment Mistakes to Avoid When Filing
Learn the most common Self Assessment errors that trigger HMRC enquiries or penalties. Avoid these mistakes when filing your tax return to save time and money.
Filing & Submissions
8 min read
Filing Your First Self Assessment Tax Return Online
A step-by-step guide to filing your first Self Assessment tax return online. Learn what information you need, how to submit, and avoid common mistakes.
Filing & Submissions
10 min read
What Happens If You Miss the Self Assessment Deadline?
Missed the Self Assessment deadline? Learn about HMRC penalties, interest charges, and what steps to take now to minimise the damage and get back on track.
Payments & Deadlines