Are You Really Freelance?
HMRC distinguishes between employment and self-employment. You’re likely freelance (self-employed) if:[1]
- You have multiple clients
- You control how and when you work
- You can hire someone else to do the work
- You invoice for your work and bear financial risk
- You provide your own equipment
Getting Started
- Register as self-employed with HMRC (within 3 months of starting, or by 5 October)[1]
- Choose your accounting method: cash basis or accruals
- Set up a separate bank account (recommended but not legally required)
- Start keeping records of all income and expenses
Invoicing
Your invoices should include:[4]
- Your name and contact details
- A unique invoice number
- The date
- Description of services provided
- Amount due
- Payment terms and bank details
Common Freelancer Expenses
Deductible expenses for freelancers typically include:[2]
- Computer and software
- Office supplies
- Working-from-home costs
- Travel to client sites
- Professional insurance
- Accountancy fees
- Training directly related to your work
- Phone and internet (business proportion)
When Tax Is Due
Freelancers pay tax through Self Assessment:[3]
| Date | What |
|---|---|
| 31 January | Balancing payment + first payment on account |
| 31 July | Second payment on account |
Save as you go: Set aside 25–30% of each payment you receive. By the time your tax bill arrives, the money is already there.
IR35 & Off-Payroll Working
If you work through your own limited company and provide services to a single client, the IR35 rules may apply. See our IR35 & Off-Payroll Working guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do freelancers need to register with HMRC?
Yes, if your gross trading income exceeds £1,000. You must register as self-employed within 3 months of starting, or by 5 October following your first tax year. Below £1,000, the trading allowance covers it automatically.
When do freelancers pay their tax bill?
Freelancers pay tax through Self Assessment. The balancing payment plus first payment on account is due by 31 January, and the second payment on account is due by 31 July.
How much should a freelancer save for tax?
A good rule of thumb is to set aside 25–30% of each payment you receive. By the time your tax bill arrives, the money is already there in a separate savings account.
What expenses can freelancers claim?
Common deductions include computers and software, office supplies, working-from-home costs, travel to client sites, professional insurance, accountancy fees, training related to your work, and the business proportion of phone and internet costs.
Further Reading
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Sources
- Working for yourself — GOV.UK
- Expenses if you're self-employed — GOV.UK
- Self Assessment tax returns — GOV.UK
- Invoicing and records — GOV.UK
- Cash basis — GOV.UK