How to Register as Self-Employed in the UK (2025 Guide)
Thinking of becoming your own boss? If you’re starting freelance work or a side hustle, you’ll need to let HMRC know you’re self-employed. Here’s exactly how to register — step-by-step.
🧾 Step 1: Understand Who Needs to Register
You need to register as self-employed if:
- You earned £1,000 or more from self-employment in the last tax year
- You run your own business and aren’t employed by someone else
- You want to submit a Self Assessment tax return to declare your earnings
Even part-time freelancers or people with a side hustle must register.
Before you get started, check out our Freelancer Toolkit — a curated list of essential tools and services.
🧑💻 Step 2: Create a Government Gateway Account
TBefore registering, you’ll need a Government Gateway account:
- Visit gov.uk/sign-in-gateway
- Click ‘Create sign in details’
- Enter your email address, full name, and create a password
You’ll receive a Government Gateway user ID — keep this safe.
📝 Step 3: Register as Self-Employed with HMRC
Now you can register with HMRC:
- Go to gov.uk/register-for-self-assessment
- Choose ‘Register if you’re self-employed’
- Sign in with your Government Gateway ID
- Complete the online form (name, NI number, address, nature of business)
You’ll receive:
- A Unique Taxpayer Reference (UTR) by post within 10 days
- Access to file your first Self Assessment return online
📅 Deadlines to Know
- You must register by 5 October following the end of the tax year in which you started trading
- Example: If you started freelance work in July 2025, register by 5 October 2026
🧠 Final Tips
Keep records from Day 1 (invoices, expenses, mileage, etc.)
Consider tools like business bank accounts and basic accounting software
Unsure if you need an accountant? See: Do Freelancers Need an Accountant?
Don’t forget to stay compliant with tax rules: Self-Employed Tax Guide