Now the great moment has arrived. You can register by phoning the Newly Self-Employed Help Line (Tel: 08459 15 45 15) or by post by filling in a yellow booklet known as 'SE1'.
Alternatively you can download the resgistration form also as a PDF from the HM Revenues and Custmons website. just type 'CWF1' into the 'Search Box'. Then print off the blue form, fill it in, keep a photocopy and post the original back to HMRC.
You will need a National Insurance Number if you don't have one contact the HMRC and the will make an appointment with you; it is a straightforward process.
Then using the website you can either register for Class Two National Insurance (£2.20 a week), by downloading a peach coloured PDF form from the HM Revenues and Custmons website by typing 'CA5601' into the Search Box. However if you don't think your profits over a year will be more than a few thousand pounds then you can apply for 'Class Two NI Exemption certificate' which you can download by typing 'CF10' in the Search Box. So either you decide to pay the contribution or be exempt, but you can't do both!
Note: If you are from a acountry outside of the European Union you may have aproblem with trading in the UK. Currently there are very tough regulations on Non EU Citizens trading in the UK linked with student and work visas. It is advisable to see the advice of a good immigration solicitor before contacting the Home Office.
Within a few weeks you will then be given a self-employment number (aka Tax Reference) that will enable you to sell your work legally and trade as a freelancer on commissions and short-term contracts. You should quote this numer on all your invoices (bills of sales) to purchasers of your products and services.
Upon registration, ask about the Business Support Team (Tel: 020 7667 4827/ 4828/ 4829/ 4830). They give free advice, training and one to one advice on tax, self-employment issues, statutory requirements and all the rules and regulations governing self-employment. They will offer you a personal advisor and also offer an extremely useful publication entitled 'Cutting Through the Red Tape,' an easy to use guide for running your business.
In addition find out about your local tax office. Many area offices are quite approachable and will answer queries on tax issues and assist you with filling in your self-assessment forms (aka A Tax Return). It is worth giving them a call and letting them know you will be registering.
For more information about HMRC tax and self-assessment help lines see Tax, Pensions and Accountants
Other Useful Links
Medi Visas
These are immigration solicitors, they offer a free consultation. The Medi Visas website also explains the regulations concering the rules about visas and the tough new ones regarding trading for Non European residents.
Tax Aid
Tel: 0845 120 3779
A charity offering tax advice to those who cannot afford professional fees, remember this organsiation, they could be useful.