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Taxionary

Self-employed

[sɛlf-ɪmˈplɔɪd]

Term

Summary:

Self-employed means that an individual works for themselves. The money earned from self-employment is untaxed so a Self Assessment must be filed with HMRC.

More detail:

Self-employed refers to individuals that work for themselves. Self-employed individuals are solely responsible for managing their own business, finances, and taxes.

A Self-employed individual, also known as a Sole Trader, needs to register with HMRC as the money they earn is untaxed. So, the individual must submit a Self Assessment tax return to pay the taxes they owe. The first £1000 earned by Self-employed individuals is tax-free and is called the Trading Allowance.

The profit made from Self-employment is liable for Income Tax and National Insurance contributions. The same rate of Income Tax is paid but usually less National Insurance is paid.

Self-employed individuals usually have more flexibility about how long and when the work. However, they miss out on Employee benefits like holiday pay. It is also thought to be less secure than employment.

Individuals can be both Employed and Self-employed. If these individuals earn more than the Trading Allowance, they must also submit a Self Assessment.

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