🇬🇧 How do I become a freelancer?

In order to become a FreeFlexer and work via Temper, all you have to do is create an account. You can apply for shifts right away. Keep in mind that you will have to register yourself as a freelancer for the taxman and declare your taxes along the way if you’ve earned more than £1,000 in one tax year.

Why do I have to register?

Registration as a freelancer means you’ll be able to do your (bi)annual tax returns. As you’re your own boss, it’s up to you to do these Self Assessment tax returns. Online registration at the HMRC enables a business tax account which allows you to do returns as a self-employed professional.

How do I register?

Registration for Self Assessment is quite easy. Just visit the specific gov.uk website, and log in using your Government Gateway user ID. Now select ‘Add a tax, duty or scheme now’ and select ‘Self Assessment for individuals, sole traders, partnerships or trusts’. Follow the steps and the registration will be complete with the notification that you’ll receive a Unique Tax Reference (UTR) number by post within 10 days. This code is needed when doing your Self Assessments.

Sole trader or limited company?

There are 2 ways to work as a freelancer, either as a sole trader or as a limited company. For most FreeFlexers, registration as a sole trader is the smart choice, due to the type of work, the simplicity of registration and taxation, and because it could be the more economic option.

By when do I need to register?

It’s not necessary to register with the HMRC straight away, but as you work more shifts, you will need to. If your revenue surpasses £1,000 in one tax year, you need to register before October 5 the next tax year. For instance, if you’ve generated £1,200 in the tax year of 2021/2022, you need to register for Self Assessment before October 5 2022. For the tax year of 2022/2023 you’ll need to take those steps before October 5 2023.

What taxes am I faced with?

When registered as a sole trader, you’re faced with income tax, National Insurance Contributions and Payments on account, which you’ll need to pay by January 31st and in most cases by July 31st as well. You can read more about the taxes you face as a FreeFlexer here.