The Nuts and Bolts of Self Employment
There are over 5 million self employed folk in the UK. Small businesses are the backbone of the British economy and represent over 15% of workforce. Whether you’re a window cleaner, a plumber, a shop owner or operate an online business, you’ve taken the brave step off the corporate ladder to be your own boss.
Recent Small Business Articles

Tide bank review – updated for 2022
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Advantages of a limited company
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How to use a Zettle card reader
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Starling Bank review for 2022 – are high street banks dead?
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Tide introduce Cashflow Insights – so what is it?
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Finally! A sensible threshold for UK National Insurance
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Browse all public articles here or member-only content here.
Small Business Basics

Registering as self employed in the UK
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Do you pay Tax on Small Earnings in the UK?
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Choosing a Business Name?
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Do You Need a Business Bank Account in the UK?
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How Much Should I Charge?
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Limited company or sole trader – what’s the difference?
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Thinking of becoming self employed? From invoicing customers through to picking a business name – visit this page for your checklist of essential small business knowledge.
About this Site
Welcome to the Small Business Toolbox! I’m Andy Mac and I’ve been self employed for AAAAGES! This is a no-nonsense and completely independent guide to self employment and small business life in the UK. Written by the self employed, for the self employed.
Running a small business can be one of the most exciting experiences of your life. It all starts with being self employed and this site is here to keep you company on your self-made journey.
Concerned about privacy? Please read our Privacy Policy before watching videos on this site - link at the bottom of every page. Thank you!
Important dates for 2022/2023
CURRENT TAX YEAR: 2022/23
You are working in the tax year covering 6th April 2022 to 5th April 2023.
TAX RETURN YEAR: 2021/22
You should have submitted your tax return for the tax year covering 6th April 2021 to 5th April 2022.
TAX DEADLINE: 31 Jan 2023
The final deadline for your current tax return and any tax due is 31 Jan 2023 — this is for the 2021/22 tax year. It doesn’t cover deadlines for any payments on account. For more key dates and figures visit this page.
Recent Member-Only Articles

Profit Explained Spreadsheet (Members Only)
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Spreadsheet Example Download (Members Only)
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Tax and NI Calculator (Members Only)
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Hourly Rate Calculator (Members Only)
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Become a Member
Get access to member-only downloads and other exclusive content. From invoice templates through to income trackers and more. You will also be able to post comments on articles. Remember you can cancel your subscription at any time.