What you need to know before setting up your own business as a Sole Trader.
We receive a number of questions from clients here at Ascentant. Here, Kevin Drew, Managing Director answers some of the common queries that new businesses ask before establishing a Sole Trader enterprise.
Q – What taxes are due for a sole trader company?
A – A sole trader will need to complete an annual self-assessment tax
return and pay tax/NI on profits. Payments on account may be required
to pay tax twice a year in January and July depending on the amount due.
Q – Who do I need to register with?
A – You should register with HMRC for a UTR number when beginning self-employment.
Q – How do I register my business name?
A – You cannot register a company name as a sole trader, however you
can choose a trading name to trade under. You should check that you are
not infringing on a trademark or passing off another named business.
Q – Who is liable in the event of a legal dispute?
A – In the event of a legal dispute, you will be sued personally unless you have suitable insurance. You and the business are the same legal entity.
Q – Can I obtain business finance?
A – If looking for a loan or business finance, you and the business
are the same entity. You will therefore need to offer a personal
guarantee against any business credit or finance.
Q – How can I pay myself?
A – You can withdraw profits from the business, but it is not classed as remuneration as you are not an employee.
Q – Can I claim expenses working from home?
A – You will be able to claim a deduction for mortgage interest, rates and light and heat if you have an office at home.
Q –What expenses can I claim?
A – You can claim capital allowances on the purchase of a computer,
but mobile phones will be subject to a private usage adjustment. You
will be able to claim tax relief on expenses incurred wholly and
exclusively for business.
Q – How much will accountancy fees cost?
A – Generally a self-assessment tax return will cost around £100+VAT
and production of a set of financial statements or accounts in the
region of £200 – £300.
Ascentant Accountancy are Bookkeepers, Accountants and Business consultants. We are an Accountant based in Derby with an office in London and have assisted many times in the setting up of a sole trader business.
