First time Self employed

[StephF]

Keep All reciepts, and invoices for any business expenses, so you can put them against your profit and pay less tax. Get a system of recording payment and reciepts that you keep up to date,( it is hell trying to do it months later), even a basic account book if no computer account skills. Invoice for all work and keep a copies, remember a % of all you earn(not sure exact amount) is already the tax mans, so keepsome of what you are paid put aside in a bank account and then at year end you wont get a shock when a large sum is required by tax man.

[Stubby]

Make sure you have regular, reliable work and don't rely on only a couple of sources of work as if they dry up, you are in trouble. Don't be afraid to charge what you need to charge-you won't help yourself by cutting your own throat. Finally, be keen, punctual, reliable and don't pretend you can do something you can't. Good luck!

 

All the above and get a good accountant who knows his **** .

[Arb Dave]

Thanks guys, all this advice is sinking in and proving to be very helpful in the decision making process

[sandypandy99]

i left collage and became self employed as i could not find work on the books in my area. i had every intention to find someone to take me on but now 3 years on im still self employed and loving it. i started by sending letters too all tree surgeons/arborists in the area to get my foot in the door i only had one reply BUT people talk and now i do a verity of work for some very good companies working 6 days a week if i want it. be reliable, willing to learn and show your worth and you will be fine only advice id give you is keep up with your diary dont double book ppl hate being let down. personally i give my diary to them if the dates there they fill it :001_smile:

good luck

[Arb Dave]

Thanks SP,

 

That's helped alot

[Bassett]

Thanks SP,

 

That's helped alot

 

Hi Dave.

 

Becoming self-employed is bloody hard, but the rewards and personal growth you'll experience through the process is more than worth it.

 

Keep us updated.

[Dr.Green]

self emplyed is good crack , only because i dont work on a monday because ive been out all weekend