Self-Employed Tax
PayToolkit's self-employed tax articles: practical UK tax guidance, worked examples, and links to the right free calculator for each topic.
Going self-employed changes almost everything about how you're taxed: no PAYE doing the maths for you, Class 2 and Class 4 National Insurance to factor in, and a tax bill that lands months after the income does. Our Sole Trader Tax Calculator works out Income Tax and NICs together so you can see your real take-home from day one, and the Sole Trader vs Limited Company Calculator helps if you're weighing up incorporating.
Wondering whether Payments on Account will apply to your first tax bill? Check whether you'll need Payments on Account before it catches you out. And whatever your trade — gig work, a side hustle alongside employment, or full-time self-employment — the Gig Driver Tax Calculator and PAYE + Side Hustle Tax Calculator cover the common combinations.
Self-Employed vs Employed UK 2026/27: Tax Difference Explained
How does tax differ for self-employed vs employed workers in 2026/27? Side-by-side comparison of income tax, NI, expenses, pension, and take-home pay.
ContractorsIR35 Explained: What It Means for UK Contractors in 2026/27
How inside vs outside IR35 affects your take-home pay, who now decides your status, and the three key tests HMRC applies. With real figures.
ExpensesAllowable Expenses That Side Hustlers Forget to Claim
Common business expenses that self-employed people and side hustlers miss out on. Stop overpaying tax by claiming everything you are entitled to.
Self Employed5 Tax Mistakes Self-Employed People Make (And How to Avoid Them)
From missed deadlines to wrong expenses, learn the five most common tax mistakes that cost self-employed people hundreds in penalties and lost tax relief.