Going Solo: What Freelancers Need to Know About Registering with HMRC

So, you’ve taken the leap into freelancing – whether that’s filming live events, designing client logos, writing scripts, editing reels, or creating content for brands. Exciting times! But amongst the buzz of landing gigs and sending out your first invoices, there’s a less glamorous task you can’t ignore: telling HMRC that you’re now self-employed.

When do you need to register?

As soon as you start working for yourself and earning money outside of PAYE employment, you’re officially self-employed in HMRC’s eyes. That doesn’t mean you need to register the second you accept your first freelance job, but you must register by 5 October following the end of the tax year in which you started.

For example:

• You pick up your first freelance editing job in September 2025.

• That’s within the 2025/26 tax year (which runs 6 April 2025 to 5 April 2026).

• You’ll need to register with HMRC by 5 October 2026.

What happens if you’re late?

Miss the deadline and HMRC could issue you with a penalty. The longer you leave it, the worse it gets. Even if you don’t owe much (or anything!) in tax, HMRC can still fine you just for missing the registration deadline. And if you fail to register altogether, you’re essentially invisible to the system – which might sound tempting but usually ends in stress, interest charges, and larger penalties once HMRC inevitably catches up.

Filing your tax return – why earlier is better

Once registered, you’ll need to complete a Self Assessment tax return every year. The deadline for online filing is 31 January following the end of the tax year. But here’s a freelancer-friendly tip: don’t leave it to January.

Filing early has benefits:

• Clarity on your tax bill – You’ll know exactly what you owe months in advance, giving you time to budget (and no nasty surprises when everyone else is panicking in January).

• Chance to claim refunds sooner – If you’ve overpaid tax (maybe through a day job alongside freelancing), you’ll get that money back faster.

• Peace of mind – No last-minute stress when you should be focusing on projects, pitches, and clients.

• Better planning – Knowing your tax position early means you can make smarter decisions about investments, equipment purchases, or even setting aside money for a summer break.

📌 Bonus tip: Filing early doesn't mean you pay your tax early. The tax payment deadline remains at 31st January regardless of when you file. 

Key takeaways for creatives

• Register by 5 October after your first freelance year starts.

• Don’t delay – penalties can apply even if your tax bill is small.

• File your return early to stay in control of your cash flow and reduce stress.

Freelancing in the creative industries comes with enough deadlines already – don’t make HMRC another one you dread. A little organisation now saves a lot of pain later.