Sole Trader Explained (UK Guide for 2026)

Blog 19 February 2026

What Is a Sole Trader?

A sole trader is the simplest business structure in the UK. It means you run your business as an individual and are legally the same as your business.

This structure is extremely popular with freelancers, tradespeople, consultants, and side hustlers because it is quick to set up and easy to manage.

You can be a sole trader as your only job or be employed and self-employed at the same time.

✅ Key Features of a Sole Trader

Full Control - One owner only and You make all business decisions.
Simple registration with HMRC - https://www.gov.uk/register-for-self-assessment
You keep all profits – After you have paid tax and NIC liabilities (Taxes and NIC explained later)
Unlimited personal liability - Your personal assets are at risk if the business has debts.
Privacy - Your finances are not public.

🚀 How to Register as a Sole Trader

Setting up is straightforward:

Register for Self Assessment with HMRC
Receive your UTR number
Keep records of income and expenses
Submit your annual tax return

You must register if you earn more than £1,000 from self-employment in a tax year.

💰 Taxes Sole Traders Pay

As a UK sole trader, you typically pay:

Income Tax – to find out more about the different rates check out the HMRC website (https://www.gov.uk/income-tax-rates)
Class 2 National Insurance
Class 4 National Insurance
VAT (if turnover exceeds the threshold)

🧠 Who Should Choose Sole Trader Status?

Best suited for:

New businesses
Freelancers
Trades
Side hustles

Useful Information for Sole Traders

1. What’s the date of my tax year as a sole trader?

In the UK, the tax year for a sole trader runs from 6 April to 5 April

2. When’s the deadline for my tax return?

For the 2025/2026 UK tax year (ending 5 April 2026), the deadline to file your Self-Assessment tax return online and pay any tax owed is 31 January 2027.

Basically its 10 months after the year end (April 5th April 20XX).