getting started

Registering as Self-Employed

No need to go all Éponine on us! We'll walk you through registering with HMRC, screen by screen, so you can step into your self-employed career with confidence.

timing matters

Register Before Your First Job

Ideally, register before you start self-employed work. But don't panic if you've already started — you have until 5th October of the next tax year to register. A tax year runs from 6th April to 5th April the following year.

after registration

What You'll Walk Away With

Your UTR

A letter with your 10-digit Unique Taxpayer Reference (UTR) — your self-employed ID. Keep it safe!

Self Assessment

Enrolment for Self Assessment online — where you'll file your tax returns each year.

An Activation Code

You'll use this to sign in for the first time. Keep it handy for your grand opening night!

psst — a little gift

Your First Tax Year Is FREE

Once you're registered, keep every receipt and income stream organised for a stress-free tax return with the SansDrama Web App — and get your whole first tax year completely free.

To claim it, email us at hello@sansdrama.com with your graduating year evidence (certificate / I.D.) and we'll send you your registration link.

the full performance

Screen-by-Screen Walkthrough

Here's the whole show, from the stage door to the final bow. We'll match each HMRC screen with a friendly note so you always know exactly what to tap next. Idiot-proof! Grab a cuppa and follow along.

act one

Your Backstage Pass

First we set up your Government Gateway account — your all-access pass to HMRC. Have your tea and biscuits at the ready!

Enter your email address

Every great performer needs a stage door. Pop in the email address you check most — this is how HMRC will reach you.

Step 1 of 12

act two

Taking To The Stage

You're in! Now we tell HMRC you're in business and register for Self Assessment.

Register for HMRC taxes

Choose 'I want to tell HMRC that I am in business and need to register for a new tax', then click Next.

Step 1 of 6

act three

The Spotlight Check

Before the encore, HMRC needs to know it's really you. This bit makes the whole thing less scary, promise.

We need to check your identity

Have your details to hand — name, date of birth, National Insurance number and postcode — then click Continue.

Step 1 of 11

act four

The Encore

Last act! Now you fill in the details about you and your business, then submit. Nearly there — you're on pointe.

Type of business

Choose 'Self-employed/Sole trader/Sole proprietor' and click Next.

Step 1 of 10

what's next

HMRC Will Be In Touch

Your UTR letter: Arrives by post within about 10 working days. Read it, keep it safe, include it on your invoices (nice touch but not a legal requirement) and use it whenever HMRC asks for it.

All set: Once it's through, you're officially registered for Self Assessment — ready to record your income, claim your expenses, and file your return with zero drama.

Registered? Take A Bow.

Now let SansDrama take the faff out of the rest. Your first tax year on the app is on us — because you've got performances to give.

Email us at hello@sansdrama.com with your graduating year evidence (certificate / I.D.) and we'll send you your registration link.

take the drama out of tax

Your tax, sorted.

The tax app built just for performers, creatives and side-hustlers — track your income, expenses and live tax bill in one tidy place, ready for your return.

Start your free trial

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