Don’t Risk HMRC Penalties: Gig Workers and Freelancers Must Register by the Deadline

Tick‑Tock: Self‑Assessment Deadline Is Almost Here!

Hey, fellow side‑hustlers and brand‑new freelancers — the 5th of October is looming like a fly‑in‑the‑skies that only flies faster if you ignore it. If you’ve earned money from self‑employment in the 2023/24 tax year (1st April 2023 – 31st March 2024), you’ve got just a few days left to get your Self‑Assessment lined up with HMRC.

Why You Need to Register Now

Your gig landed you more than £1,000 in gross earnings. Congratulations! You’re officially a self‑employed superhero.
You earned under £1,000 but want to pay Class 2 National Insurance Contributions voluntarily. Why not protect your future State Pension?
Just became a partner in a business partnership? Yes, you’re in the loop.
You’ve collected any untaxed income above £2,500. Quit pretending it doesn’t exist.
Receiving Child Benefit but you and your partner made more than £50,000? Time to tackle the High Income Child Benefit Charge.

If you miss this registration deadline, HMRC isn’t shy about sending penalties your way – and that’s just the beginning. Neglecting to file means you’ll also face a late payment penalty for the tax bill due on 31st January 2025. Add interest on top, and you’ll be looking at a larger due amount. Trust me, that’s no fun.

Voice from the Front Line

CEO of Qdos, Seb Maley gets it: “HMRC issued a heads‑up a few months back. Some folks missed it, and the clock is ticking down. If you’re a self‑employed person in any shape, you must register by the 5th of October. Doing it quickly lets you get ahead of the 31st January payment and keeps paying the tax bill stress-free. Especially for newbies, early organization saves the day!”