Legal Issues

Stay compliant with regulations that affect home-based businesses. Topics include company obligations, insurance requirements, health and safety rules, tax legislation and VAT registration.

Health and Safety in the Home Office

Health and safety laws still apply when you work from home, and your employer may inspect your space or ask you to assess risks.

Insurance: Do I Need it?

Self-employed people face unique financial risks if illness strikes, so understanding your insurance options is crucial.

Obligations in Running Your Company

Running your own business means handling tax returns, national insurance, and filing requirements that depend on your company structure.

Questionnaire: Do You Know the Home Working Regulations?

Test your knowledge of home working regulations with this quick questionnaire covering health and safety, risk assessments, and workplace rules.

Questionnaire: Health and Safety Rules for the Home Worker

Check if your home office meets health and safety laws with this seven-question questionnaire for self-employed workers.

Self Employed National Insurance

Self-employed people must pay Class 2 and possibly Class 4 National Insurance contributions, with registration required within 3 months of starting work.

Self Employment Tax Legislation: IR35

IR35 tax rules can reclassify self-employed contractors as employees, potentially costing you back taxes and penalties.

VAT for the Self-Employed

Self-employed workers need to register for VAT once their turnover hits the threshold, or use the Flat Rate scheme if eligible.

Working with Your Spouse

Think carefully about the financial and emotional risks before starting a business with your spouse.