Self Employment Advice

Davidc18

Hi All,

I am 24 and living with my parents, not the perfect situation. I am trying to sort myself out so that I can get a place of my own but currently cant afford it.

I work for a charity part time, which is the perfect job it just doesn't pay greatly. On the side of this I am also studying part time for a degree, which I am paying for myself (Previously studied at another university failed my dissertation and didn't graduate so don't think I am allowed any funding).

I am a bit of a techie nerd and know how to produce websites and fix computers and thought this might be a way to help boost my income a little.

However, I have know idea how to go about becoming self employed! Can anyone give me any advice, or guidence that has been in a similar situation?

Also if anyone has any other advice that they think could help please feel free to post! Have been worrying over my finances for so long now I just want to be able to relax a little!

Thank you to everyone in advance, and very sorry for waffling on a bit!!

BoGoF

Perhaps HMRC's site is a good start

http://www.hmrc.gov.uk/selfemployed/tmastarting-up-in-business.shtml

They do workshops which might be good for you.

fjrgal62

Do you claim jobseekers allowance and declare the part time voluntary work and part time course study, Davidc?

If you do claim jobseekers and have been claiming for it and/or any other qualifying, linking benefits for at least 6 months without a break in your claim, you should be eligible for New Enterprise Allowance - a benefit that helps bridge the gap between JSA and self-employment. Can't post a link cos I'm a newbie on the forum, but just google +DirectGov+New Enterprise Allowance for details of what you could get if you're eligible.

If you haven't been claiming JSA, google businesseye.org - they've got a helpline and a website, and specialise in helping people go self-employed.

Good luck!

Davidc18

I am a payed member of staff at the charity so have not been claiming JSA.

Thanks for the advice on the workshops BoGoF! Definitely going to look into those!

Tazz214

Business link is also another website for you to have a look at, they also have advisers that can meet with you to advise what your next steps should be. They also have access to a great number of resources and may be able to put you in touch with someone to discuss business start up grants. The website is full of useful information and I have recommended a number of my customers to utilise the services business link have to offer.
Also, do you live near a branch of Connexions, they are not just aimed at school leavers, they have Next Step advisors aimed specifically at your age group, they may also be able to help but personally I would make business link your first port of call, they can help with business start up but will also be able to support you through the first year of business. Good Luck.