Do I need to register to HMRC as a business, or pay tax?

forgotmyname

Only takes one unhappy customer to make that call for you.

RFW

I'd also be concerned about import duties if they aren't being paid. £20 extra per week is not a bad thing obviously but there are other overheads you may have missed. Shrinkage, either by lost post or damaged items could wipe that out quite quickly.

Contact one of the business start up groups, as a student you'll get loads of help and advice. Chances are they'll throw money at you too.

There's a pretty good link here with links to follow https://www.gov.uk/starting-up-a-business

theonlywayisup

Not directly on topic but you should consider a micro Paypal account if you are taking small sales, sub £10.

campdave

You are a business, and also need to be registered as a business and comply with distance selling regulations.

You should ring HMRC and get it sorted. If your profits are low, you should also ask for an exemption from NIC Class 2 contributions.

UserX

I also wonder if some form of insurance might be required. How does the OP ensure the goods from China are safe and fit for purpose? What would happen if one of the items (which of course we don't know what type of electronic items they are) over-heated and caused burns or something.

soolin

Also the person who you pay the £10 to needs to declare that as their income as well.

houseimprover

Bet you wished you hadn't asked now lol

RFW

UserX wrote: »

I also wonder if some form of insurance might be required. How does the OP ensure the goods from China are safe and fit for purpose? What would happen if one of the items (which of course we don't know what type of electronic items they are) over-heated and caused burns or something.

It depends what it is. I buy products from China, none of which need testing. It isn't just electronics that are imported. Even some audio items don't need safety testing.

Flyonthewall

belfast88 wrote: »

Should have, or must have? I'll do research into it, but what exactly is the difference?

As you're running a business it should be a business account. Some businesses get away with not having a business account and it means you don't get the free listings anymore. It doesn't really matter what the differences are - a business account is for businesses and that's what you have, a business.

Flyonthewall

belfast88 wrote: »

Make what call?.

The call to HMRC to tell them you're running a business. You need to inform them before someone else does.