Registerin as self employed

Devids1

Hi all,
I'm looking for some advice here on whether I should register as a self employed and when.

I work as a supervisor in a clothing shop in London with a 32 hours contract and I'm thinking about starting a small clothing repair business from home.

I managed to find my first client a few weeks ago. At the moment I'm only focusing on searching suppliers where I can get all the materials and tools I would need for making repairs. So I've not really started with the business yet.

I've read that I have until the 5th October to register with HMRC. My concern is that I'm not too sure if to register before or after that date? What would be the difference?
If I decide to do it after the 5th, would I be able to claim the expenses for anything I bought during the year 2020? Like sewing machine, threads and other stuff? 

Do you recommend looking for an accountant straight away before registering?

Thanks in advance. 
Devid 

Dazed_and_C0nfused

5th October 2021 for businesses starting after 5 April 2020.

There is no benefit in leaving it until the last minute but no immediate rush to do anything in the next couple of weeks.

You could get recommendations for potential accountants from friends and relatives.