Travelling full time ... what do I do about tax?

Dan_Sin

I am travelling full-time at the moment and only pay a small amount of tax on my state and work pensions, which is taken automatically.   I was only in the UK for 2 months last year (March - May) and will not be in the UK again until June 2025 and then only for a month or two.   I am considering taking up some part-time work, either freelance or gig but am unsure about what to do about tax.  I don't mind having to pay it, but I really don't need the hassle of filling in a return or having to pay someone else to manage it for me.  Has anyone any advice for me? 

Thewire7

As you have mentioned that you are considering taking up some self employed work, if this income arises in the UK and exceeds £1,000 then you would need to complete a personal tax return even if this states that you are non UK tax resident during the tax year. 
UK tax is usually due on UK income regardless of whether an individual is UK resident or lives overseas. This can include income from wages, rental property, savings interest and pensions.  If an individual is tax resident in another country they will usually be taxed on income arising from overseas however the UK have agreed a double taxation agreement with many countries. I would recommend that you speak to a tax advisor to determine your residence status as determining this can become very complex.  Given that you are travelling, you may be considered temporary non-resident or could still be considered a UK tax resident, which is most likely to be the case.