Legal structures: the basics

Sole trader

Being a sole trader is the simplest way to run a business: it does not involve paying any registration fees, keeping records and accounts is straightforward, and you get to keep all the profits. However, you are personally liable for any debts that your business runs up, which make this a risky option for businesses that need a lot of investment.

Set-up

• You need to register as self-employed - see the page in this guide on self-employment.

Management and raising finance

• You make all the decisions on how to manage your business.
• You raise money for the business out of your own assets and/or with loans from banks or other lenders.

Records and accounts

• You have to make an annual self assessment tax return to HM Revenue & Customs.
• You must also keep records showing your business income and expenses.

Profits

• Any profits go to you.

Tax and National Insurance

• As you are self-employed, your profits are taxed as income.
• You also need to pay fixed-rate Class 2 and 4 National Insurance contributions on your profits.

Liability

• As a sole trader, you are personally responsible for any debts run up by your business. This means your home or other assets may be at risk if your business runs into trouble.

Use our interactive tool to find out which legal structure is right for your business.

Subjects covered in this guide

• Introduction
• Self-employment
• Sole trader
• Partnership
• Limited liability partnership (LLP)
• Limited liability companies
• Franchises
• Social enterprises
• Overview of legal structures
• Here's how I chose the right legal structure for my business

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