Guides for UK tradespeople
Plain-English guidance on tax, invoicing, expenses and HMRC rules, written for sole traders rather than accountants.
How to Fill in the SA103F Form: Complete Guide for UK Sole Traders
Step-by-step guide to completing the SA103F self-employment supplement for your Self Assessment tax return. Covers every box, common mistakes, and how TradeTally can auto-fill it for you.
12 min read
TaxSelf Assessment Tax Return Guide for Tradespeople
Everything UK tradespeople need to know about Self Assessment tax returns. From registration and record-keeping to filing deadlines and payment, this guide walks you through the entire process.
14 min read
TaxUK Sole Trader Tax Deadlines 2025/26 and 2026/27
Never miss a tax deadline again. This guide covers every key date for UK sole traders including Self Assessment, payments on account, VAT, and Making Tax Digital deadlines for the 2025/26 and 2026/27 tax years.
8 min read
TaxNational Insurance for Sole Traders: Class 2 and Class 4 Explained
Understand how National Insurance works for UK sole traders. This guide covers Class 2 and Class 4 NI contributions, current rates and thresholds for 2025/26, and how they affect your state pension and benefits.
9 min read
HMRCMaking Tax Digital (MTD) for Sole Traders: What You Need to Know
A comprehensive guide to Making Tax Digital for Income Tax Self Assessment. Covers the rollout timeline, who is affected, what compatible software you need, and how to prepare your trade business.
10 min read
HMRCHow to Register as a Sole Trader with HMRC
Step-by-step guide to registering as a sole trader with HMRC. Covers when to register, the online registration process, getting your UTR number, and what to do after registration.
8 min read
HMRCCIS (Construction Industry Scheme) Explained for Subcontractors
Understand the Construction Industry Scheme as a subcontractor. Covers registration, deduction rates, monthly returns, how to reclaim CIS deductions, and what changes are coming to the scheme.
11 min read
HMRCHMRC Allowable Expenses for Tradespeople: Complete List
A definitive list of allowable business expenses for self-employed tradespeople in the UK. Covers materials, tools, vehicle costs, home office, clothing, training, and every other deduction you can claim.
13 min read
InvoicingHow to Invoice as a Sole Trader: Complete Guide
Learn what to include on a sole trader invoice, legal requirements, numbering systems, and professional invoicing tips. Covers both VAT and non-VAT registered tradespeople.
9 min read
InvoicingInvoice Payment Terms: Guide for UK Tradespeople
Understand common payment terms, your statutory rights to late payment interest, and how to set terms that protect your cash flow. Covers net 30, payment on completion, deposits, and more.
8 min read
InvoicingHow to Chase Unpaid Invoices as a Tradesperson
Practical guide to recovering unpaid invoices. Covers polite reminders, formal demand letters, statutory interest, small claims court, and when to use a debt collection agency.
10 min read
InvoicingVAT Registration Threshold: When Should Tradespeople Register?
Understand the current VAT threshold, when registration becomes mandatory, the pros and cons of voluntary registration, and which VAT scheme works best for sole trader tradespeople.
10 min read
ExpensesReceipt Keeping for Sole Traders: HMRC Requirements
A practical guide to keeping receipts as a UK sole trader, including HMRC requirements, retention periods, digital records, and lost receipts.
8 min read
ExpensesHMRC Mileage Allowance for Sole Traders: Rates and Rules
Complete guide to claiming the HMRC mileage allowance as a self-employed tradesperson. Covers current rates, what counts as a business journey, record-keeping requirements, and mileage vs actual costs.
8 min read
ExpensesClaiming Tools and Equipment as Business Expenses
How to claim the cost of tools, equipment, and machinery against your tax bill. Covers the Annual Investment Allowance, capital allowances, and the difference between revenue and capital expenses for tradespeople.
9 min read
BusinessHow to Price Your Trade Services: A Guide for Sole Traders
Learn how to set profitable prices for your trade services. Covers hourly vs fixed pricing, calculating your true costs, quoting for jobs, and adjusting prices without losing customers.
10 min read
BusinessSole Trader vs Limited Company: Which Is Right for Tradespeople?
Compare the pros and cons of operating as a sole trader versus a limited company. Covers tax differences, liability, admin burden, and when it makes sense for tradespeople to incorporate.
11 min read
BusinessEssential Insurance for UK Tradespeople: What You Need
A comprehensive guide to insurance for self-employed tradespeople. Covers public liability, professional indemnity, tool cover, van insurance, and employer's liability. Know what is legally required and what is strongly recommended.
10 min read