First business project. Veterans get in here!

[Entrepadawan]

I am setting up a dog walking business in my area. It's the first business I have tried so I am a novice when it comes to getting a business off the ground. What I do have is a bank of clients and walkers willing to walk dogs over the next couple of weeks. I also have a website being made as I feel an online presence will give me some more momentum

I have not registered as a sole trader yet but have been told by various sources that this is probably my best option.
My main question is where do I go from here? In terms of the insurance I need, registering with company house and things like that. I need to know about the legalities of being self-employed. What do I need to do before I can legally start making money as a dog walking agency?

 

[Scalloway]

Don't register with Companies House if you want to be a sole trader!

You need to register with HMRC. You will need to keep records of your income and expenditure for your self assessment return.

https://www.gov.uk/log-in-file-self-assessment-tax-return/register-if-youre-self-employed

Insurance is a must. This is one company but others will be available.

http://www.petbusinessinsurance.co.uk/pet-business-insurance/dog-walking-insurance/