diff --git a/README.md b/README.md index c719293..bce7d41 100644 --- a/README.md +++ b/README.md @@ -18,10 +18,15 @@ The post contains some affiliate links, they are denoted with `(aff.)`. I am not There is no easy way to tell when is the best time to do it. However, there are some preconditions and concerns that may impact your decision. +In an ideal scenario, you should finish your previous work on Friday and start on a Monday. +If you don't have a signed contract in hand and wish to quit work before applying for a contract, you need to build up savings before hand - please refer to the warchest section for more details on that. + +In an ideal scenario, you should get your first contract from a personal connection, perhaps a past employee and not rely too much on the broaded job market. + ### Financial stability -You should have savings to cover at least 4 months of your usual expenses. +You should have savings to cover at least 6 months of your usual expenses. You will spend some money establishing a company. It may take several weeks to find your first contract. Even if you're lucky enough to sign a contract immediately, you may need to wait a month to invoice your client and another month to get it paid. @@ -29,6 +34,11 @@ In short, most likely you'll not be able to withdraw any money from your busines Also, you may have unexpected expenses, because life. +As you start receiving the payment, you need to understand that this is you Ltd company money, not your private account. +You need to set aside money for Corporation Tax, VAT and expense and you can only withdraw from the rest and this will be taxable on both ends - as company profix (so subject to CT) and your profit - subject to 'normal' income taxation. + +Finally, as you carry on doing contract work you need to maintain the same level of savings set aside, referred to as a 'warchest'. +The most tax efficient way of doing this is by keeping the money in the company account. You can then choose what do with the money at a later date - typically this means you can keep paying yourself between contracts. ### Am I ready? @@ -168,6 +178,14 @@ Do it as soon as you incorporate your company. During the appointment they will scan some documents, ask a few generic questions and try to sell you extra services you most likely don't need. It took 2 days after the appointment to open my account. +### Paying yourself + +The most tax efficient (and absolutely legal) way of paying yourself in the UK (assuming no other sources of income) is as follows: +1. A base salary up to approximately 10000GBP (this amount is adjusted every year by HMRC) which is basically tax free. +2. Pay the rest in dividends. +3. Computer equipment, software, travel accommodation, can all be treated as expenses so while technically not income, you not have to use 1 and 2 for the things you need for work. +Your accountant can and should also advise you on that. + ### Expenses