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United Kingdom Tax Requirements

UTR and UK tax requirements for dancers working through Flow Ballee

Tax Requirements for the United Kingdom

As a self-employed dancer in the UK, you'll need to provide your Unique Taxpayer Reference (UTR) for payment processing and tax compliance.

Unique Taxpayer Reference (UTR)

What is a UTR?

The UTR is a 10-digit number issued by HMRC when you register for Self Assessment. It's your personal tax reference number.

Format

  • Format: 10 digits
  • Example: 1234567890
  • Where to find it: On letters from HMRC, your tax return, or your Personal Tax Account

How to Get a UTR

If you don't have a UTR, you need to register for Self Assessment:

Step 1: Register Online

  1. Go to gov.uk/register-for-self-assessment
  2. Choose "self-employed" as your registration type
  3. Complete the online form

Step 2: Wait for Your UTR

  • HMRC will send your UTR by post
  • This usually takes 10 working days (or 21 days if you're abroad)

Step 3: Set Up Your Personal Tax Account

  1. Go to gov.uk/personal-tax-account
  2. Sign in or create a Government Gateway account
  3. Your UTR will be visible in your account

VAT Registration

Do I Need to Register for VAT?

You must register for VAT if:

  • Your VAT taxable turnover exceeds 90,000 GBP in a 12-month period (2024/25 threshold)
  • You expect it to exceed this threshold in the next 30 days

VAT Number Format

  • Format: GB + 9 digits
  • Example: GB123456789

Most dancers working through Flow Ballee are below the VAT threshold and don't need to register.

National Insurance

As a self-employed person, you'll also pay Class 2 and Class 4 National Insurance. This is handled through your Self Assessment tax return.

Bank Account for Payments

UK payments are made via:

  • Account Number: 8 digits
  • Sort Code: 6 digits (XX-XX-XX format)

Make sure the bank account is in your name to receive payments.

Important Deadlines

DeadlineDescription
5 OctoberRegister for Self Assessment if newly self-employed
31 OctoberPaper tax return deadline
31 JanuaryOnline tax return deadline
31 JanuaryPay tax owed for previous tax year
31 JulyPay second payment on account (if applicable)

Useful Resources

Need Help?

If you're unsure about your tax obligations, consider:

  • Contacting HMRC directly: 0300 200 3310
  • Consulting with an accountant who specialises in self-employment
  • Using tax software designed for freelancers