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Discover how to kickstart your freelance career with our comprehensive guide. From setup to success, we've got you covered! How to Set Up a Freelancer Business in 2024 15 min read Beginner's Guide, Company Formations Table of Contents Categories Which freelance niche is right for you Legal and financial considerations Financial Considerations Understand the 'bottom line' What equipment will you need? Do you need business insurance Identifying your branding and positioning Setting rates and managing finances Finding and retaining clients Tips for managing time and workflow Start your business Beginner's Guide Business Trends Company Formations Start-Up Finance Virtual Office Working for yourself sounds like a dream, right? You can wave goodbye to the standard 9-5 and any toxic work culture, by becoming a freelancer. Freelancing has become increasingly popular across the UK, with 13.6% of people aged 16 and over doing at least some freelancing. This rise in popularity has empowered individuals to take charge of their careers with flexibility and autonomy, across a broad range of industries. You may have been weighing up going freelance for a while now but are hesitant to take the plunge. Or maybe you’re ready to commit to freelancing and have handed in your notice at your current employer, but have some questions on where to start. If you’re wondering how to set up freelance and begin your journey to independent work, we’re here to help. We’ve put together this in-depth guide on how to start freelancing, to answer any questions you may have on how to kickstart your new venture. If you consider yourself as a literal beginner, our guide on how to become a freelancer with no experience lists down all the tips you need to know for expert guidance. With our tips and tricks, you’ll know how to build a freelance business and the steps you should take to turn your passion into profit. Which freelance niche is right for you? If you’re asking ‘How can I start freelancing?’ the first step is deciding which industry or niche to operate in. Perhaps you’re a skilled copywriter looking to share your craft with the world, or a talented video editor looking to tell stories through video. To decide which area you’re looking to pursue as a freelancer, you’ll need to identify your skills and expertise, as well as understand the market you plan to enter. Here are some of the ways you can identify the right freelance niche for you: Assess your interests and skills: If you’re looking to start freelancing and break free from working for an employer, you’ll want to make sure you’ll enjoy the work you’ll be doing. Choose a niche that aligns with your interests and values, as you'll be more likely to succeed and find fulfilment in your work. Start by making a list of your key skills, expertise and motivations. Perhaps you’re a great communicator, a natural wordsmith or a born creative. Reflect on your professional background and the knowledge you have that you could share with potential clients. Evaluate market demand: Market demand is crucial for profitability. Make sure there’s a need for your service by looking at industry trends and any pain points that your service could help to solve. Consider factors such as market growth and competition in your chosen industry or local area. Consider your USP: What will make your freelance business stand out against competitors? Your unique selling point is what will set you apart from other freelancers and encourage potential clients to choose your expertise over others. Try things out: If you’re torn between different niches, why not test the waters? You could take on several smaller projects or freelance gigs to help you decide which you prefer. This will not only give you experience, but you may also develop connections which you can contact again once you’ve made your decision. Open to change: Remember, your freelance niche doesn’t have to be set in stone. As your freelance business develops, you may discover new interests or opportunities that lead you to change your service or expand to different niches. Try to stay flexible and be open to new possibilities that come your way throughout your freelance journey. If you’re searching for how to start freelancing, chances are you already work in a certain industry or profession that you’re looking to freelance in. But if you’re stuck for a business idea, take a look at our guide to choosing a business idea for inspiration. Steps to starting a freelance business So, you have your business idea and the motivation behind you, but how do you go about starting your freelance business? Below, we’ve put together a list of how to start freelancing, step-by-step, so you can tick off each task as you go. Understand the legal and financial considerations Getting your head around the legal and financial obligations of your freelance business can be daunting, but it doesn’t need to leave you feeling overwhelmed. If you’re searching for how to register a freelance business, the first step is choosing a legal structure. As a freelancer, you can choose to operate as a sole trader or as a limited company. One of the biggest differences between being a sole trader and a limited company is limited liability . As a limited company, you gain limited liability which means your personal assets are protected should your business face financial hardship. This is because limited companies are treated as separate legal entities from the business owner, whereas as a sole trader, you’re personally liable for any business debts. If you decide to set your freelance business up as a limited company, you’ll need to officially register your business with Companies House. You can choose to register your business yourself for a £50 fee, or you may prefer to use a company formation agent like SUAZ to take care of the hard work for you. Here at SUAZ, we cover the cost of your business registration, meaning forming your limited company won’t cost you a penny. What’s more, you’ll gain our support and expertise should you need it, every step of the way. Financial considerations As a freelancer, it’s vital that you understand what tax applies to your business, so you aren’t left caught out further down the line. Here are some key financial considerations to keep in mind: Business tax: Depending on the legal structure of your business, you’ll be liable to pay certain types of business tax. For example, as a limited company you’re legally required to pay Corporation Tax. National Insurance: You’ll pay National Insurance (NI) contributions on your salary, should you earn more than £12,570 a year. VAT: If your VAT-taxable turnover is more than £85,000, you’ll need to register for VAT. VAT is charged on ‘taxable suppliers’ such as goods and services and selling your business assets. For more information on the tax you may be liable to pay, check out BSC’s guide on small business tax . You may choose to hire an accountant to keep your business finances in check. Here at SUAZ, we can help match you with a vetted and reliable accountancy supplier , through our BSC platform. Understand the ‘bottom line’ Your ‘bottom line’ is the minimum amount of money you need to get by each month. Calculate how much money you need to cover your bills and day-to-day living costs. From there, you’ll know your target amount and can work out what you need to do to achieve it. As a freelancer, you may be waiting around to receive payments from clients at times, so it’s important to check in with yourself financially on a regular basis. How much money do you have due to come in for recent or upcoming work? Make sure you have enough work lined up to achieve your bottom line. What equipment will you need? As a freelancer, the equipment you’ll need to carry out your work will depend on the nature of your business and the industry you operate in. Generally speaking, you may need the following equipment: A reliable computer: Choose a computer or laptop that fits your budget and responsibilities. For example, if you’re a graphic designer make sure you have a high-performance computer that can process large files. Software: Depending on the industry you work in, you may need to invest in specific software to deliver the best service. Your workspace: Decide where you’ll work from and how you’ll make your workspace somewhere you want to work from. If you work from home, make sure you have an assigned workspace so you can separate your work from your home life. Looking to maintain your privacy and boost your professional image? A virtual office address may be the solution, allowing you to work from anywhere with a business address to your name to boost your professionalism. Communication tools: Make sure you have the right tools to hand to keep in touch with potential clients, from messaging apps like Skype or Slack, to video conferencing tools like Microsoft Teams and Zoom. Do you need business insurance? It’s easy to assume that business insurance doesn’t apply to you as a freelancer, but that isn’t the case. While you won’t need employer’s liability insurance as a freelancer as you won’t have employees, you may choose to take out other types of business insurance to protect you and your reputation should the worst happen. For example, Professional Indemnity Insurance can protect you if you make a mistake or your client suffers (or claims to have suffered) financial loss because of your services. Your policy will then cover any legal or compensation costs should your client make a claim. Similarly, Public Liability Insurance is designed to protect you should a member of the public make a claim against you. Without it, you could face significant legal fees and compensation costs that could threaten your financial stability. When it comes to business insurance, it’s always better to be safe than sorry. Like all types of insurance, the hope is you’ll never need to actually use it, but it’s there to offer peace of mind should disaster strike and you need a helping hand. Our partner, Business Support Club, can match you with reputable and reliable business insurance providers , giving you the reassurance that your business and reputation are protected. 2. Identifying your branding and positioning Next, you’ll want to prioritise your branding and positioning as a freelancer. Branding is a crucial element of freelancing, as it helps you to establish a distinctive identity, especially in a competitive market. Having a well-established brand to your name can inform potential clients why they should choose you over your competitors. Your branding can also instil confidence in your potential clients, letting them know you’re serious about what you do and are a professional in your industry. To begin with, you’ll need to define your target market and brand values. What sets you apart from others? What values do you want your brand to represent? Perhaps you consider yourself a flexible freelancer, or you pride yourself on your creativity. Make sure your strengths and USPs are at the forefront of your branding. From there, you can consider the visual representation of your brand such as your business logo and website to reflect your brand identity. By prioritising the branding of your freelance business, you’re one step closer to attracting and retaining the right clients and securing the profits you deserve. 3. Setting rates and managing finances When it comes to setting your freelance rates, getting the balance right is key. You’ll want to make sure you’re being paid enough for your time and expertise, while remaining competitive in your industry. To gauge how much other freelancers charge for your services, research average rates for your specific skill set and services. Make sure you factor in your geographic location too, as how much you can charge may vary depending on where you live. Similarly, you should factor your level of experience into your rates - after all, your hard work and dedication should be rewarded. The more experience you gain, the more you can justify higher rates to reap the rewards of your hard work. Other considerations include your monthly expenses and taxes. Put together a list of your monthly expenses, as well as the costs you incur as a freelancer such as fees for software. You’ll want to make sure you can cover your monthly expenses and enjoy life too! It’s important to remember that as a freelancer, your taxes aren’t automatically deducted from your salary each month. Instead, you’re responsible for reporting your income and ensuring you pay the right amount of tax. If you’re registered as a sole trader, for example, you’ll need to submit an annual Self Assessment tax return on your earnings. It’s important to factor this amount in when deciding how much to charge potential clients. A clear and professional invoice makes sure your client has all the information they need to pay you efficiently and accurately. Our guide to freelance invoicing explains how to format your invoices and what to include, so you get paid as quickly as possible. 4. Finding and retaining clients Deciding to start a freelance business is one thing, but finding potential clients is a whole other ball game. Building strong client relationships is key to a thriving freelance business and maintaining a stable income. Here are some tips to find and retain clients for the long haul. Networking: Make the most of networking events and participate in communities and online forums in your industry. Networking allows you to build relationships with potential clients, as well as other freelancers you can learn from. Online platforms: There are numerous platforms out there to advertise your services, such as Upwork and Fiverr. Take the time to optimise your profile, to showcase your skills and expertise. Your portfolio and website: Make sure your website and portfolio is up to date and showcases your passion and skills. Also consider optimising your website for SEO by including keywords related to your industry, so potential clients can find you when searching online. Social media: Shout about your freelance business across your social media platforms and showcase your hard work to potential clients. Be sure to engage with relevant hashtags to increase your visibility. When it comes to retaining your clients, quality and consistency are vital. Make sure you’re consistently delivering high-quality work on time, to encourage repeat business and referrals. By consistently meeting deadlines and providing top customer service, you’ll build trust and reliability with your clients, ensuring a steady stream of work and long-term success as a freelancer. Tips for managing time and workflow As a freelancer, it can be all too easy to become absorbed in your work and struggle to maintain a healthy work-life balance. Setting yourself boundaries is key to helping you manage your time and increase your productivity. Below are some time management techniques you can use to help manage your time and prioritise your tasks as a freelancer. For more in-depth strategies on maximising productivity and minimising stress, be sure to check out our guide on how to track and manage freelance work . Time blocking: Try to allocate specific amounts of time for different tasks or projects throughout your day. Not only does this hold you accountable to get things done, it also prevents you from trying to juggle several tasks at once, increasing productivity. Set SMART goals: SMART goals are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant and Time-bound. Breaking larger goals into smaller, more manageable tasks can make them feel achievable and easier to accomplish. This method also helps you to track your progress. Limit distractions: Try to minimise distractions while working by ensuring you work in a dedicated workspace - particularly if you’re working from home. You can try various strategies to help with this, such as turning your phone on flight mode when you’re focusing, turning off notifications and using website blockers to avoid procrastination. Project management software: There are several tools out there to help you manage your workload, such as Asana and Trello. Project management software can help you visualise your workflow, create to-do lists, collaborate with clients and track your time. Start your freelance business today with SUAZ We hope our guide has answered any questions you had around how to start freelancing, and left you inspired to take the leap towards entrepreneurship. Starting your own business can feel daunting, and with so many hoops to jump through, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. But it doesn’t need to be that way. Forming your business with SUAZ can eliminate any anxieties you may have, by having a support system to guide you every step of the way. Freelancing offers a lifestyle you won’t find anywhere else, allowing you to work in a way that serves you, with freedom and passion at your fingertips. So, what are you waiting for? Form your freelance business today and watch the magic happen. Recommended Readings

If you're a non-UK citizen looking to start a business in the UK, you may have some questions and considerations as to whether it's possible. Read more here. Starting a Business in the UK as a Foreigner 8 min read Company Formations Table of Contents Categories What should you know before starting a business in the UK? The benefits of starting a business in the UK as a non-UK national Are there any limitations a foreign national must overcome when starting a business in the UK? Does a foreign national need a visa to start a business in the UK? Innovator Founder Visa How do taxes work? How to register a business as a non-UK national Get your business up and running in no time Beginner's Guide Business Trends Company Formations Start-Up Finance Virtual Office Starting your own business really is an adventure like no other, and there’s no better place to do it than the UK. With its vibrant economy, cultural diversity and booming business scene, the UK is an entrepreneur’s dream. Between 2021 and 2022, over 750,000 startups were formed in the UK - so you’re certainly making the right choice. While starting a business in the UK as a foreigner may sound complicated, it doesn’t need to be. Non-resident company formation is straightforward when you know how. With some patience, hard work and determination, your business will be calling the UK home in no time. We’ve put together a complete guide to non-resident company formation, so the process feels as simple as possible. What should you know before starting a business in the UK? Starting a business in the UK as a foreigner can be life-changing, but it’s important to be prepared. Depending on your nationality, you may need a visa to enter the UK, if you’re from any of these government-listed countries . As long as you have the right to work and live in the UK, you can begin to make your business dream come to life. Before you get started, you’ll need to consider the following: Legal structure: You’ll need to decide the appropriate legal structure for your business. You may choose to operate as a sole trader, which means you’re self-employed. As a sole trader, you’re solely responsible for running your business which includes being responsible for paying income tax and National Insurance. Alternatively, you may prefer to start a limited company. As a limited company, you and your business are treated as two separate entities, meaning the business itself is responsible for its liabilities, known as limited liability protection . Another option is operating as a partnership, which is where several individuals sign a partnership agreement to decide how the business is shared between them. In a partnership, all partners are responsible for the business’ debts and finances. Visa: As mentioned above, make sure you have the right visa and work permits to start a business in the UK. Taxation: Read up on the UK’s tax laws for businesses. Familiarise yourself with how corporation tax works, for example, which is calculated based on your company’s profit each year. The rate of corporation tax as of April 2023 is currently 25%. Employment laws: Looking to hire some employees to help you get your business off the ground? Make sure you understand how the UK’s employment laws work, such as working hours, minimum wage, holiday pay and redundancy. The benefits of starting a business in the UK as a non-UK national If you’re looking to start a business in a globally-connected country with a buzzing business scene, there’s no better choice than the UK. Here are just some of the benefits of starting your own business in the UK: Support when you need it: Starting your own business can feel overwhelming - but you’re certainly not on your own. There are several useful resources available across the web, including the UK Government website which details everything you’ll need to set up your business. Looking to form a limited company ? A company formation agent like SUAZ can take care of the complicated stuff for you, so you’ll be up and running in no time. We’re also there whenever you need us - if you’re worried about anything or need some advice, we’re a phone call away. Thriving economy: With a population of over 67 million, the UK isn’t short of potential customers! In 2022, the British economy’s gross domestic product was 2.23 trillion pounds, making it the fifth-largest global economy . This enables new businesses to thrive, with funding and investment opportunities readily available. There’s even a government-backed Start Up Loan to help you get your business off the ground. Skilled workers: By putting down roots in the UK, you’ll gain access to skilled and specialised workers who will put the work in to make your business a success. Financial hub: London is home to the Bank of England and the London Stock Exchange (LSE), and is the world’s second-largest financial centre . It's known for its thriving business environment and reputation, so if you’re looking to make your mark in the business world, there’s no better place. Are there any limitations a foreign national must overcome when starting a business in the UK? There’s no doubt that setting up your business in the UK will be an adventure. Becoming an entrepreneur can be life-changing, but there are obstacles you may face - particularly if you’re looking to operate in the UK as a foreign national. While you can register a business in the UK regardless of the passport you hold, you will require a physical UK address. This is where your official correspondence and business mail will be sent to. If you’re not planning on renting a physical office in the UK, a virtual office may be the solution you’re looking for. A virtual office provides your business with an official address, without you needing to rent a physical space. This can save you a significant amount of money, help you get your business’ name on the map, and help you establish your professional image. As a limited company, you can choose to use a virtual office address when registering with Companies House - ideal if you don’t have a residential address in the UK. Does a foreign national need a visa to start a business in the UK? While you can start a business in the UK without a visa, you won’t be able to travel to and work under your company name in the UK without one. Having a business in the UK doesn’t give you the right to physically work there - so make sure you look into what visa you may need beforehand. Not sure if you need a visa to start your business? The government’s website has a helpful tool to help you work out whether you’ll need a visa or not . Innovator Founder Visa The Innovator Founder visa, formerly known as Innovator visa, is for those looking to set up and run an innovative business in the UK. This means your business must offer something different from anything else on the market. You’ll need to meet various eligibility requirements outlined on the government’s website. You can apply for the visa online but you’ll need to provide several documents to support your application, so make sure you leave plenty of time to do this. When applying from outside of the UK, as mentioned you’ll need to prove your identity. How you go about this will depend on the passport you have. You’ll either need to use your fingerprints and have your photograph taken at a visa application centre, or use the ‘UK Immigration: ID check’ app to scan your identity document. How do taxes work? Choosing to set up your business in the UK and deciding to live here as well means you'll need to pay taxes. You may need to pay the following, depending on your circumstances: Corporation Tax: Paid by limited companies only, Corporation Tax is calculated as a percentage of your business’ profits or taxable income. It’s self-assessed, so you’ll need to work out how much Corporation Tax you owe and file a tax return with HMRC, along with your payment which is due nine months after the end of the business’ accounting period or year end. Currently, Corporation Tax is 25% as of April 2023. Value Added Tax (VAT): If you’re selling products or services, you may need to charge VAT. Generally speaking, VAT is set at 20% of the price. You can register your business for VAT whenever you like, but you must legally register when your turnover exceeds £85,000. National Insurance: If you’re looking to hire some employees to help you on your way to success, you must pay National Insurance contributions. This is paid directly to HMRC when you pay your staff. As a director of a limited company, you’re treated as an employee and will need to pay National Insurance on your annual income if it’s over £12,570. How to register a business as a non-UK national The company registration process for non-UK residents is no different to those living in the UK. But while you don’t need to live in the UK to register a company there, you are required to have a UK address. Here’s how to register your business as a non-UK national: Address: Make sure you have a physical UK address. This is the address that will be shown on the public register, and all correspondence from Companies House will be sent to this address. If you’re looking to save yourself the cost of renting a physical office space, you could opt for a virtual office address. Here at SUAZ, our virtual office service gives you a business address right in the heart of Manchester to help get your name on the map and give your business image a boost. Decide on a name: You’ll need to choose a company name that is compliant and not already taken - you can check the availability of your business’ name on our homepage. Register with Companies House: To officially form your company, you’ll need to register with Companies House. You can choose to do this yourself for a £50 registration fee, or, to alleviate some stress, you can get us to take care of things for you. Our professional company formation service will register your company with Companies House on your behalf for free, and your company will be formed within a maximum of 48 hours. It really is that simple. Get your business up and running in no time Starting a business can feel both daunting and exciting all at once - especially when you’re a non-UK national. But you don’t need to go through the process alone. If you’re starting a business in the UK as a foreigner, our company formation service could be just what you need to make things that bit easier to manage. We’ll handle the tricky stuff so all that’s left for you to focus on is your new adventure. Apply to form your company today and make your dreams a reality. Recommended Readings How Long Does It Take to Set Up a Limited Company? Read More What is a Business Plan and How Do You Write One? Read More What is Limited Liability in a Business? Read More

Always be available for your customers. CircleLoop ensures you never miss a call with features like call forwarding, voicemail & professional auto-attendants. < Back Circle Loop Who are they? The smarter phone system for ambitious businesses Easy to use, with inclusive features and pay-as-you-grow pricing, CircleLoop helps businesses communicate better. Set up is simple on the devices you already have, from £5 per month. A business phone system, but not as you know it. A system that runs in simple cloud-based apps rather than being reliant on cables, clunky hardware and complicated SIP connections. A system that is completely self-service and you can set it up and manage without the need for technical knowledge. CircleLoop enables you to always be there for your customers. You’ll always present a professional image, never miss a call and enhance all your business relationships. All of this is achieved with cost-effective and flexible communications you can rely on. Key Points No fixed-term contracts Modern Cloud Telecoms A flexible and reliable modern-day phone solution A system that is completely self-service and you can set it up and manage without the need for technical knowledge. Previous Available Services Desktop and Mobile Apps Instant Number set-up Deskphone syncing Number Porting Conference Calls Call Recording Call Forwarding and Transfer Out of Hours Routing Next

Discover how to launch a successful dog accessory business in 2024. Expert tips and strategies for entrepreneurs. Start your journey with Start Up A-Z. Starting a Dog Accessory & Clothing Business in 2024 12 min read Beginner's Guide Table of Contents Categories Is the pet accessory industry really for you? Steps to Start a Dog Accessory Business 1. Conduct market research and analysis How big is the dog clothing industry? 2. Create a solid business plan 3. Understanding your finances How much does it cost to start a dog clothing business? 4. Selecting and developing your products 5. Begin planning your brand 6. Set up your sales channels 7. Curate a marketing strategy 8. Ensure you’ve considered legal and regulatory guidance Start your dog accessory business with Start Up A-Z Beginner's Guide Business Trends Company Formations Start-Up Finance Virtual Office There’s no denying that a lot of pet owners would be willing to spend a fortune for their four-legged, furry friends. In fact, the pet industry in the UK is experiencing remarkable growth, with pet owners spending approximately £8 billion annually on their beloved companions. This huge spending just shows how much we care about our pets – they're family. With around 13.5 million dogs in the UK and a growing trend towards premium pet products , there surely is a huge market for dog accessories and clothing. And as more and more people want the best for their pets, it seems like a thriving industry to be a part of. Wondering how to start a dog accessory business in the UK? In this blog, we’ll explore essential topics such as conducting market research, developing high-quality products, creating a brand, and implementing successful marketing tactics. When done right, launching a dog accessories business isn’t just profitable but also fulfilling as you cater to the needs of pet lovers eager to pamper their furry friends. Is the pet accessory industry really for you? Starting a pet accessory business can be super rewarding, especially if you’re a fur parent at best. You can create stylish products that dog owners love, and you could make a good living doing it. But like any business, building a thriving enterprise takes a lot of hard work - you'll need to find reliable suppliers, compete with big brands, and keep up with the latest trends. If you're passionate about pets and ready to take on a challenge, this business could be the perfect fit for you. Steps to start a dog accessory business Conduct market research and analysis To successfully navigate this market, it’s important to initially research your target audience and analyse their behaviour. Identify who your ideal customers are by looking into factors such as age, income level, and lifestyle choices as these are likely to affect what they’re looking for in a dog store. Tools like surveys and focus groups can also provide you with valuable insights into what pet owners prioritise when purchasing accessories and clothing. If you’re really serious, you might also consider using helpful resources and tools. Industry reports from sources like Statista can give you comprehensive data on market size and growth trends. Competitor analysis tools such as SEMrush or SimilarWeb can help you understand how other pet brands are performing online, while consumer survey platforms like SurveyMonkey or Google Forms can gather direct feedback from your potential customers. By understanding the current market, you’re set to make business decisions that align with market demands and consumer preferences, ultimately positioning your dog accessory business for success in this thriving industry. How big is the dog clothing industry? The dog clothing industry is part of a rapidly growing pet clothing market in the world. On average, Brits spend nearly £200 a year on clothes for their pets ! Globally, the industry was valued at approximately 6 billion dollars in 2023 , and is expected to grow to 9 billion by 2031. Pet owners fondly love to dress their furry companions up for fun, keep them warm, or even just show off their unique style. From cosy sweaters to fancy costumes, UK dog owners are embracing the trend and splashing out on adorable outfits for their furry friends. Create a solid business plan Next, you’ll need a business plan to guide your whole venture. It’s like a roadmap to help you navigate the ins and outs of your business journey and can help you figure out what you want to do, how you’ll do it and why it’s a good idea, giving you solid plans for the future. Your business plan is also crucial for securing funding from investors or lenders to show your business is on its road to success.If you’re new to creating one, we’ve created a guide on how to write a business plan you can easily follow. Understanding your finances While thinking about the money side of things may leave you feeling overwhelmed, the sooner you plan and understand your finances, the better position your business will be in. You’ll need to consider capital and operating costs such as company formation, legal fees, licences and permits, rent, website and domain, marketing and branding, inventory, packaging, employee salaries, and insurance, to name a few. Startup A-Z offers free company formation for starting your business, so you have one less thing to pay for.. According to pet accessories and business founders, it may cause you between USD 1,000 to USD 150,000 , an average of USD 15,000, as starting costs for your pet accessory business. That’s approximately £11,500 to start. While this might not be cheap, these costs can vary widely depending on the scale of your business and its location. How much does it cost to start a dog clothing business? Starterstory’s data from actual dog clothing businesses costs from USD 500 to USD 27,000 , or approximately £385 to £20,800. While this may still vary depending on your market, this data can give you an estimate of the costs to start. Selecting and developing your products Your core offerings can make or break your business. Consider being innovative, unique and trendy so fur parents can rave about your business. You might offer hypoallergenic and natural products or eco-friendly products for conscious individuals, for example. Here’s a list of products you could consider for your new business: Collars and leashes: Standard collars, harnesses, reflective collars, training leashes, retractable leashes. Toys: Chew toys, interactive toys, plush toys, fetch toys. Grooming supplies: Brushes, shampoos, nail clippers, grooming gloves. Apparel: Jackets, sweaters, costumes, raincoats. Feeding accessories: Elevated feeders, spill-proof bowls, travel bowls. Travel accessories: Car seat covers, travel crates, portable water bottles. If you’re planning to import products from other countries, there are EU regulations and standards for pet toys and accessories to consider too. Begin planning your brand If you want to make your dog accessory or clothing stand out in a saturated market, you’ll need to create a brand. It helps you be remembered in a crowded market, build trust with your customers, and increase the perceived value of your products. A strong brand involves creating a unique identity, telling a compelling story, and designing a memorable logo. By understanding your target audience, using social media effectively, and learning from successful brands, you can establish a strong brand presence that resonates with pet owners and drives business growth. Mungo & Maud , a pet and accessory store based in London, is known for stylish dog accessories, high-quality materials and chic designs that appeal to fashion-conscious pet owners. Their branding emphasises luxury and sophistication. And just like Mungo & Maud, you can focus on connecting emotionally with customers while maintaining consistency across all branding elements, to build loyalty and recognition over time. Set up your sales channels Selling pet stuff requires a multi-pronged approach. Many entrepreneurs choose to start online businesses due to generally lower startup and overhead costs. For more information, check out our detailed guide on how to start an online business in 2025 that covers everything you need to know about launching your business online. E-commerce platforms like your own website, Amazon, eBay, and Etsy offer diverse avenues to reach pet owners. If you have the budget, you might also explore brick-and-mortar stores, consignment agreements, and pop-up shops for in-person sales. When setting up your online store, it’s nice to choose a user-friendly platform like Shopify, Wix, or WooCommerce, and prioritise a mobile-friendly design. Make sure that you use high-quality images and competitive pricing for your product listings. You might also consider shipping strategies, whether local or international, as you might be including free shipping thresholds and international shipping options. As fur parents are increasingly mindful of the products they buy for their pets, it’s also important to prioritise customer service. Ensure prompt responses, clear policies, and loyalty programs when building your channels online. Curate a marketing strategy To get the word out about your dog accessory business, you can use a variety of marketing strategies. Social media is a great way to show off your products and connect with pet owners. Teddy Maximus, known for its luxury pet accessories, uses a high-quality gallery with dogs in their carriers to appeal to its customer base. Photo: Instagram / @teddy_maximus Partnering with pet influencers can also help you reach a wider audience, just like Carter chow chow and its owner Carl , flaunting their cute matching fits on their social media platforms. Photo: Instagram / @carterchowchow Posting high-quality photos and videos can definitely help you stand out, and hosting events like pop-up shops or community gatherings can be a fun way to connect with people. You can also encourage your customers to share photos of their pets using your products. Ensure you’ve considered legal and regulatory guidance Starting a dog accessory business in the UK also involves some legal and regulatory hoops to jump through. You'll need to register your business, pay taxes, and make sure your products are safe. This includes labelling them correctly and testing them to meet safety standards. Company registration: You must register your business with Companies House if you are registering as a limited company. Taxes: As a business owner, you are responsible for paying taxes, including Income Tax (for sole traders) or Corporation Tax (for limited companies). You must also register for VAT if your taxable turnover exceeds the VAT threshold (currently £95,000) Product Safety Standards: All products sold must comply with UK safety standards, which include the General Product Safety Regulations 2005 . This ensures that your products are safe for consumers and their pets. Product label: Labels should comply with the Consumer Rights Act 2015, which mandates that products must be of satisfactory quality and fit for purpose. Testing and Certification: Depending on the type of dog accessories you sell (such as toys or grooming products), specific testing may be required to ensure they meet safety standards. The government website , the British Standards Institution , and Trading Standards are great resources for information on legal and regulatory requirements. By staying compliant, you can protect your business and ensure a positive experience for your customers. Pet licences last only for a year, so you’d have to renew every year. Start your dog accessory business with Start Up A-Z The UK's love for pets is unconditional, making today an ideal time to start a dog accessories business. To succeed, you'll need a solid plan, innovative products, and effective marketing. From stylish collars to cosy sweaters, there's a huge market for innovative and high-quality products. So, if you're passionate about pets and ready to turn your hobby into a profitable business, you can register your company for free today with SUAZ. Recommended Readings Pricing your dog walking business Read More How to Start a Pet Shop Business: A Complete Guide Read More A Guide to Finding a Dog-walking Business Name Read More

Discover the top freelance skills. Use this information to make informed career choices and identify opportunities that align with your interests and expertise. Sizing up freelance roles 10 min read Beginner's Guide Table of Contents Categories The most competitive freelance roles The benefits of pursuing a competitive freelance role The least competitive freelance roles The benefits of pursuing a less competitive freelance role Tips for succeeding in competitive markets Tips for succeeding in less competitive markets Conclusion Beginner's Guide Business Trends Company Formations Start-Up Finance Virtual Office It’s estimated that there are around 4 million freelancers in the UK , a figure which has more than doubled in the last few years. With the cost of living continuing to rise and employers tightening their purse strings, many workers are turning to freelancing to boost their income. But, with so many choices out there, it can make it exceptionally challenging for freelancers to find work. But, with a little planning, freelancing can be incredibly lucrative – you just need to know what opportunities are out there. Check out our guide on how to set up a freelancer business in 2024 here. Naturally, you’re going to want to freelance in an area you know best. But, that might not necessarily be what potential clients are looking for. To give yourself the best chance of success, you need to understand market competition so you can offer skills that are in high demand. We’ve analysed listings on freelance job website Upwork to identify the most in-demand freelance skills. To determine this, we took the number of freelancers and divided it by the number of jobs to reveal the most competitive and least competitive roles. That way, you can use your skills to fill a gap in the freelance market and spend less time looking for work and more time making money. The most competitive freelance roles For the most competitive freelance roles, we’ve taken a look at the number of freelancers there are per listing. The most competitive freelance role, with 821 registered freelancers per job posted on Upwork, is marketing . However, this does include a wide range of skills, including SEO, social media marketing, email marketing, pay-per-click advertising and more. The more niche your services are, the less competition you’re going to have. Similarly, content marketing is the second most competitive freelance role, with 500 freelancers per job. Content marketing has huge SEO value and blogs and social media content are always in demand. Podcasts are also a popular form of content, so many freelancers offer their services in this area, with 214 freelancers per job posted. This is in part due to the equipment needed for podcasting now being more accessible and affordable than it has been in the past. Following the marketing trend, digital marketing has 203 freelancers per job listing, thanks to it being the perfect choice for remote freelancers. Plus, many businesses have a need for freelance digital marketing jobs in some capacity. Finally, the fifth highest competitive freelance role is AI art , with 202 freelancers per job. This is mostly due to the recent surge in AI generation and the affordability for both businesses and freelancers. It’s also an attractive role for moonlighters as it often doesn’t take a long time to produce. The benefits of pursuing a competitive freelance role While it can be tricky to find clients in a competitive market, there are benefits too. There’s usually a reason there are a lot of freelancers in a certain industry, such as the amount of opportunities. While you may find yourself the unfortunate recipient of many rejections, there are generally plenty more jobs right around the corner. Wide and varied talent pools can also attract established and well-funded businesses, giving you the chance to work with prestigious companies. The more freelancers there are, the greater the opportunity you have for networking. Building a network of contacts who are also freelancers can help get your name out there. Success in a competitive role can build you a strong reputation. But, getting there may take time and effort initially. The least competitive freelance roles Choosing to pursue one of the most in-demand freelance jobs can make it a little easier to begin your freelance career, especially if there’s less competition. For the least competitive freelance roles, we’ve taken a look at the number of job listings there are per freelancer available. The least competitive freelance role is remote notary , with 578 jobs per freelancer posted to Upwork. Unlike many freelance roles, to become a remote notary you need specific qualifications and legal authorisation, which can vary depending on location. You must also comply with local laws and regulations, which means you may be limited to working with local clients. The second least competitive role is pattern maker , with 157 jobs per freelancer. This is a highly specialised skill but can be lucrative if you have the experience. Next up, with 123 jobs per freelancer is technical recruiting , which requires a deep understanding of specific roles and industries, and can be more challenging than non-specialised recruitment. The fourth least competitive freelance role is data encoder . With many basic encoding tasks now possible using AI, many freelancers are reskilling – which means there are plenty of opportunities available for those who persist. Rounding out the top five, with 33 jobs per freelancer, is executive assistant . This is a role that requires trust, understanding and confidentiality, and freelancers with a strong reputation and experience can have a lot of success. The benefits of pursuing a less competitive freelance role There are plenty of benefits to pursuing a freelance role in a less competitive market that makes it hugely desirable and potentially profitable for skilled freelancers. Of course, the less competition you have, the more likely you are to secure work and spend less time looking for work. This ensures stability and you’re more likely to have consistent income. Speaking of income, with these specialist freelance skills in demand, you’re in a far better position to set your rates a little higher, as the lack of competition means clients are more likely to pay. With less competition, you have a great opportunity to establish yourself in a niche area, and potentially turn your side hustle into your full-time career. Tips for succeeding in competitive markets Just because a market is particularly competitive, it doesn’t mean you can’t be successful. Clients are keen to hire skilled and dependable professionals, so if this is you then there’s plenty of money to be made. Here are eight tips for succeeding as a freelancer in competitive markets: Continue to upskill and gain certifications to ensure you stand out from other freelancers Focus on a specific skill or area of expertise rather than being a ‘jack of all trades’ Ensure you stay up to date with trends, tools and technologies to ensure you’re adaptable and have all the latest knowledge and insight Build a strong portfolio to show off the experience you have in areas your ideal clients are looking for Ensure your rates strike a balance between being competitive and knowing your worth Build a network of client and peer relationships so you become a go-to professional Invest in marketing and build your personal brand as a freelancer Never over promise, which can be challenging if freelancing is your side hustle – remember to ensure you still have downtime Aliyah Loughlan, freelance Digital PR consultant , shares her experience with freelancing, describes the ups and downs and shares how to succeed in a competitive market. “Freelancing comes with its challenges just like any other role - it’s not all slow mornings, gym sessions whenever you want and a chilled lifestyle as many people like to think. “In order to thrive in the digital PR industry as a freelancer you need to ensure you’re committed to building a strong portfolio that is results-driven and clearly shows the coverage, links and traffic you’ve helped drive to previous clients’ websites. Not only do you need to promote yourself in a professional but approachable way, you need to ensure you’re always putting yourself out there. “One thing about our industry is that it’s full of amazing freelancers. So, although there’s competition, it’s about supporting one another too - for example, if there’s a lead you aren’t suited to, pass it on to someone you think it would be perfect for. Being kind and supportive really does go a long way in this industry! “Another way to achieve success in this industry is to network. Our industry is full of lots of free and amazing conferences where you can network and find clients who may be looking for PR services. Not only are you potentially learning a thing or two from the lineup of speakers, but you’re broadening your list of potential clients.” Tips for succeeding in less competitive markets Even though it can be easier to find clients in a less competitive market, you still can’t expect to stumble into success without putting in the effort. Here are eight freelance tips for finding success as a freelancer in less competitive markets: Make the most of your specialised skills and emphasise to clients what sets you apart Network with niche professionals and build a support network you can use to share workloads and offer recommendations Broaden your skill set so you don’t restrict yourself to a certain type of project to help avoid burnout Don’t be tempted to deliver a substandard service just because there’s little competition as this can hurt your reputation Be flexible and offer bespoke solutions to your clients needs to help them meet their goals Keep up to date with industry trends and developments Manage your time well and don’t overpromise, which can lead to an impact on your day job and affect your downtime Build a portfolio filled with testimonials and case studies to prove to prospective clients that you’re the right person for the job Conclusion There’s a lot to think about before diving into the hectic world of freelance, especially if it’s not something you’ve dabbled in before. Even if you’re a leading expert in your field, during the early days it can still be tricky finding clients. The key is to sell yourself, be patient and understand that clients have their pick of the litter. It’s about making sure you find the right clients for you and you offer your services competitively. Freelancers who work in less competitive markets don’t necessarily have it easy, but finding clients isn’t quite the same sort of slog. But, even freelancers in less competitive markets still need to have dedication and perseverance, as things still aren’t likely to be served up to you on a plate. That being said, freelancing is the perfect way to boost your income by doing what you love and excel at. Not only can you earn money, you can grow your career and even turn freelancing into your full-time job. Sound like something you want to do? If you're ready to start your freelance business, check your business name is available and SUAZ will help you set up the rest . Recommended Readings A Guide to Writing Contracts as a Freelancer Read More How to Start an Online Business in 2025 Read More How to Set Up a Freelancer Business in 2024 Read More

Find out where the most profitable buy-to-let locations are for starting a business. We’ve compared the average property costs across the UK’s biggest cities. The best buy-to-let locations for starting a business 15 min read Business Trends Table of Contents Categories Benefits of a buy-to-let limited company The UK’s most profitable buy-to-let hotspots Benefits of these locations What is rental yield? The difference between gross and net rental yield Why rental yield matters for investments What is considered a good rental yield? How to calculate rental yield How to maximise your rental yield What taxes are involved with buy-to-let? How much tax you pay on buy-to-let property income Stamp duty Capital Gains Tax Inheritance tax Real life case study from a property business owner Further costs associated with buy-to-let properties To wrap things up… Beginner's Guide Business Trends Company Formations Start-Up Finance Virtual Office If you’re looking to take the buy-to-let property market by storm, choosing the right location is crucial. Perhaps you’re looking to expand your property portfolio, or you’re a newcomer to the real estate market. Whatever your circumstances, we’re here to help you make the right decision when choosing buy-to-let locations, to improve your chances of business success. In December 2023, average house prices were estimated to have fallen by 2.1% due to high mortgage rates and the cost of living crisis. But the market will likely pick up again, with 47% of landlords believing the Bank of England’s base rate will fall in 2024 - great news for those starting in the real estate industry. We’ve explored 50 of the biggest cities to uncover the best buy-to-let locations in the UK, looking at average property prices, rental costs and letting agent fees in each city to determine the net yield and potential returns on property investment. We’ve also reached out to current buy-to-let business owners who have shared insight into the property market and current considerations. So, what are you waiting for? Benefits of a buy-to-let limited company If the buy-to-let industry is calling your name, you’ll need to decide if you’d prefer to keep the properties in your name, as a sole trader, or if you’d benefit from forming a limited company . There are several benefits to starting a buy-to-let limited company , especially when it comes to business tax and legal protection. Let’s delve into the benefits of operating as a limited company: Limited liability: Should you face financial difficulties as a limited company, you’ll receive protection in the form of limited liability . This means your business is legally classified as an ‘individual’ and a separate legal entity. So, should you run into financial trouble as a business, the business itself is responsible, not you personally. You wouldn’t be obligated to pay any debts or personally cover any financial losses. Tax efficiency: Operating as a limited company can be more tax-efficient than working as a sole trader. As a limited company, you’ll pay 19-25% Corporation Tax on profits compared to the 20-45% Income Tax you’d pay as a sole trader. Professionalism: Choosing to operate as a limited company may give your professionalism and credibility a boost. Your potential customers are likely to perceive you as more trustworthy and established. The UK’s most profitable buy-to-let hotspots So, where is the best place for buy-to-let? We’ve uncovered the top UK cities for buy-to-let, based on their property prices, monthly rent prices, management fees and best net rental yield. Net yield is the return, or potential return, of a rental property after costs have been deducted such as letting and management fees. The top buy-to-let hotspots in the UK, coming out in joint first place, are Manchester, Glasgow and Aberdeen, all with a net yield of 6.9%. The average buy-to-let property price in Manchester is £251,557, with an average monthly rent of £1,713. Compared to the average UK house price of £290,000 in July 2023, Manchester’s property prices are significantly cheaper than the national average, making them a worthwhile investment for buy-to-let investors. Glasgow and Aberdeen’s average buy-to-let prices also fell significantly below the national average, at £230,619 and £189,633 respectively, making them attractive buy-to-let locations for those looking to invest in property. It seems that opting for cities in the North of England and Scotland are generally better for yields than cities in the South of England and London. This is true for Stoke-on-Trent and Birmingham which came out in second place for the most profitable, with net yields of 6.8%. Benefits of these locations These best areas for buy-to-let offer more than just profitability, they’re also prime locations known for their culture scene and business opportunities. As mentioned, Manchester ranked in first place for most profitable buy-to-let hotspots, alongside Glasgow and Aberdeen, and is a bustling city to consider. With an economy worth £62.8 billion , it has firmly cemented itself as a major business hub in the UK. If you’re a music buff, you’ll know what Joy Division, The Smiths and Oasis all have in common - Manchester! It’s renowned for its vibrant music scene and unmissable music venues such as the Warehouse Project. It’s safe to say Manchester is a worthy contender when searching for the best buy-to-let locations in the UK, with its high rental yields and job opportunities, and strong economy. The same can certainly be said for Glasgow, whose average house price in its West End area has risen by 27% since 2019 - great news for property investors. Glasgow is Scotland’s economic powerhouse, generating £19.3 billion GVA per annum . According to Rightmove, Aberdeen is the third cheapest city for first-time buyers , so if you’re new to the buy-to-let world, you could benefit financially from your investment. Local estate agents in Aberdeen have predicted that house prices will rise by 1-2% in 2024 , so you could make a significant profit on your investment should you choose to invest in Aberdeen’s housing market. The city is home to an array of green spaces, beaches and beautiful views, offering an excellent quality of life. Named one of the most affordable cities to own a home, Aberdeen is certainly worth considering, with the average cost of a mortgage, utilities and council tax being only 37% of the median monthly salary . What is rental yield? When starting a property business , there are two ways you can make money - either through an increase in the value of your property, or through the rent you receive as a landlord. When looking for buy-to-let hotspots in the UK, a key deciding factor for investing in property is the rental yield you can expect to receive. Rental yield is a metric used to assess the profitability and potential return of a property investment. It’s usually presented as a percentage. The difference between gross and net rental yield While gross rental yield and net rental yield are both used to assess the potential returns on property investment, they differ in the expenses they use to calculate profit. Gross rental yield takes the annual rental income generated by your property and divides it by its total cost or market value. Net rental yield also takes into account the various expenses that come with owning and maintaining a property, such as property management fees, insurance and maintenance costs. This means net rental yield offers you a comprehensive measure of your property’s profitability, by factoring in all the costs that come with a property, not just the cost of the property itself. Why rental yield matters for investments Rental yield is crucial for you to assess the potential return on your investment, which can help you make informed decisions about the property you choose to invest in. You can use rental yield to calculate the income a property will generate, and the level of risk a property may have. For example, lower rental yields may indicate a higher level of risk, while higher yields may suggest a better return on investment. What is considered a good rental yield? What is considered a good rental yield will depend on factors such as the location of the property, market conditions and whether the property is residential or student accommodation, for example. Generally speaking, a gross rental yield of 5 - 6% is considered ‘good’, while anything over 7% is seen as ‘very good’. How to calculate rental yield Calculating the rental yield of a property should be fairly straightforward once you know how. Here’s the calculation to use: (Annual rent / property value) x 100 = gross rental yield For example, if you purchased a property for £200,000 and charged £1050 per month, your gross rental yield would look something like: £1050 x 12 = £12,600 (£12,600 / £200,000) x 100 = 6.3% How to maximise your rental yield Typically speaking, the higher your rental yield, the stronger your property investment - so it’s often a key goal for landlords. Here are a handful of ways you could look to increase your rental yield: Choose the right buy-to-let location: Choosing a property in a high-demand location could increase your rental income. Consider transport links, business opportunities in the area, schools and local amenities when looking at potential areas. Upgrade the property: Could you add another bathroom or bedroom to the property? If you have a large living space that isn’t necessary, you could turn it into an extra bedroom to boost your cash flow. This may attract more tenants which could increase your profits. Pets: Many landlords say no to pets. After all, you’ve spent significant time and money on the property, you want to prevent damage. But rental properties that allow pets are hard to come by for tenants, so you may be able to increase your rental cost if you say yes to pets (and what harm will a furry friend do really?) What taxes are involved with buy-to-let? Tax can feel like a minefield for a new business owner, but it’s a crucial thing to get right. The last thing you want is to face a hefty fine. Here are some of the taxes involved with buy-to-let for you to consider: Income tax: For the 2023/24 tax year, basic taxpayers pay 20% tax on buy-to-let income. If you’re a higher-rate taxpayer, you’ll pay 40%. National Insurance: If your profits are more than £12,570 per year, you’ll need to pay Class 2 National Insurance contributions. You’ll pay this through Self Assessment. It’s important to note that you can get buy-to-let tax relief on income tax. This means you’ll pay tax on the profit you make, once your ‘allowable expenses’ have been deducted. These expenses include the money you spend on the day-to-day running of the property such as letting agents’ fees, buildings and contents insurance, accountants’ fees and Council Tax. You can find out more about these allowable expenses on the government’s website. How much tax you pay on buy-to-let property income The income you receive from charging rent on your property is taxable. This means you’ll need to declare any rent you receive to HMRC (once you’ve deducted the expenses or allowances explained above) when filling out your Self Assessment tax return. As mentioned, how much tax you’ll pay will depend on your income tax band (either 20% or 40%). If you make money from other sources, such as employment, your rental profits will be taxed at the same rates as your other income. Stamp duty You’ll pay stamp duty on your buy-to-let property if the purchase means you’ll own more than one property and the property is worth more than £40,000. This type of stamp duty is known as the Additional Stamp Duty Rate and is charged as an extra on top of your standard stamp duty bill. So, if your property purchase means you own more than one property, you’ll pay a 3% stamp duty surcharge. Capital Gains Tax You may need to pay Capital Gains Tax if you make a profit when you sell a property that isn’t your home, such as a buy-to-let property. To work out if you’re required to pay Capital Gains Tax, you’ll need to calculate the ‘gain’ you’ve made from selling the property. The Capital Gains Tax rate is 18% for basic rate taxpayers earning up to £50,000 per year. This rate then rises to 28% for higher-rate taxpayers earning more than £50,000 per year. But like income tax, you’re entitled to a tax-free allowance which can reduce your tax bill. Until April 2025, the Capital Gains Tax tax-free allowance is £12,300. Inheritance tax If you’re a landlord or property business owner, you may look to pass on your property to loved ones once you’ve passed away. To do this, you must understand how Inheritance Tax (IHT) works and how it may affect your property portfolio. Should you pass away owning property, your beneficiaries (those in line to receive inheritance from you following your death) may need to pay IHT on your estate. IHT is charged at 40%, but everyone is entitled to the nil-rate-band allowance of £325,000 which they won’t pay tax on. Anything above this threshold is subject to the 40% tax rate. Real life case study from a property business owner We asked Michelle Niziol, estate agent, mortgage broker, property investor and director of IMS Property Group about her experiences with buy-to-let and any key takeaways she can share with new property investors. “The biggest challenge of starting a buy-to-let portfolio is usually the capital to put down as a deposit. You typically need at least 25% deposit of the value of the property. “Then understanding the local property market is critical, you need to be able to identify areas with potential for rental income and property appreciation and this can be challenging, especially for beginners. “You need to be careful with your property selection, ensure that the property you choose aligns with your investment goals, budget, and target tenant market, you need to consider factors such as location, property condition and potential rental yield.” When it comes to long-term success as a buy-to-let business owner, Michelle shared the following tips: “Ensure that you secure a property in the right location, near public transport routes, good schools and ensure that when the tenant moves in, the property is refurbished to a high standard. Make sure you deal with maintenance issues promptly, and enlist a reputable letting agent to fully manage your property.” Further costs associated with buy-to-let properties When investing in property, it’s important to consider any ongoing costs that may affect the returns on your investment. Once you’ve purchased a property, there are several ongoing expenses you’ll need to cover, including: Property maintenance costs: The cost of regular upkeep for your property, including cleaning, gardening and ensuring the property is kept in good working order. Agency fees: If you choose to rent out your property through a letting agent, you’ll need to pay letting agents’ fees. How much this will cost depends on the tasks the letting agent provides. You may choose to pay a one-off fee for a let-only service, which is usually around four weeks’ rent. If you choose full property management, the agent will deal with any day-to-day issues such as damage to the property or a tenant leaving without giving notice. This could cost you up to 20%. Repairs: We’re talking about repairs that go beyond your day-to-day maintenance. Unexpected repairs may crop up occasionally, such as a boiler breaking or something structural that needs fixing. Making sure you have a pot of money set aside for repairs can help. Insurance: You can take out buy-to-let landlord insurance, a more specialised type of home insurance, to protect you against risk when renting out your property. You may find that some home insurance providers won’t cover you if you aren’t living in your property, so make sure you take out the right cover for your needs. Insurance can protect you financially should the unexpected happen, such as a fire or flood, or even a tenant is injured due to a fault in the property and takes legal action. To wrap things up… If you’ve always wanted to start a business, what are you waiting for? Nothing compares to the feeling of being your own boss, and the property industry is a thriving one to be a part of. Now you know the most profitable buy-to-let hotspots, there’s no reason to wait. Form your company with SUAZ today - we’re excited to help kickstart your new venture. Recommended Readings

Learn the key differences of paying tax, personal liability and more if you’re weighing up whether to run a business as a sole trader or a limited company. Self Employed vs Limited Company - What’s Best? 12 min read Company Formations Table of Contents Categories What’s the difference between a sole trader and a limited company? Tax differences between self-employed and a limited company Tax if you’re a sole trader How much can you earn self-employed before paying tax? Tax if you’re a registered limited company VAT Could I change from a sole trader to a limited company? Greater pension options Reduced risk of personal insolvency You could sell your business Weighing up your options to form a company Let SUAZ help you on your business journey Beginner's Guide Business Trends Company Formations Start-Up Finance Virtual Office No feeling compares to taking the leap to start your own business. Financial freedom, flexible working hours and the ability to build a culture you care about - the list of benefits is endless. From doing your research, you’ll know there are several big decisions you’ll need to make as a business owner - and we’re not just talking about the paint colours of your new office. You’ll need to decide on the structure of your new business, and weigh up the pros and cons of a self employed vs limited company. Below, we’ll uncover the difference between a sole trader and limited company, so you can figure out which business structure works best for your new venture. What’s the difference between a sole trader and a limited company? While operating as a sole trader or limited company won’t change your role as a business owner, there are numerous differences to consider when you compare limited company vs self employed in the UK. We’ve put together this table to outline the differences between a sole trader and limited company, so you can match your needs to a business structure that works for you. Sole trader Limited company You’ll need to register with HMRC to let them know you’re self-employed Limited companies are treated as separate legal entities, meaning you aren’t personally responsible for your business’ losses or debts You’ll be personally liable for any business debts or financial losses Most limited companies are ‘limited by shares’, meaning they’re owned by shareholders. You can own 100% of the company, or a percentage of it depending on the weighting between shareholders If you’re sued, your personal assets may be at risk It will cost you money to register as a limited company (a £50 registration fee) but SUAZ covers the cost to make it more affordable for you to chase your dream It doesn’t cost you anything to get started as a sole trader - but remember, you’re personally liable should things go wrong financially When your business is registered you become a director of the company Tax differences between self-employed and a limited company A key difference between becoming self-employed and forming a limited company is tax. Below, we’ll explore some of the tax implications of a self employed vs limited company. Tax if you’re a sole trader As a sole trader, you’re responsible for keeping on top of your taxes. How much tax you pay will depend on the profit you make and how much income you earn each financial year (which runs April-April). Once your income exceeds the tax-free personal allowance threshold, which is £12,570, you’ll need to pay tax on anything you earn over that amount. Sole traders pay between 20-45% income tax, whereas limited companies pay only 19% corporation tax, making them more tax efficient. Those who are self-employed are also required to pay National Insurance Contributions (NICs) and the class you pay depends on the profit you make. If you make a profit of £6,725 or more a year, Class 2 contributions are treated as having been paid to protect your NI record, so you don’t need to pay Class 2 contributions. If you earn less than this a year, you don’t need to pay anything but can choose to make voluntary Class 2 contributions to protect your NI record, so you qualify for certain benefits and the state pension. Make more than £12,570 a year? You’ll need to pay Class 4 Contributions, which for the 2024-25 tax year are as follows: 6% on profits of £12,570 up to £50,270 2% on profits over £50,270 How much can you earn self-employed before paying tax? You’ll pay tax on anything you earn over the standard Personal Allowance, which for the 2024/25 tax year is £12,570. Tax if you’re a registered limited company As a limited company, you’ll pay corporation tax, which is typically less than the income tax you’d pay as a sole trader. If your business made more than £250,000, you’ll pay the main rate of corporation tax which is 25%. If your company’s profits were £50,000 or less, you’ll pay the small profits rate of 19%. As a company director, you may choose to pay yourself a mix of salary and dividends, meaning your salary amount is smaller, and in turn, you’ll pay less tax. Dividends are taxed at a lower rate , allowing you to maximise your take-home pay. This method also lowers the amount of National Insurance you’ll pay. As the director of your limited company, you’ll pay two types of National Insurance contributions - the company itself will pay NIC as an employer, and you’ll also pay it on your salary. You’ll be responsible for paying National Insurance through HMRC’s PAYE (Pay as You Earn) system, as part of your business’ payroll. Limited companies are also required to file annual reports to Companies House, which become available to the public. These accounts include details on your profits and losses, a balance sheet, a director’s report, an auditor’s report and your name and signature. VAT Whether you’re a sole trader or limited company, you’ll need to register for value added tax (VAT) if your turnover goes over £90,000 - the VAT threshold. You can also choose to register for VAT if your turnover is less than £90,000, known as voluntary registration. Currently, in the UK, the rate of VAT is 20%. A good way to think of it is your business isn’t paying VAT - instead, you’re charging your customer, for you to then pay HMRC. You’ll then complete a VAT tax return, usually quarterly, to let HMRC know how much VAT you’ve charged. You’ll need to include your total sales and purchases, the amount of VAT you owe, the amount of VAT you can reclaim and the amount of VAT HMRC owes you. You can submit your VAT return using compatible accounting software, through an agent or accountant, or by using your online VAT account . Could I change from a sole trader to a limited company? You have the freedom to operate as a sole trader initially while you find your feet, and later decide to register your business as a limited company. Just because you started out as a sole trader, it doesn’t mean you can’t change your mind further down the line. But, it’s important to be aware of the challenges many new businesses face. According to the UK’s self employed survival rates for 2025 , a significant number of sole traders close within the first few years. Understanding these survival rates can help you plan your business journey more effectively. Changing from a sole trader to a limited company could shield you from financial risk. This is because a limited company is treated as a separate legal entity from its director, meaning you won’t be personally liable should your business suffer financially. You may also benefit financially when it comes to business tax. Rather than paying between 20-45% income tax, you’ll pay corporation tax at 19%. As a director, you can also choose to take home a smaller salary and receive your additional income as dividends to help lower your tax bill. There are further benefits to registering as a limited company including: Greater pension options As a sole trader, you’ll only be eligible for a personal pension and you can’t deduct your pension contributions as an expense of your business. This means your contributions will need to come from your take-home pay after tax. You’ll still be eligible for the State Pension as long as you have ten qualifying years on your National Insurance record to get any state pension, and at least 35 years to receive the full State Pension. Operating as a limited company can unlock greater pension options. Your pension contributions can be treated as an allowable business expense if the payments are ‘ wholly and exclusively ’ for the purposes of the profession, trade or vocation. What does this mean exactly? Well, you can offset the pension contributions against your business profits and in turn reduce your corporation tax bill. As a limited company, you may also have the chance to join or provide a small self-administered scheme, known as an SSAS pension - a type of workplace pension that is independently managed by the company that sets it up. Reduced risk of personal insolvency As we mentioned earlier, as a limited company you have the legal protection that should your business face financial difficulties, you won’t be personally affected. This is known as limited liability , which protects you should your business ever struggle with debts, financial losses or liabilities, the business itself is responsible for them - not you individually. This is because, in the eyes of the law, your business is classed as an ‘individual’ and separate legal entity. You could sell your business You never know what the future holds - one day you may feel ready for something new and choose to sell your limited company. Remember, if you have more than one owner, all shareholders will need to agree to the sale first. You may also need to pay capital gains tax if you make a ‘capital gain’ when selling your business. Weighing up your options to form a company Deciding which business structure suits you best can feel tricky, especially when you consider the differences between a sole trader and limited company. To help you weigh up your options, we’ve put together this comparative table comparing a self employed vs limited company. Advantages Disadvantages Sole trader You’ll have full flexibility and control over your business without the input of shareholders You don’t need to register your business with Companies House, meaning you’ll have less paperwork to complete You keep all profits after tax You aren’t legally separate from your business, so you’ll be personally liable for any business debts Your personal assets are tied to your business The tax you pay will depend on your income (between 20-45%) Limited company As the owner of a limited company, you’re financially protected should your business suffer financially Your personal assets aren’t tied to your business Your limited company is treated as an ‘individual’ and is a separate legal entity You’ll pay corporation tax at a flat rate (19%) Control is shared between owners, known as ‘members’ You have to register your company with Companies House and pay a registration fee (unless you register with SUAZ - we’ll cover the registration fee for you) Your profits are taxed via corporation tax, income tax and National Insurance Let SUAZ help you on your business journey If you’re looking to start your own business, there’s no reason to wait. Why not let SUAZ help you on your road to success? We can help you form your limited company and even take care of the registration fee, completely free of charge. Apply to form your company and reap the rewards you deserve. Recommended Readings How Long Does It Take to Set Up a Limited Company? Read More What is Limited Liability in a Business? Read More Advantages & Disadvantages of Limited Liability Read More

Welcome new business owner! Let's explore our proven method for testing your business idea, getting it to market, and proving your success as a business owner. Back to Home The SUAZ Method Welcome new business owner, we’d like to take you through our method. We think this is the best way to test an idea, get it to market and prove to yourself that you can succeed. We’re not a company formation agent. We’re a startup agency. We don’t deal with big established businesses setting up their 100th company. We deal with new business owners who need a hand. Instead of just submitting your company registration to Companies House – we’re here from A-Z. To us that means taking you to your first sale, proving your idea and giving you the tools and knowledge to succeed in the long run. Our mission is to give you the best chance of success. Some businesses will fail, that’s the nature of taking a risk. But by following the SUAZ method, you’ll be better placed than anyone who forms a company today not using us.
 Most company formation agents consider their job done when your company is registered. We consider the road to your first sale: Just give us a call if you need a specialist. We’ve been there and we want to help: Think of what goes in to starting a business – it’s not one process and it’s so difficult to do alone. Consider our Start Up Specialist/Business Owner , Joe Joe started his first business at 18 selling smart watches online (before the Apple Watch even existed!) He got a loan of £6,000, registered his business and made all the wrong turns we want you to avoid. He spent most of his money on stock, that quickly outdated as the tech he was selling moved on so fast. He panicked when it came to his first annual return, as he didn’t have an accountant, spent many nights worried about if he had took on too much too soon. The reality is, Joe’s idea was great, he identified a new industry that was growing quickly and had lots of interest. His mistake was not surrounding himself with support to lean on and ask the right questions to. Joe now advises start-ups on what to do when starting their business. His advice, built on his own experience is: ⦿ Seek help and don’t try to do everything yourself ⦿ Keep costs down until you have proved your concept. You don’t need to spend a fortune to clarify that your idea is a good one ⦿ Use your network – sell to friends and family, take on feedback and refine your idea ⦿ Try not to worry, it can be daunting, but most people are rooting for your success. You will make mistakes, but they will only help in the long run. ⦿ Success can take time, and not every idea will work. But by using SUAZ, BSC and our resources, staff and support network, you’re giving yourself the best possible chance.

At just £5 +VAT, this package covers company formation, including the Companies House mandatory £50 filing fee. Its a great value with money-back guarantee. Quick Formation: Start Your Business Now Choose a name and get your company formation prioritised This package, at just £5 +VAT , covers not only a quick company formation, but also includes Companies House mandatory £50 filing fee. It’s great value and comes with a money-back guarantee. About this package £ 5 . 00 +VAT Buy now Consider this if... You need a limited company and you need it quickly. This package guarantees a quick formation and resolution or your money back. This package doesn’t include extra perks, but they can be purchased during the checkout process. What's Included Limited company formation Companies House filing fee (£50) included in the price Standard memorandum & company articles Priority Formation Digital documents pack Help & support by phone or online Business Support Club Account Key Features Priority formation No hidden fees Digital documents Professional assistance No paperwork Know more about the inclusions Company Formation Company Formations Digital Documents Pack Help and Support Help and Support BSC Account BSC Or... you can go with Privacy Package! Choose this package to use our prestigious address to register your company, instead of your home address. Also included, a business telephone number that forwards to your mobile so customers see a business, not a person. Read more Additionally, you will get: Business Landline number Manchester Virtual office address

SUAZ provides a virtual mailing address in Manchester. Give your business a prestigious mailing address while keeping your address private. Start free trial now Business Mail Forwarding Services in Manchester A virtual mailing address in the heart of Manchester can help keep all your communications organised as you settle into the business world. From just £9.99 +VAT, our mail-forwarding services keep your mail safe and secure and protect your privacy too. Select a Package Get ready to impress with your Manchester address Our virtual mailing address really offers you the best of both worlds - a prestigious mail address in the UK, all while keeping your home address under wraps. Our mail-forwarding services take care of your important post and forward it directly to you ; either digitally via email, or to an address of your choosing via post. That way, you’ll save yourself the hassle and cost of renting a physical office space and establish your business’ professional image too. Why choose SUAZ for business mail-forwarding services? After all, we’ve been in your shoes. Making your business dreams a reality doesn’t need to feel impossible. SUAZ’s mail-forwarding services can help you tick another thing off your list, so your business will be ready to go in no time. Making your business dreams a reality doesn’t need to feel impossible. SUAZ’s mail-forwarding services can help you tick another thing off your list, so your business will be ready to go in no time. Starting a business always comes with a level of risk, so it’s natural to feel hesitant to commit to mail-forwarding services straight away. That’s why we let you try before you buy, so you can test the waters before committing to a virtual mail address long-term. Our services are competitively priced and allow you to choose from multiple levels of mail-forwarding support, to make sure you only pay for what you need - being an entrepreneur is costly enough as it is! Once you’ve got your virtual mailing address sorted out, you’ll also get access to a Business Support Club (BSC) account. You’ll be able to manage your order, get in contact with us whenever you need to and browse a selection of additional products and services, allowing you to tailor all manner of business support services precisely to your needs - all manageable from one easy-to use platform. Benefits of having a mail-forwarding address Having a virtual address with mail-forwarding can offer several benefits to you and your business: 01 Confidentiality Mail-forwarding services allow you to have all your business communications sent to an email or postal address of your choosing, to keep your home address private. This can help you maintain a good work-life balance and means you’ll avoid any unexpected home visits from clients or customers! 03 Level up your marketing You can use your new registered or director service address on your marketing materials, social media and website, making your new company look highly reputable to potential customers. 02 Free use of our meeting room Our impressive Manchester office has a meeting room that you can book for one time and use when you need a more formal setting for meetings - boosting your professional image with the flexibility you need, while keeping costs down. 04 Support round the clock Starting your own business can feel overwhelming - but it doesn’t need to be. You’ll have our support whenever you need it, to maximise your chances of success. Pay Monthly Pay Annually /month + VAT Basic Package £9.99 For new businesses who want to make a great first impression with a prestigious address. Order Now Registered and director service address that can be used for website, social media, and marketing materials Unlimited digital mail forwarding of statutory mail Up to 2 items of digital mail forwarding of business-related mail per calendar month /month + VAT Professional Package £12.99 For growing businesses who want to take their address to the next level. Upgrade the basic package with enhanced mail forwarding. Order Now Registered and director service address that can be used for website, social media, and marketing materials Unlimited digital mail forwarding of statutory mail Up to 5 items of digital mail and post mail forwarding of business mail per calendar month /month + VAT Premium Package £24.99 Ultimate virtual office solution for businesses who demand the very best. With a regular mailing address, this is the perfect business solution for rapid-growing businesses. Order Now Registered and director service address that can be used for website, social media, and marketing materials Unlimited digital and post mail forwarding of statutory mail Up to 100 items of digital mail and post mail forwarding of business mail per calendar month 30 minutes use of our meeting room per calendar month /per year + VAT Basic Package £99.99 For new businesses who want to make a great first impression with a prestigious address. Order Now Registered and director service address that can be used for website, social media, and marketing materials Unlimited digital mail forwarding of statutory mail Up to 2 items of digital mail forwarding of business-related mail per calendar month Weekly mail pickup service /per year + VAT Professional Package £129.99 For growing businesses who want to take their address to the next level. Upgrade the basic package with enhanced mail forwarding. Order Now Registered and director service address that can be used for website, social media, and marketing materials Unlimited digital mail forwarding of statutory mail Up to 5 items of digital mail and post mail forwarding of business mail per calendar month Weekly mail pickup service Sign up bonus: 1 hour free use of our meeting room /per year + VAT Premium Package £224.99 Ultimate virtual office solution for businesses who demand the very best. With a regular mailing address, this is the perfect business solution for rapid-growing businesses. Order Now Registered and director service address that can be used for website, social media, and marketing materials Unlimited digital and post mail forwarding of statutory mail Up to 100 items of digital mail and post mail forwarding of business mail per calendar month Weekly mail pickup service 30 minutes use of our meeting room per calendar month Which package is right for you? Which virtual office address package is right for you will ultimately depend on your circumstances and how much support you need to get your business ready to roll. Check it here The 4-step onboarding process Manchester Virtual Office offers a very simple, quick and convenient onboarding framework for our customers who need a virtual office. The good news is — you can do all these online! What our clients say about us 95% of clients would use us again 99% customer satisfaction rate 60% average reduction in costs for new clients within the first year Frequently asked questions Home Page Registered Office Address Start Up A-Z General Company Formation Help After Company Formation Virtual Offices Address Services Business Call Answering Documents Filing SUAZ Homepage FAQs Other Services Filing Confirmation Statement Business Support Club Partnership Director’s Service Address in Manchester Compare Packages Virtual Office Birmingham Virtual Office How can SUAZ offer company formations for free? Here at SUAZ, we believe that it shouldn’t cost you a fortune to follow your dream. We also know that starting a business isn’t cheap, which is why our company formation service is completely free - so you can keep your hard-earned cash to make your business the best it can be. Wondering how we make our money? Our upsells are bonus features that can help your business get a head start. We also introduce you to other businesses and sometimes earn a commission from doing so. When can your business be up and running? We try our best to get your business up and running as quickly as possible. Submissions sent before midday usually come back to us the same day, but this can’t be guaranteed as delays do happen. We try to get all applications back within 36 hours, but if there are issues with your application such as your company name being flagged for extra checks, this can delay the process. Frequently Asked Questions See all FAQs Need Business Support? Join Business Support Club, your one-stop shop for your business needs. Avail our startup essentials package to get your business up and running fast! Join the club for free!

Looking for a virtual office in UK? SUAZ provides a prestigious business address without the need for physical space. Start your FREE trial today. Affordable, private, and flexible virtual offices Discover virtual office addresses designed to elevate your business presence with prime locations – all for a fraction of the cost of a traditional office. Choose from flexible packages that let you choose only the features you need. No unwanted extras, just industry-leading customer support and access to valuable business resources to help your new business. Choose your virtual office address from these locations: Starts at £9.99 per month Virtual Office Manchester A strategic choice for small businesses seeking a prestigious address in one of the UK's most dynamic cities in the digital and technology industry. Explore Now Starts at £10 per month Virtual Office Birmingham Our virtual office plan in Birmingham gives you all the cool stuffyou need to make your business look amazing, for way less money. Explore Now Why Startup A-Z is your best bet for a Virtual Office? Best value for the price Starting at just £9.99+VAT a month, our feature-packed packages offer everything from a professional address to mail forwarding – all designed to supercharge your business. Impressive address with a good SEO geolocation Project a trustworthy image by associating your business with a prime location in Manchester or Birmingham. These prestigious addresses, enhanced with SEO geo-targeting, will surely impress. Business support that goes above and beyond Our business experts are ready to answer your questions, big or small. Growing a new business can be a maze, but we’re here to guide and support our community whenever we’re needed.

 Check out this complete guide on how start a business. Never miss an important mail again Get secure, digital copies of all your essential documents stored in one central location. No more misplaced files. Flexible packages Choose from flexible packages that perfectly match your current needs. Easily upgrade as your business grows. Your privacy is our priority We understand the importance of keeping your information safe. We ensure your privacy by using technology with industry-leading security. Startup A-Z adheres to all relevant data privacy regulations, including GDPR and PECR. This ensures your information is handled according to the strictest legal standards. By choosing Startup A-Z, you can rest assured that your business information is in safe hands. What clients love us What can you get from our virtual office? An all-in-one business address Secure a prestigious registered and director service address that inspires customer trust. Smooth mail handling Never miss a document again as we give you one place to store all your mail. We scan and deliver secure digital copies directly to your inbox, keeping you in the loop regardless of location. Prestigious meeting rooms Conduct impactful meetings in our top-notch meeting rooms, designed for optimal productivity and fostering collaboration. From fast internet to comfortable ergonomic chairs, you’ll surely make a lasting impression on clients and partners, Business referrals Startup A-Z goes beyond virtual offices. Our dedicated team connects you with trusted referrals for additional business services, allowing you to focus on what matters most - growing your business. Get a virtual mailing address in just 4 steps Startup A-Z simplifies getting registered and director service addresses with a quick online onboarding framework. Choose your plan Select the virtual office package that fits your business needs and head to checkout. Welcome Aboard Once verified, you'll receive immediate access to your virtual mailing address, along with instructions for a smooth business address update Simple verification We'll send you an email with your company director's AML documents for quick verification. Update and use your virtual office Effortlessly update your business address to your new, prestigious virtual office location. What we offer? Startup A-Z offers a range of virtual office packages designed to support new and small businesses. Choose the plan that best suits your needs and enjoy the benefits of a prestigious address, secure mail handling, and flexible workspace solutions. All SUAZ virtual office packages include: A Registered And Director Service Address: Establish a professional presence for your business on your website, social media, and marketing materials. Digital Mail Forwarding: Stay on top of important documents with secure electronic copies delivered straight to your inbox. Upgrade your plan for additional features: Increased Mail Forwarding: As your business grows, so do your mailing needs. Choose a package with more mail forwarding options. Meeting Room Access: Make a great impression on clients with access to our professional meeting rooms. Manchester Birmingham How do virtual offices work? Running a business can be exciting, but renting a whole office might not be in the cards just yet. A virtual office is like having a cool business address without physically renting it. Here's how it works: Pick a location: You choose a virtual office package that gives you a fancy business address. Make an impression Give your business a professional look online by showcasing your central Manchester office address. Our team can also introduce you to the right people to help you grow your business. Get mail: Instead of your home mailbox, your virtual office receives your statutory mail or even your business-related mail. We scan it and send you a copy, so you can see what you got, no matter where you are. Meet clients: With our upgraded packages, our virtual offices have cool meeting rooms you can use, perfect for impressing clients or having team meetings. Frequently asked questions Home Page Registered Office Address Start Up A-Z General Company Formation Help After Company Formation Virtual Offices Address Services Business Call Answering Documents Filing SUAZ Homepage FAQs Other Services Filing Confirmation Statement Business Support Club Partnership Director’s Service Address in Manchester Compare Packages Virtual Office Birmingham Virtual Office How can SUAZ offer company formations for free? Here at SUAZ, we believe that it shouldn’t cost you a fortune to follow your dream. We also know that starting a business isn’t cheap, which is why our company formation service is completely free - so you can keep your hard-earned cash to make your business the best it can be. Wondering how we make our money? Our upsells are bonus features that can help your business get a head start. We also introduce you to other businesses and sometimes earn a commission from doing so. When can your business be up and running? We try our best to get your business up and running as quickly as possible. Submissions sent before midday usually come back to us the same day, but this can’t be guaranteed as delays do happen. We try to get all applications back within 36 hours, but if there are issues with your application such as your company name being flagged for extra checks, this can delay the process. Frequently Asked Questions See all FAQs

Suaz respects your privacy! Learn about data collection, manage choices & how we use it for personalization. Explore Policy & understand your data rights! PRIVACY NOTICE Last updated January 04, 2023 This privacy notice for SKILLSERVE TECH LTD (doing business as Start Up A-Z ) ('Start Up A-Z ', 'we', 'us', or 'our'), describes how and why we might collect, store, use, and/or share ('process') your information when you use our services ('Services'), such as when you: Visit our website at https://www.suaz.co.uk , or any website of ours that links to this privacy notice Engage with us in other related ways, including any sales, marketing, or events Questions or concerns? Reading this privacy notice will help you understand your privacy rights and choices. If you do not agree with our policies and practices, please do not use our Services. If you still have any questions or concerns, please contact us at help@suaz.co.uk . SUMMARY OF KEY POINTS This summary provides key points from our privacy notice, but you can find out more details about any of these topics by clicking the link following each key point or by using our table of contents below to find the section you are looking for. You can also click here to go directly to our table of contents. What personal information do we process? When you visit, use, or navigate our Services, we may process personal information depending on how you interact with Start Up A-Z and the Services, the choices you make, and the products and features you use. Click here to learn more. Do we process any sensitive personal information? We do not process sensitive personal information. Do we receive any information from third parties? We do not receive any information from third parties. How do we process your information? We process your information to provide, improve, and administer our Services, communicate with you, for security and fraud prevention, and to comply with law. We may also process your information for other purposes with your consent. We process your information only when we have a valid legal reason to do so. Click here to learn more. In what situations and with which types of parties do we share personal information? We may share information in specific situations and with specific categories of third parties. Click here to learn more. How do we keep your information safe? We have organisational and technical processes and procedures in place to protect your personal information. However, no electronic transmission over the internet or information storage technology can be guaranteed to be 100% secure, so we cannot promise or guarantee that hackers, cybercriminals, or other unauthorised third parties will not be able to defeat our security and improperly collect, access, steal, or modify your information. Click here to learn more. What are your rights? Depending on where you are located geographically, the applicable privacy law may mean you have certain rights regarding your personal information. Click here to learn more. How do you exercise your rights? The easiest way to exercise your rights is by filling out our data subject request form available here, or by contacting us. We will consider and act upon any request in accordance with applicable data protection laws. Want to learn more about what Start Up A-Z does with any information we collect? Click here to review the notice in full. TABLE OF CONTENTS 1. WHAT INFORMATION DO WE COLLECT? 2. HOW DO WE PROCESS YOUR INFORMATION? 3. WHAT LEGAL BASES DO WE RELY ON TO PROCESS YOUR PERSONAL INFORMATION? 4. WHEN AND WITH WHOM DO WE SHARE YOUR PERSONAL INFORMATION? 5. DO WE USE COOKIES AND OTHER TRACKING TECHNOLOGIES? 6. HOW LONG DO WE KEEP YOUR INFORMATION? 7. HOW DO WE KEEP YOUR INFORMATION SAFE? 8. DO WE COLLECT INFORMATION FROM MINORS? 9. WHAT ARE YOUR PRIVACY RIGHTS? 10. CONTROLS FOR DO-NOT-TRACK FEATURES 11. DO CALIFORNIA RESIDENTS HAVE SPECIFIC PRIVACY RIGHTS? 12. DO WE MAKE UPDATES TO THIS NOTICE? 13. HOW CAN YOU CONTACT US ABOUT THIS NOTICE? 14. HOW CAN YOU REVIEW, UPDATE, OR DELETE THE DATA WE COLLECT FROM YOU? 1. WHAT INFORMATION DO WE COLLECT? Personal information you disclose to us In Short: We collect personal information that you provide to us. We collect personal information that you voluntarily provide to us when you express an interest in obtaining information about us or our products and Services, when you participate in activities on the Services, or otherwise when you contact us. Personal Information Provided by You. The personal information that we collect depends on the context of your interactions with us and the Services, the choices you make, and the products and features you use. The personal information we collect may include the following: contact preferences contact or authentication data email addresses names Sensitive Information. We do not process sensitive information. All personal information that you provide to us must be true, complete, and accurate, and you must notify us of any changes to such personal information. Information automatically collected In Short: Some information — such as your Internet Protocol (IP) address and/or browser and device characteristics — is collected automatically when you visit our Services. We automatically collect certain information when you visit, use, or navigate the Services. This information does not reveal your specific identity (like your name or contact information) but may include device and usage information, such as your IP address, browser and device characteristics, operating system, language preferences, referring URLs, device name, country, location, information about how and when you use our Services, and other technical information. This information is primarily needed to maintain the security and operation of our Services, and for our internal analytics and reporting purposes. Like many businesses, we also collect information through cookies and similar technologies. You can find out more about this in our Cookie Notice: https://app.termly.io/document/cookie-policy/0aafeee2-66a4-40b2-9b13-fda9377dfe78 . The information we collect includes: Log and Usage Data. Log and usage data is service-related, diagnostic, usage, and performance information our servers automatically collect when you access or use our Services and which we record in log files. Depending on how you interact with us, this log data may include your IP address, device information, browser type, and settings and information about your activity in the Services (such as the date/time stamps associated with your usage, pages and files viewed, searches, and other actions you take such as which features you use), device event information (such as system activity, error reports (sometimes called 'crash dumps'), and hardware settings). Device Data. We collect device data such as information about your computer, phone, tablet, or other device you use to access the Services. Depending on the device used, this device data may include information such as your IP address (or proxy server), device and application identification numbers, location, browser type, hardware model, Internet service provider and/or mobile carrier, operating system, and system configuration information. Location Data. We collect location data such as information about your device's location, which can be either precise or imprecise. How much information we collect depends on the type and settings of the device you use to access the Services. For example, we may use GPS and other technologies to collect geolocation data that tells us your current location (based on your IP address). You can opt out of allowing us to collect this information either by refusing access to the information or by disabling your Location setting on your device. However, if you choose to opt out, you may not be able to use certain aspects of the Services. 2. HOW DO WE PROCESS YOUR INFORMATION? In Short: We process your information to provide, improve, and administer our Services, communicate with you, for security and fraud prevention, and to comply with law. We may also process your information for other purposes with your consent. We process your personal information for a variety of reasons, depending on how you interact with our Services, including: To deliver and facilitate delivery of services to the user. We may process your information to provide you with the requested service. To respond to user inquiries/offer support to users. We may process your information to respond to your inquiries and solve any potential issues you might have with the requested service. To send administrative information to you. We may process your information to send you details about our products and services, changes to our terms and policies, and other similar information. To fulfil and manage your orders. We may process your information to fulfil and manage your orders, payments, returns, and exchanges made through the Services. To request feedback. We may process your information when necessary to request feedback and to contact you about your use of our Services. To send you marketing and promotional communications. We may process the personal information you send to us for our marketing purposes, if this is in accordance with your marketing preferences. You can opt out of our marketing emails at any time. For more information, see 'WHAT ARE YOUR PRIVACY RIGHTS? ' below). To protect our Services. We may process your information as part of our efforts to keep our Services safe and secure, including fraud monitoring and prevention. To determine the effectiveness of our marketing and promotional campaigns. We may process your information to better understand how to provide marketing and promotional campaigns that are most relevant to you. To save or protect an individual's vital interest. We may process your information when necessary to save or protect an individual’s vital interest, such as to prevent harm. 3. WHAT LEGAL BASES DO WE RELY ON TO PROCESS YOUR INFORMATION? In Short: We only process your personal information when we believe it is necessary and we have a valid legal reason (i.e. legal basis) to do so under applicable law, like with your consent, to comply with laws, to provide you with services to enter into or fulfil our contractual obligations, to protect your rights, or to fulfil our legitimate business interests. The General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and UK GDPR require us to explain the valid legal bases we rely on in order to process your personal information. As such, we may rely on the following legal bases to process your personal information: Consent. We may process your information if you have given us permission (i.e. consent) to use your personal information for a specific purpose. You can withdraw your consent at any time. Click here to learn more. Performance of a Contract. We may process your personal information when we believe it is necessary to fulfil our contractual obligations to you, including providing our Services or at your request prior to entering into a contract with you. Legitimate Interests. We may process your information when we believe it is reasonably necessary to achieve our legitimate business interests and those interests do not outweigh your interests and fundamental rights and freedoms. For example, we may process your personal information for some of the purposes described in order to: Send users information about special offers and discounts on our products and services Support our marketing activities Diagnose problems and/or prevent fraudulent activities Understand how our users use our products and services so we can improve user experience Legal Obligations. We may process your information where we believe it is necessary for compliance with our legal obligations, such as to cooperate with a law enforcement body or regulatory agency, exercise or defend our legal rights, or disclose your information as evidence in litigation in which we are involved. Vital Interests. We may process your information where we believe it is necessary to protect your vital interests or the vital interests of a third party, such as situations involving potential threats to the safety of any person. In legal terms, we are generally the 'data controller' under European data protection laws of the personal information described in this privacy notice, since we determine the means and/or purposes of the data processing we perform. This privacy notice does not apply to the personal information we process as a 'data processor' on behalf of our customers. In those situations, the customer that we provide services to and with whom we have entered into a data processing agreement is the 'data controller' responsible for your personal information, and we merely process your information on their behalf in accordance with your instructions. If you want to know more about our customers' privacy practices, you should read their privacy policies and direct any questions you have to them. 4. WHEN AND WITH WHOM DO WE SHARE YOUR PERSONAL INFORMATION? In Short: We may share information in specific situations described in this section and/or with the following categories of third parties. Vendors, Consultants, and Other Third-Party Service Providers. We may share your data with third-party vendors, service providers, contractors, or agents ('third parties') who perform services for us or on our behalf and require access to such information to do that work. We have contracts in place with our third parties, which are designed to help safeguard your personal information. This means that they cannot do anything with your personal information unless we have instructed them to do it. They will also not share your personal information with any organisation apart from us. They also commit to protect the data they hold on our behalf and to retain it for the period we instruct. The categories of third parties we may share personal information with are as follows: Ad Networks Data Analytics Services Data Storage Service Providers Government Entities Order Fulfilment Service Providers Payment Processors Testing Tools User Account Registration & Authentication Services We also may need to share your personal information in the following situations: Business Transfers. We may share or transfer your information in connection with, or during negotiations of, any merger, sale of company assets, financing, or acquisition of all or a portion of our business to another company. Affiliates. We may share your information with our affiliates, in which case we will require those affiliates to honour this privacy notice. Affiliates include our parent company and any subsidiaries, joint venture partners, or other companies that we control or that are under common control with us. Business Partners. We may share your information with our business partners to offer you certain products, services, or promotions. 5. DO WE USE COOKIES AND OTHER TRACKING TECHNOLOGIES? In Short: We may use cookies and other tracking technologies to collect and store your information. We may use cookies and similar tracking technologies (like web beacons and pixels) to access or store information. Specific information about how we use such technologies and how you can refuse certain cookies is set out in our Cookie Notice: https://app.termly.io/document/cookie-policy/0aafeee2-66a4-40b2-9b13-fda9377dfe78 . 6. HOW LONG DO WE KEEP YOUR INFORMATION? In Short: We keep your information for as long as necessary to fulfil the purposes outlined in this privacy notice unless otherwise required by law. We will only keep your personal information for as long as it is necessary for the purposes set out in this privacy notice, unless a longer retention period is required or permitted by law (such as tax, accounting, or other legal requirements). When we have no ongoing legitimate business need to process your personal information, we will either delete or anonymise such information, or, if this is not possible (for example, because your personal information has been stored in backup archives), then we will securely store your personal information and isolate it from any further processing until deletion is possible. 7. HOW DO WE KEEP YOUR INFORMATION SAFE? In Short: We aim to protect your personal information through a system of organisational and technical security measures. We have implemented appropriate and reasonable technical and organisational security measures designed to protect the security of any personal information we process. However, despite our safeguards and efforts to secure your information, no electronic transmission over the Internet or information storage technology can be guaranteed to be 100% secure, so we cannot promise or guarantee that hackers, cybercriminals, or other unauthorised third parties will not be able to defeat our security and improperly collect, access, steal, or modify your information. Although we will do our best to protect your personal information, transmission of personal information to and from our Services is at your own risk. You should only access the Services within a secure environment. 8. DO WE COLLECT INFORMATION FROM MINORS? In Short: We do not knowingly collect data from or market to children under 18 years of age. We do not knowingly solicit data from or market to children under 18 years of age. By using the Services, you represent that you are at least 18 or that you are the parent or guardian of such a minor and consent to such minor dependent’s use of the Services. If we learn that personal information from users less than 18 years of age has been collected, we will deactivate the account and take reasonable measures to promptly delete such data from our records. If you become aware of any data we may have collected from children under age 18, please contact us at help@suaz.co.uk . 9. WHAT ARE YOUR PRIVACY RIGHTS? In Short: In some regions, such as the European Economic Area (EEA) and United Kingdom (UK), you have rights that allow you greater access to and control over your personal information. You may review, change, or terminate your account at any time. In some regions (like the EEA and UK), you have certain rights under applicable data protection laws. These may include the right (i) to request access and obtain a copy of your personal information, (ii) to request rectification or erasure; (iii) to restrict the processing of your personal information; and (iv) if applicable, to data portability. In certain circumstances, you may also have the right to object to the processing of your personal information. You can make such a request by contacting us by using the contact details provided in the section 'HOW CAN YOU CONTACT US ABOUT THIS NOTICE? ' below. We will consider and act upon any request in accordance with applicable data protection laws. If you are located in the EEA or UK and you believe we are unlawfully processing your personal information, you also have the right to complain to your local data protection supervisory authority. You can find their contact details here: https://ec.europa.eu/justice/data-protection/bodies/authorities/index_en.htm . If you are located in Switzerland, the contact details for the data protection authorities are available here: https://www.edoeb.admin.ch/edoeb/en/home.html . Withdrawing your consent: If we are relying on your consent to process your personal information, you have the right to withdraw your consent at any time. You can withdraw your consent at any time by contacting us by using the contact details provided in the section 'HOW CAN YOU CONTACT US ABOUT THIS NOTICE? ' below. However, please note that this will not affect the lawfulness of the processing before its withdrawal nor, will it affect the processing of your personal information conducted in reliance on lawful processing grounds other than consent. Opting out of marketing and promotional communications: You can unsubscribe from our marketing and promotional communications at any time by clicking on the unsubscribe link in the emails that we send, or by contacting us using the details provided in the section 'HOW CAN YOU CONTACT US ABOUT THIS NOTICE? ' below. You will then be removed from the marketing lists. However, we may still communicate with you — for example, to send you service-related messages that are necessary for the administration and use of your account, to respond to service requests, or for other non-marketing purposes. Cookies and similar technologies: Most Web browsers are set to accept cookies by default. If you prefer, you can usually choose to set your browser to remove cookies and to reject cookies. If you choose to remove cookies or reject cookies, this could affect certain features or services of our Services. To opt out of interest-based advertising by advertisers on our Services visit http://www.aboutads.info/choices/ . For further information, please see our Cookie Notice: https://app.termly.io/document/cookie-policy/0aafeee2-66a4-40b2-9b13-fda9377dfe78 . 10. CONTROLS FOR DO-NOT-TRACK FEATURES Most web browsers and some mobile operating systems and mobile applications include a Do-Not-Track ('DNT') feature or setting you can activate to signal your privacy preference not to have data about your online browsing activities monitored and collected. At this stage no uniform technology standard for recognising and implementing DNT signals has been finalised. As such, we do not currently respond to DNT browser signals or any other mechanism that automatically communicates your choice not to be tracked online. If a standard for online tracking is adopted that we must follow in the future, we will inform you about that practice in a revised version of this privacy notice. 11. DO CALIFORNIA RESIDENTS HAVE SPECIFIC PRIVACY RIGHTS? In Short: Yes, if you are a resident of California, you are granted specific rights regarding access to your personal information. California Civil Code Section 1798.83, also known as the 'Shine The Light' law, permits our users who are California residents to request and obtain from us, once a year and free of charge, information about categories of personal information (if any) we disclosed to third parties for direct marketing purposes and the names and addresses of all third parties with which we shared personal information in the immediately preceding calendar year. If you are a California resident and would like to make such a request, please submit your request in writing to us using the contact information provided below. If you are under 18 years of age, reside in California, and have a registered account with Services, you have the right to request removal of unwanted data that you publicly post on the Services. To request removal of such data, please contact us using the contact information provided below and include the email address associated with your account and a statement that you reside in California. We will make sure the data is not publicly displayed on the Services, but please be aware that the data may not be completely or comprehensively removed from all our systems (e.g. backups, etc.). 12. DO WE MAKE UPDATES TO THIS NOTICE? In Short: Yes, we will update this notice as necessary to stay compliant with relevant laws. We may update this privacy notice from time to time. The updated version will be indicated by an updated 'Revised' date and the updated version will be effective as soon as it is accessible. If we make material changes to this privacy notice, we may notify you either by prominently posting a notice of such changes or by directly sending you a notification. We encourage you to review this privacy notice frequently to be informed of how we are protecting your information. 13. HOW CAN YOU CONTACT US ABOUT THIS NOTICE? If you have questions or comments about this notice, you may email us at help@suaz.co.uk or by post to: SKILLSERVE TECH LTD Bartle House Manchester, Greater Manchester M23WQ England If you are a resident in the United Kingdom, the 'data controller' of your personal information is SKILLSERVE TECH LTD. SKILLSERVE TECH LTD has appointed Paul Dominic O Toole to be its representative in the UK. You can contact them directly regarding the processing of your information by SKILLSERVE TECH LTD, by email at paul@businesssupportclub.com , by visiting http://www.skillserve-tech.co.uk , by phone at 0330 320 1929, or by post to: Bartle House Ocford Court Manchester, Greater Manchester M23WQ England 14. HOW CAN YOU REVIEW, UPDATE, OR DELETE THE DATA WE COLLECT FROM YOU? Based on the applicable laws of your country, you may have the right to request access to the personal information we collect from you, change that information, or delete it. To request to review, update, or delete your personal information, please submit a request form by clicking here.