Thinking of starting your own business or becoming self-employed? Whether you're launching a side hustle, freelancing, or setting up a limited company, taking the right first steps can make all the difference. This complete guide explains what to do, when to do it, and how to stay compliant — without the jargon.

In this guide, we’ll explain what your UTR number is, when you’ll need it, and most importantly — where to find it. We'll also cover what to do if you've lost it and how to keep it secure.