> ## Knowledge Base Index
> Fetch the complete knowledge base index at: https://helpdesk.onestaff.eu/sitemap.xml
> Use this file to discover available pages before exploring further.
> Pure-Markdown content can be obtained by appending a '.md' suffix to the content URLs listed in the sitemap (without the trailing slash).

# How soon do I need to register as a sole trader?

Register as soon as you can after starting your business.

At the latest, you should register by the 5th of October in your business’s second tax year. For example, if you start working as a sole trader between April 2020 to April 2021, you should register before 5 October 2021.

 If you register later than this, you won’t get a penalty as long as you send your Self Assessment tax return and pay your bill on time.