United Kingdom
- Structure: most people start as a sole trader or a private limited company.
- Register: sole traders register with HMRC for Self Assessment; limited companies register with Companies House.
- Trading allowance: you can earn up to £1,000 a tax year from self-employment tax-free (records still needed).
- VAT: you must register if your VAT-taxable turnover goes over £90,000 in a 12-month period.
- Licences: use the GOV.UK licence finder.
Sources: GOV.UK: set up a business · Register as a sole trader · VAT registration · Tax-free trading allowance
Canada
- Structure: sole proprietorship, partnership or corporation.
- Register: rules depend on your province or territory; corporations can incorporate federally or provincially.
- Business Number: a 9-digit number from the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) used for tax accounts.
- GST/HST: most businesses must register once taxable revenue goes over $30,000 in a single calendar quarter or over four consecutive quarters (the small supplier limit). Ride-sharing drivers must register from their first ride.
Sources: CRA: register for a Business Number · CRA: when to register for GST/HST
Australia
- Structure: sole trader, partnership, company or trust.
- ABN: apply for an Australian Business Number free through the Australian Business Register.
- Business name: register it with ASIC if you trade under a name other than your own.
- GST: you must register when your GST turnover is $75,000 or more; ride-sourcing drivers must register before their first trip regardless of income.
Sources: business.gov.au: registrations · ATO: registering for GST
Everywhere else
Search for your national government’s “start a business” page and your tax authority’s guidance on registering for income tax and VAT or GST. Rules change, so rely on official sources rather than blog posts, including this one.
Same tools, any currency
All our calculators work in USD, GBP, EUR, CAD, AUD or NZD: pick your currency at the top of each tool. The launch checklist switches its official links when you change country.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to register as a sole trader in the UK?
You must register for Self Assessment if your self-employment income is over the £1,000 trading allowance in a tax year (there are other reasons to register too, such as claiming certain benefits). Check GOV.UK for your situation.
Is an ABN free in Australia?
Yes, applying for an ABN through the Australian Business Register is free.
When do I charge GST/HST in Canada?
Once you are registered, or must be. Most businesses must register when taxable revenue goes over $30,000 in a calendar quarter or over four consecutive quarters.
Last reviewed: October 2026. General information only — check providers' official sites for current features and pricing.