Do I need to register as self employed?
If you become newly self employed you should register for self assessment with HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) and tell them that you are now self employed. This can be done online via HMRC's online services (link opens in a new window). This information will not automatically be passed on to the Tax Credit office or any other agency for the purposes of working out what benefits may be available to you.
There is no single registration process when it comes to self employment and benefits.
If you are already receiving benefits, becoming self employed will usually count as a change of circumstances and you should inform the relevant agencies as soon as possible.
If you are making new claims, you will do so as a self employed person and will provide the relevant information during the claim process.