HMRC has launched a fresh summer campaign reminding people with “side hustles” that extra income may need to be reported for tax purposes. The announcement specifically highlights people earning income from wedding services, online selling, content creation, freelancing and similar activities.

The key figure remains the £1,000 trading allowance. If total income from side activities exceeds £1,000 during the tax year, there may be an obligation to register for Self Assessment and declare the income to HMRC.

This is particularly relevant because HMRC now receives increasing amounts of information from digital platforms. Data from marketplaces and gig economy platforms can be matched against tax returns, making it easier for HMRC to identify undeclared income.

Importantly, not everyone selling online has a tax problem. Selling unwanted personal possessions is generally not taxable. However, regularly buying or making goods to sell, or providing services for payment, is likely to be treated as trading.

If you have a side hustle, you should:

  • Review any additional income streams.
  • Check whether total trading income exceeds £1,000.
  • Register for Self Assessment if required.
  • Keep proper records from the outset rather than trying to reconstruct them later.

Early disclosure is almost always easier and cheaper than dealing with an HMRC enquiry.