Freelancing

[Juan Preuyt]

Hi there ive been wanting to know this for while. I am basically a freelancer acting as a design agency , i have limited knowledge of being an actual business owner . My freelance website has really picked up alot and i feel i want to move into that legitimate ( small business ) area.

Like i said however i know nothing of business , where does one start , where do you learn , what do you even google , because google is full of tips for existing entrepreneurs but what about somebody who is just a web designer and want to move into that field. Is there a set of rules or is it something that you have to feel your way around

 

[^^vampire^^]

From my own experience. Pick up some some freelancing jobs and gauge your average income. Most people will recommend starting a company etc etc but I would advise against that until you are comfortable with the amount you are getting in each month.

You need to gauge if it will be cheaper tax wise to add this additional amount onto your current salary or to go through a business structure. You would need to be pulling in a fair whack before going the company route anyway.

Once you get the point of needing a business, you can register online with CIPC. Remember that when owning a business you need to keep accurate financial records of everything coming in and out, you may require an accountant to look over these figures and help you with tax as well as get your figures audited from time to time. There is a lot that goes into running a business so make sure it's worth it to transition over.

Please for the love of god don't go open a business straight away and get a business bank account etc etc. So many people start clearing R1000 a month and go do this then lose what little they make to their monthly bank fees and paying business tax, accountant fees and other business costs.

 

[biometrics]

You can start as a Sole Proprietor, requires no registration.