HMRC has introduced new rules requiring popular online platforms to disclose income earned by UK individuals. The changes affect those earning money on sites like eBay, Amazon, Etsy, Fiverr, Upwork, Uber, Deliveroo, and more. With the updates taking effect in January 2024, HMRC aims to ensure taxes are paid on gig economy earnings. The tax authority warns it will pursue those not declaring side hustle incomes.

 

Defining the Gig Economy

The gig economy refers to freelance or ad hoc work organized via websites and apps. People trade skills and time to provide paid services to clients. HMRC notes that over 500,000 individuals in the UK participate in the gig economy.

 

New Guidance Directly Targets Gig Workers

HMRC published guidance explicitly focusing on those earning income selling products, services, and freelance work on major platforms. The listed sites include Amazon, Airbnb, eBay, Uber, Deliveroo, Etsy, Vinted, Fiverr, and Upwork. The tax authority has ordered these sites to record and submit user income details to HMRC starting January 2024. The goal is to reduce tax evasion by guaranteeing taxes get paid on gig earnings.

 

£36 Million Investment to Enforce Compliance

HMRC has dedicated over £36 million towards gig economy tax obligations to enforce Compliance. With user incomes now reportable, failing to declare taxes carries substantial risks of penalties and prosecution.

 

£1,000 Trading Allowance Before Tax Kicks In

UK residents have a £12,570 personal allowance before paying income tax. Those earning extra from side hustles also receive a separate £1,000 trading allowance. If gig income exceeds £1,000 annually, tax and national insurance contributions apply. However, you can exclude selling personal items worth under £1,000.

 

Understanding New Gig Worker Tax Rules

The critical impact is that HMRC can cross-reference user incomes submitted by platforms against tax returns. Obvious reporting discrepancies make investigations and penalties likely.

You must also declare gig money flowing through bank accounts. With multiple income sources visible, it becomes possible to avoid hiding cash.



Is My Gig Income Taxable?

If gig work earns regular, profitable income over time, it requires reporting. Depending on other earnings, this may mean paying tax if above allowances. One-off jobs may count as taxable miscellaneous income. The self-employed must handle their national insurance and income tax filings via self-assessment tax return. Keeping accurate records is essential to verify details if HMRC investigates.

 

Get Expert Help Understanding Obligations

It is important to seek professional advice due to the constantly changing tax regulations and the HMRC scrutinizing gig jobs. Our tax consultants specialize in navigating tax laws across various income sources.

 

Don't Ignore Past Years

HMRC can review up to 20 prior years for suspected evasion if investigated. With new transparency rules, now is the time to address historical gig income obligations.

 

Ensuring Compliance is Vital

Meeting legal tax duties is an individual responsibility. Non-compliance can trigger substantial fines, tax probes, and potential prosecution. With expertise, you can guarantee side hustle conformity and income security. The key is acting promptly before facing an audit or penalties. Specialist guidance makes achieving gig income compliance straightforward.