Checklist for Self-Employed Carers

June 09, 2025

Kalon Robson

1 Min Read

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Introduction
Step by Step
You're All Set

Welcome to your step-by-step guide on becoming a self-employed carer! This is a brief guide on what you might need to do to start your journey as a self-employed carer.

For a more detailed insight, download the full guide below. This guide is designed to help you understand and navigate the process, offering practical tips and resources to get you started smoothly.

Step by Step Guide

Finding Clients, Marketing and Branding: Marketing yourself is a key step, in creating your own visibility. Personal branding is highly encouraged as a way of getting your name out there in a memorable and eye-catching way.
Register as Self-Employed: Register with HMRC: Sign up as a sole trader online through HMRC. This process is straightforward and will give you a Unique Taxpayer Reference (UTR) number.
Securing Insurance: Public liability insurance is crucial. It covers potential accidents and damages that might occur during your care work.
DBS Checks: Check your status. Ensure your DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) check is up-to-date and on the Update Service. If it’s not, you might need to apply for a new one.
Managing Income, Taxes and Expenditure: Set up your finances, and plan ahead for taxes. It is vital to track each of your expenses, which can be done through the PocketCarer app.
Managing Paperwork, Contracts and Data Compliance: Stay organised by keeping client records, draft contracts and all invoices. This can all done through your PocketCarer app. It is important to keep sensitive details in line with GDPR for this.
Business Support and Resources: Find the support network you need. You can look into local business enterprises or support networks like NACAS. Additional resources like a Blue Sky Card will also give you carer recognition.
Training and Professional Development: Stay up to date with training and professional development. There are numerous resources out there that provide reasonably priced e-learning to keep you on track. Check with your insurance provider about any specific training requirements you may need as part of your policy.
Pricing and Setting Rates: Research local market rates to set competitive prices. Search for businesses in your area to see what they charge per hour. When setting your rates, make sure to cover all your business expenses, including tax, National Insurance, insurance, DBS checks, training, work clothing, memberships, and software costs.
Providing Client Cover: Before signing a contract, have a conversation with your client or their family about who will be responsible if you cannot attend a shift. Options might include family members stepping in, recommending another carer, or using a care agency for backup.