Deleted user
posted 3 years ago
Can a minor be “self-employed?”
I would like to sell web design services, however, I don't know where to begin with the legal details. Is there anything that I have to look out for? Do I have to pay taxes? I am 17 years old.
Country
  • United Kingdom
Fields:
  • Employment
Share

Answer this Post

Login into your account and answer this post

Contribute Now
Deleted user
posted 3 years ago
As a minor, you have to concern about some point: First, there is no rigid law that prohibits minor from self_employed, but there are some restrictions for child employment according to GOV.UK. , that you have to pay attention to them; Children are not allowed to work: -without an employment permit issued by the education department of the local council if this is required by local bylaws -in places like a factory or industrial site - during school hours - before 7 am or after 7 pm - for more than one hour before school (unless local bylaws allow it) - for more than 4 hours without taking a break of at least 1 hour - in any work that may be harmful to their health, well-being or education - without having a 2-week break from any work during the school holidays in each calendar year. Second, a minor is someone under the age of 18 years according to a definition under the Births and Deaths Registration Amendment Act (No 1 of 2002). Additionally, The law presumes that some people do not have the power to make contracts. These people are: (i) children under 7 years(ii) people who are mentally insane (iii) people who are under the influence of drugs or alcohol. A minor can, therefore, enter into a contract. However, the law also assumes that a minor cannot understand the implications of a contract. So, whatever caveat is drafted into the contract, he or she will remain protected to the disadvantage of the other party. Further, a contract with a minor is voidable. That means he or she can cancel any contract at any time before reaching the age of 18 and for a reasonable period after that time. There is no requirement for him or her to have a justifiable reason. Problems arise unexpectedly. A child cannot get a credit card in his name, but he could borrow or steal one. You may be unable to enforce a contract on a borrowed card unless you could prove that it was a term of the agreement that the person was over 18 years old. The sale of goods on a stolen card would be void from the outset. Finally, children aged under 18 can earn up to the tax-free allowance in each tax year (£12,500 in 2020/2021) and pay no income tax. This is the maximum income that can be earned tax-free during each tax year and will include earnings from all sources subject to income tax and National Insurance.