Benefit entitlements for Self employed people

[KAZ]

If someone is Self emplyed but does not earn very much money are they entitled to claim any benefits? (Married person with no dependants) Starting a new business is always difficult, What help is available for them, if any? Thanks.

[chrisrob]

The answer as always isn't straight forward. I believe in general terms the answer is that self employed people are eligible to benefits such as working tax credit.
As regards starting a new business, depending upon previous employment status, other benefit packages may be available.
The following pages may help:
http://www.adviceguide.org.uk/index/life/benef its/benefits_and_tax_credits_for_people_in_wor k.htm and the Inland Revenue have an on-line questionnaire with which you should be able to assess your eligibility at http://www.hmrc.gov.uk/taxcredits/do-you-quali fy.htm
Good Luck.