I have worked as a web developer for various companies in north east of the UK for nine years.

I’ve always considered going freelance but I’d always been concerned about sustaining consistent work on a full time basis.

Then one day I’d rcieved a call from my manager that the company I was working at was going to cease operating at the end of the next month.

So then I had two choices; I could either look for a full time job again, or instead take the chance and to do freelancing and work for myself instead.

In hindsight I’m much happier, not tied to 9-5 working hours and enjoy the wider variety of work.

Income

It’s incredibly satisfying doing your end-of-year accounts and seeing you’ve had a successful year. Just make sure to calculate how much tax and national insurance you’ll owe.

Id reccoment to save one third of your income to put aside for taxes and national insurance. If you need an estimate of I’d suggest visiting Listentotaxman Although I haven’t done this for my first year; lots of things you can write off a tax-deductable. Things like online learning platforms, hosting and domain name payments, and portions of your rent and utility bills if you work from home can all be taken of the amount you pay tax on.

Will I return To Full Time Employment?

Will I go back to full time employment? It would have to be a really interesting position. As I say, I’m happy being freelance and enjoying the work and working for myself more than when I was in full time employment.

On a Final Note

I’m not sure how to end this post, but if you’ve recently went freelance I’d like to know your experiences too. And if you’re thinking about going freelance, then all I can suggest is go for it!