New business expenses but no earnings yet

Hi, I have set up a website and have also started writing a book. I have some expenses relating to this but have so far not received any income from this. Do I need to register as self-employed yet, and if not when should I? Also, when can I claim for these expenses does it have to be once I start earning money from it or can I do it now? It's not made clear on the self-assessment return.

Hi Rachel Thatcher,

You will need to register for self assessmet for the tax year that you commence trading as self employed.  
Any expenses incurred prior to commencement of trading, can only be carried forward and claimed in the tax year that you commence trading.  
You can register for self employment at Register for Self Assessment.

Thank you.

 

Same energy man!