Self-Employment for Online Consulting: A Complete Guide to Registration
Self-employment is the simplest and most affordable way to legally provide online consulting services in your country. Registration takes 10 minutes, taxes start from 4%, and no declarations are required. However, there are nuances that are important to know before you start.
This guide contains everything an expert needs to know about self-employment: from registration to when it's worth switching to a sole proprietorship.
What is self-employment and who is it for
Self-employment (professional income tax, PIT) is a special tax regime for individuals providing services without hired employees. It is valid throughout your country.
- Consulting psychologists
- Coaches and mentors
- Tutors
- Legal consultants
- Nutritionists
- Business consultants
- Marketers and SMM specialists
How to register as self-employed
Registration is available in three ways: through the “My Tax” app (iOS/Android), through the Public Services portal, or through a partner bank (Sber, Tinkoff, and others).
- Download the “My Tax” app
- Log in through Public Services or using your TIN + passport
- Select your region of activity
- Confirm registration – done
The entire process takes 5–10 minutes. Self-employed status is activated instantly.
Self-employment taxes and limits
4% – when working with individuals. 6% – when working with legal entities and sole proprietors. Income limit – $24,000 per year (approximately $2,000 per month on average).
Tax bonus – $100, which is automatically applied and reduces the rate to 3% (individuals) and 4% (legal entities) until the bonus is exhausted.
How to issue receipts to clients
After each payment, a self-employed individual is obliged to issue a receipt through the “My Tax” app. This is done with a couple of taps: you enter the amount, a description of the service, and send the receipt to the client.
On platforms like Geniuz.io, the process is simplified – the system can remind you to issue a receipt after each paid session.
Self-employment restrictions for consultants
- Cannot hire employees
- Income limit of $24,000/year
- Cannot provide medical services (but consulting is not medicine)
- No contributions to the pension fund (can be done voluntarily)
When to switch to a sole proprietorship
Switch to a sole proprietorship when: your income approaches the $24,000/year limit, you need an assistant, or you want to work with large corporate clients.
The transition is not mandatory – many experts work as self-employed for years. A sole proprietorship makes sense with a stable income above $1,500–$2,000 per month.
Start consulting legally today. Geniuz.io supports self-employed individuals and sole proprietors – payments, receipts, and scheduling all in one place.
Create Page →Frequently asked questions
Can I be self-employed and work under an employment contract?
Yes, you can combine them. Self-employment is for part-time work outside your main job. You cannot provide services to your current employer as a self-employed individual.
Is a cash register needed for self-employed individuals?
No. Receipts are generated free of charge in the “My Tax” app. No cash registers are required.
What happens if I exceed the income limit?
Self-employed status is canceled. Income above the limit is subject to a 13% personal income tax. It is recommended to switch to a sole proprietorship in advance when approaching the limit.
Can a self-employed person accept payment from abroad?
From individuals – yes. From foreign legal entities – no, such income does not fall under PIT.