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Private tutors: DBS, paperwork and tax

Guides for self-employed tutors. Since January 2026 you can apply for your own enhanced DBS check, and Making Tax Digital is coming for more sole traders each April. Here’s what each means for you.

Based on DBS and HMRC guidance on GOV.UK, last checked 26 October 2026 · General information, not legal or tax advice

£41enhanced DBS check fee from October 2026
£1,000trading allowance for small tutoring income
£30kincome: Making Tax Digital from April 2027

Guides

DBS checks for self-employed tutors

The 2026 route: who can get an enhanced check with the barred list, how to apply through an umbrella body, the new fees and the Update Service.

Making Tax Digital for sole traders

Who’s in from April 2026, 2027 and 2028, and what you’ll need to do each quarter.

Templates

Private Tutor Business Workbook
Private Tutor Business Workbook

Log each lesson and the fee is worked out. See who owes you, keep DBS and insurance dates in view, and get quarterly totals and a tax estimate that includes any teaching salary, in one Excel and Google Sheets file.

See the workbook on Etsy
Tutor Forms Pack
Tutor Forms Pack

Editable tutoring terms and conditions with cancellation and safeguarding sections, a student intake and consent form, a progress report and an invoice, in Word and PDF.

See the forms on Etsy

Official sources