How to Go Self-Employed as a Nail Tech

Making the leap into self-employment as a nail tech is an exciting step, but we know it can feel overwhelming if you’re unsure where to begin. At HONA, we’re here to help you start strong. Dive into our guide to ensure your business is set up for success and that you’ve got all the essential foundations in place.

Find the Right Course for You (If You’re Not Qualified Yet)

If you’re just starting out and haven’t completed a qualification yet, your first step is to find a course that fits your goals and needs Whether you’re interested in mastering hard Gel or want to a full nail tech qualification, make sure you choose an accredited course. It’s the best way to ensure you’re learning the skills and techniques that meet industry standards.

When choosing the right course for you consider factors such as 

• Do you want the experience of an in person course 
• Would an online course option be better for you? 
• Which brand should I choose to train with? 

1. Register with HMRC as Self-Employed

Now that you're qualified the first step to becoming a self-employed nail tech is registering with HMRC. This will allow you to pay your taxes and file your self-assessment tax returns each year. It's a simple process that you can complete online, and once registered, you'll be able to manage your taxes with ease. Be sure to keep track of deadlines and read up on self-assessment so you’re fully prepared. You can find out more with our HONA Self-Assessment Tax Guide.

2. Set Up a Separate Business Bank Account

Consider setting up a separate bank account for your business! This simple step will help you keep your finances organised and make managing them much easier. By separating your personal and business funds, you can track your income and expenses more effectively, which makes tax returns a breeze. It’s a small change that can have a big impact on staying professional and ensuring your business runs smoothly.

3. Get Insurance: Protect Yourself and Your Clients

As a self-employed nail tech, ensuring you and your clients are protected is a must. Insurance isn’t just a precaution, it’s essential. Here are two key types of insurance to consider:

• Public Liability Insurance: This covers you if something goes wrong during an appointment, such as a client getting injured or damaging property.

• Professional Indemnity Insurance: This protects you if there’s a mistake in your services, such as a nail treatment going wrong or causing an allergic reaction.

It’s always better to be safe than sorry, so don’t delay in getting covered. Make sure you’re fully insured from day one!

4. Set Up a Private Pension: Plan for Your Future

You may be focused on your business now, but don’t forget about your future! Being self-employed means you’re responsible for your own retirement savings. Setting up a private pension is a smart way to ensure your financial future. The earlier you start, the more you’ll benefit in the long run. A financial advisor can help you find the best option for your needs, so it’s worth getting one set up sooner rather than later.

5. Set Up Social Media / Nail Tech Branding

In today’s world, a strong online presence is everything. Setting up professional social media accounts is a great way to showcase your skills and attract clients. Focus on platforms like Instagram and TikTok, where nail art shines. Post regularly, share your work, and engage with your followers to build a community. At the same time, think about your brand identity. What sets you apart as a nail tech? Whether you’re chic, bold, or playful, your branding should reflect your personality and style.

Want to nail your branding? Our Business Mastery session with Sugar Branded is packed with actionable tips – Read Here 

6. Network and Build Relationships

Building a strong network within the nail tech community and with your clients is vital. Attend local nail tech events, join online forums, and connect with others in your area. You never know when a new opportunity or collaboration will come your way. Building strong relationships with your clients will also keep them coming back for your services and help spread the word about your business.

• Attend industry events – Trade shows, training days, and community meetups are great for meeting other techs and staying inspired.

• Join online communities – Facebook groups, Instagram Lives, and TikTok communities are buzzing with nail techs sharing advice, ideas, and opportunities.

• Be active, not passive – Don’t just scroll! comment, share, and cheer others on. Genuine engagement builds real connections.

• Support local businesses – Collaborate with nearby beauty professionals like hairdressers or makeup artists to cross-promote services.

• Ask clients for referrals – Happy clients are often your best promoters. Offer a small incentive for any referrals they send your way.

7. Set Your Pricing and Create a Business Plan

As a self-employed nail tech, it's important to set clear, competitive prices for your services. Research what other local nail techs are charging and consider your level of experience, overhead costs, and your unique offering. Creating a business plan outlining your services, goals, and strategies will help guide your business decisions and ensure you're on track for success.

Check Out HONA's Guide to pricing your services! 

Start Your Nail Tech Journey Today

Becoming a self-employed nail tech isn’t just about the technical skills! It’s also about setting yourself up for success behind the scenes. By following these simple steps, you’ll have a strong foundation to grow your business and focus on what really matters: creating stunning nails and building lasting relationships with your clients.