Access to Work for the self-employed

Name: Kate Keir
Address: GB
Price range: ££

Yes, you can apply. Here's what counts as in-work, what self-employed ND founders can actually get funded, and the small framing shifts that make applications land.

One of the biggest myths about Access to Work is that it's only for employed people. It isn't. Self-employed sole traders, freelancers and limited-company directors all qualify, and in many cases the scheme suits self-employment particularly well - you can choose your own support provider and design the help around how you actually work.

What counts as "in work"

You don't need to be earning a specific amount. What matters is that the work is real and ongoing: active clients, invoices being raised, contracts in place, or a funded plan you're executing. A website and a couple of paying clients is usually plenty of evidence.

What you can apply for

ND coaching for strategy, focus and managing the business side of being self-employed.
Support worker hours for body doubling, admin help, task initiation and the parts of self-employment that drain executive function.
Equipment and software - noise-cancelling headphones, second screens, planning apps, transcription tools.
Travel in some cases, when standard transport isn't accessible.

The framing shift that matters

Self-employed applicants often undersell themselves by listing tasks ("I need help with email"). The application lands better when you describe the impact ("I can't reliably action client emails without losing the rest of the day, so I lose work"). Same task, different framing - and one of them is what Access to Work is designed to fund.

How the money flows when you're self-employed

You pay your support provider from your business account, then claim back through the Maximus customer portal. The full process is in our guide to claiming Access to Work online.

FAQs

Can self-employed people get Access to Work?

Yes. Self-employed people, sole traders and limited-company directors paying themselves through PAYE or dividends can all apply, provided the work is genuine paid work and you can evidence it.

What counts as 'in work' for self-employed Access to Work?

Active client work, contracts, invoices being raised, or a viable business plan with funded activity. You don't need to be VAT registered or above any earnings threshold.

Will Access to Work fund a Virtual Assistant for self-employed founders?

It can fund a support worker who helps with the practical parts of running your business - that often looks a lot like a VA, but it has to be framed as support for your disability-related needs, not generic admin outsourcing.

Do I need an accountant or proof of trading to apply?

You'll be asked about your business. Bank statements, invoices, your website, and a description of your work are usually enough. You don't need an accountant's letter.