I think the main issue is claiming benefits and working, because you'll never know how much you're going to make, though I don't know anything about tax credits.

I declare absolutely everything, both in terms of income and outgoings that are claimable expenses, i.e. a portion of utility bills etc., condoms, makeup, stockings, mobile and so on. You'd be able to claim any rent you paid your boyfriend if it was purely for work purposes.

I'm not going to ask how you have £3k+ in monthly expenses, but is there any way you could bring that down??

You do have a few months' grace before you need to declare yourself as self-employed, so you could always try it for three months and see how it goes?

Get an accountant ASAP. X

Thanks ladies. I’ve no idea where to start with an accountant, will have a google x

First thing to do is register as self employed.

Then enquire about a debt relief order if in Scotland or IVA in England.

That will then mean you pay on average 20% of the debt over about 5 years.

Everything else written off.

That can include income tax debts and council tax arrears.

I have to make roughly the same a month. Kids are expensive and I don't even drive lol. Plus I want to have money left over at the month for whatever.  Oh, the joys of living in London and forking out over a grand alone on rent and council tax.
Anyway, I digress.

You have 3 months to register as SE. The only thing I would suggest is to consider this carefully. You say at the moment you cannot work more hours because of childcare, you will still have this issue and at the moment you do have an income. There's no specific pattern time wise punters want to see us. And depending on how saturated your area is, work might be very slim.

Although I do really well with this I also have a civvy job just to ensure that I keep my head above water especially as I don't fuck when I am menstruating so this limits me to basically oral. Plus it's coming to Christmas and some punters start to tighten their belts a bit.

Are you sure you are getting everything that you are entitled to benefit wise? There are a couple of calculators online that give you a good indication. You have put in a council tax single adult discount? Getting assistance with childcare either through Tax credits or some employers do a salary sacrifice scheme.

Also look to see if you are in a Universal Credit area. If you are as soon as you declare any changes you will be switched over, which will leave you with nothing for at least 5 weeks.