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Income Tax Deferral for the Self-Employed

If you are self employed, Income Tax payments due in July 2020 under the Self-Assessment system will be deferred to January 2021.

Published: 23 March 2020 | 12:00 AM Updated: 28 April 2021 | 4:30 PM
Photograph of musician at home working on notation.
You will not be penalised for late payment or charged any late payment interest. Photo credit: Shutterstock

Anyone self-employed is eligible, and this offer will be applied automatically. During the deferral period you will not be penalised for late payment, or charged any late payment interest.

For more guidance on the coronavirus outbreak, see our Coronavirus Advice Hub.

Call on Government to properly protect freelance workers

Whilst we’re doing what we can to alleviate some of the financial pressure on musicians – we urgently need proper protections from Government for freelance workers affected by or self-isolating due to coronavirus.

We’re asking musicians to join us by writing to their MPs. We’ve even published a letter template if you’re not sure what to say – take action now.

Get MU membership today

From gig players to part-time teachers and professional instrumentalists, MU members can access specialist insurance for musicians. This includes Public Liability, Instrument and Equipment Insurance, Accident Insurance, Tax Investigation Insurance, and Professional Indemnity Insurance for music teachers.

Explore our member services

  • Get public liability insurance for musicians
  • Access expert legal support
  • Be represented in your profession
  • Access expert career advice, resources, and training events
  • Connect, network, and get to know the community of musicians

Learn about all membership benefits

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MU to Attend FOCUS Wales 2026 in Wrexham

Taking place from 7-9 May, FOCUS Wales is an international showcase spotlighting over 250 artists and featuring industry sessions, arts events, film screenings and more. The MU will be hosting a series of coffee morning drop-in sessions, as well as an afternoon mixer event.

Published: 24 February 2026

Read more about MU to Attend FOCUS Wales 2026 in Wrexham
Empty music classroom with seats and sheet stands.

Changes to Enhanced AccessNI Disclosure Checks

From 17 February 2026, legislative changes in Northern Ireland allow self-employed musicians working with children and vulnerable adults to apply for an Enhanced AccessNI disclosure check through a registered Umbrella Body.

Published: 23 February 2026

Read more about Changes to Enhanced AccessNI Disclosure Checks