Do You Need to be a Registered Business to Use Zettle?

By Olivia Johnson - Trusted UK Business Expert

Last Updated 16th of April 2025

5 minute read

Zettle is a popular payment platform designed to help small businesses and entrepreneurs process card payments. But before you start using Zettle, you might wonder if you need to be a registered business. Let’s explore the requirements and help you decide if Zettle is the right fit for you. 

You don’t need to be a registered business to use Zettle. Freelancers, sole traders, and individuals can also sign up. However, having a business registration can offer added benefits and may be required for certain features or limits. 

If you’re considering using Zettle but unsure if you need to register as a business first, we’ve got more details to guide you. Keep reading to find out all the essentials. 

Start taking payments with ease. Click below to find out how you can begin using Zettle today.

Do You Need to be a Registered Business to Use Zettle? 

Zettle, a payment system popular among small businesses and entrepreneurs, allows users to process credit and debit card payments easily. Many people are keen to know whether they need to be a registered business to use it, and the good news is, no, it’s not a requirement. However, the answer depends on your specific situation and what kind of use you have in mind. 

For freelancers, sole traders, and individuals starting small side ventures, Zettle offers a simple solution. If you’re selling products or services on a small scale and don’t yet have a formal business structure, Zettle allows you to accept payments as an individual. This makes it ideal for those who want to start selling without the initial costs or paperwork associated with business registration. 

That said, there are a few nuances to consider. While you can use Zettle as an individual, some limits might be imposed on your account. For example, non-registered users might have lower transaction limits or fewer available features compared to fully registered businesses. Additionally, if you’re planning to scale up, having a business registration could unlock more benefits and prevent you from encountering restrictions. 

Zettle is designed to be user-friendly for individuals and businesses alike, whether you’re just starting your venture or running an established company. It provides an easy way to take payments, but the requirements vary slightly depending on whether you’re using it as an individual or a registered business. 

Zettle for Sole Traders and Individuals 

As a sole trader or individual, you don’t have to be officially registered as a business to start using Zettle. This makes it perfect for freelancers, hobbyists, and small-scale entrepreneurs who want to start processing payments without needing a full business structure in place. You can sign up and start accepting card payments with just basic personal information. 

However, there are some important details to note: 

• Transaction Limits: As an individual, you may face certain transaction limits when processing payments through Zettle. These limits are in place to ensure that you’re using the system for personal or low-volume sales rather than large-scale business operations. 
• VAT: If you start earning over a specific threshold, typically set by your country’s tax laws, you may be required to register for VAT. Zettle does not automatically register you for VAT, so you would need to do that separately if your income exceeds the threshold. 

Zettle for Registered Businesses 

If you decide to register your business, you can access additional features and fewer restrictions. With a registered business, you’ll have the following advantages: 

• Higher Transaction Limits: Business accounts tend to come with higher transaction limits, which can be crucial as your sales grow. 
• VAT Integration: A registered business is required to charge VAT (depending on local laws), and Zettle makes it easy to integrate VAT into your sales process. 
• Customisable Invoicing: Registered businesses often need more tailored invoicing options, which Zettle can accommodate, giving your brand a more professional appearance. 
• Tax Benefits: As a business owner, you can often claim back business-related expenses, including payment processing fees, which is another reason why registering as a business might be worth considering. 

What Are the Benefits of Being a Registered Business on Zettle? 

While you don’t need to be a registered business to use Zettle, becoming one can bring a host of benefits. Here’s why some users might choose to go through the registration process: 

• More Control and Flexibility: Having a registered business allows you to access more advanced features, such as custom invoices and more comprehensive analytics. 
• Professional Image: A registered business often appears more professional to customers, which can enhance your brand’s credibility and trustworthiness. This can be particularly important if you’re selling products or services to other businesses or larger clients. 
• Higher Limits: If your sales start growing, you’ll need higher transaction limits. Zettle offers greater flexibility for registered businesses, including the ability to process larger transactions. 
• Tax Advantages: Registered businesses can claim back VAT on eligible purchases, saving money in the long run. You can also deduct your payment processing fees as business expenses. 
• Easier Access to Funding: As a registered business, you might have easier access to loans and other forms of financing, as you’ll have established a formal business structure. 

How to Use Zettle if You’re Not a Registered Business? 

If you’re not yet a registered business but still want to use Zettle, you can easily sign up. Here’s how: 

• Download the Zettle App: Zettle’s app is available for both Android and iOS. Download it from your app store. 
• Create Your Account: Once you’ve installed the app, create an account by entering your basic details. You will be asked for your name, email address, and banking information. 
• Start Accepting Payments: After creating your account, you can begin accepting payments. Zettle supports card readers, allowing you to process in-person payments, and you can also create invoices for online payments. 
• Track Your Sales: The app provides tools to track your sales, so you can easily monitor your cash flow. 

When Should You Consider Registering Your Business? 

While you can use Zettle as an individual, there are certain circumstances when registering your business might be the best option: 

• You Plan to Scale: If you’re planning to expand your business, a registered structure will allow you to access more features and resources, including larger transaction limits and additional payment processing tools. 
• You’re Facing Higher Transaction Volumes: If you’re consistently making higher sales, it may be worth registering your business to avoid hitting transaction limits. 
• You’re Hiring Employees: If your venture grows and you need to hire employees, registering your business will be a legal requirement in many places. 

Are you ready to start using Zettle for your business or personal venture? Click the link below to sign up and get started today. Whether you’re a freelancer, sole trader, or looking to scale your business, Zettle has the tools you need to succeed! 

FAQ 

Can I use Zettle without registering for VAT? 

Yes, you can use Zettle without registering for VAT, but you may need to do so if your income exceeds the VAT threshold in your country. 

Do I need to provide a business address to use Zettle? 

No, you can sign up using a personal address if you’re not a registered business. However, business accounts will require a business address. 

How do I upgrade my Zettle account to a registered business? 

To upgrade, simply log into your account and follow the steps to provide additional business details, such as your business name and tax ID. 

Are there any fees for using Zettle? 

Zettle charges a fee for each transaction processed, but there are no monthly fees. The transaction fee varies depending on the type of payment (card or invoice). 

By now, you should have a clearer understanding of whether you need to be a registered business to use Zettle. Whether you’re an individual or an established business, Zettle can offer the tools to streamline your payment process.