How to Register as a Freelancer in the Philippines (Step-by-Step Guide)
Registering as a freelancer in the Philippines is one of those tasks everyone knows they should do, but very few people are excited to figure out. The information is scattered, the steps feel unclear, and most explanations either assume you already know what you’re doing or make the process sound more intimidating than it actually is.
This guide exists to simplify that. Below is a clear, step-by-step breakdown of how freelancers register their services in the Philippines, what documents are required, and what to expect during the process.
Why Freelancers Should Register Their Services
Freelancers in the Philippines are required to register their services if they are earning income independently. Beyond compliance, registration also supports long-term work and professional growth.
Registering allows you to:
You can legally issue official receipts (ORs) to clients. Many companies, agencies, and corporate clients require ORs before releasing payment.
Registration ensures that your income is properly declared and taxed, helping you avoid penalties, surcharges, and issues during audits.
Being registered signals professionalism and legitimacy, which can be especially important when working with larger or long-term clients.
Registration confirms that your freelance work is officially recognized as a business or source of income.
What to Know Before You Go
Preparing ahead of time makes a noticeable difference when registering. Before going to your Revenue District Office (RDO), keep the following in mind:
Your assigned RDO is based on your registered address and determines where you must file.
You will be asked to choose your tax type, so it helps to understand your options beforehand
Requirements and flow may vary slightly depending on the RDO
Waiting time is normal, so plan to set aside several hours
While some RDOs accept walk-ins, appointments are strongly recommended
BIR eAppointment System | schedule an appointment.
Requirements for Freelancer Registration
Below is a standard list of documents required when registering as a freelancer or sole proprietor.
BIR Form 1901
This is the Application for Registration for Self-Employed Individuals. Download here.Valid government-issued ID
This is used to verify your identity. The ID should clearly show your full name and photo.Tax Identification Number (TIN)
If you already have a TIN, you will continue using the same one. If you do not yet have a TIN, you must apply for one as part of the registration process. First-time applicants typically secure a TIN by submitting BIR Form 1901 to their assigned Revenue District Office (RDO). The TIN will be issued during registration once your application is approved.Proof of address
This confirms your registered address and RDO assignment. Accepted documents typically include a utility bill, lease contract, or barangay certificate.DTI Registration (if applicable)
This is required only if you are using a business or trade name instead of your full legal name. Freelancers operating under their own name may not need this.Supporting documents (optional but recommended)
These may include sample contracts, invoices, or receipts. While not always requested, they can help clarify the nature of your services if questions arise.
Step-by-Step: How to Register as a Freelancer
Step 1: Go to Your Assigned RDO
Visit the Revenue District Office assigned to your address. Bring all required documents along with photocopies, as some offices require duplicate submissions.
Step 2: Submit BIR Form 1901 and Documents
BIR staff will review your application, check completeness, and may ask about the nature of your freelance work, expected income, or client type.
Step 3: Choose Your Tax Type
You will be asked how you want to be taxed. This choice affects your filing frequency and tax computation, so take time to understand your options and ask questions before confirming.
Step 4: Pay Registration Fees
When you submit your registration documents, you’ll be asked to pay the necessary government charges before your application can be processed.
Here’s what you should expect:
Documentary Stamp Tax (₱30)
This is the official tax that must be affixed to your Certificate of Registration (COR). It’s a one-time requirement at the time of initial registration and is currently ₱30 for most new self-employed or freelancer registrations.As part of the Ease of Paying Taxes Act (Republic Act No. 11976), the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) stopped collecting the annual ₱500 registration fee for new business taxpayers effective January 2024. This means freelancers registering now are exempt from paying the annual BIR registration fee at the start.
Step 5: Register Your Books of Accounts
You will be instructed on how many books of accounts you need and how they should be labeled. These books are required for recording income and expenses.
Step 6: Apply for Official Receipts
You will receive instructions on how to print and register your official receipts. These are required when issuing receipts to clients.
Step 7: Receive Your Certificate of Registration
Once all steps are completed, you will receive confirmation that you are officially registered as a freelancer!
What to Do After You’re Registered
Registering with the Bureau of Internal Revenue is not the final step. There are a few required tasks you need to complete after receiving your Certificate of Registration (COR).
Have Your Official Receipts Printed
After registration, you need to have your official receipts (ORs) printed by a BIR-accredited printer. These receipts are what you will issue to clients for payments received.
You can ask your RDO for a list of accredited printers. Many freelancers choose a printer near their RDO for convenience. Your printer will usually assist with registering the receipts before use.
Register Your Books of Accounts via ORUS
Once you receive your COR, you are also required to register your books of accounts. These books are used to record your income and expenses.
Books can be purchased from bookstores or printing shops. Registration can be done online through the Online Registration and Update System (ORUS), depending on your RDO’s process.
Tips to Make the Registration Process Easier
Schedule your appointment as early in the day as possible
Morning slots tend to move faster, and you’re less likely to be affected by system slowdowns or cut-off times later in the afternoon.Bring extra photocopies of every document
Even if the requirements list says “one copy,” some RDOs ask for additional sets on the spot. Having extras saves you from stepping out just to photocopy.Keep both digital and printed copies of your forms
A printed copy is required, but having a digital version on your phone or email helps if something needs to be rechecked or reprinted.Dress comfortably but appropriately
You don’t need corporate attire, but looking presentable helps the interaction go smoothly, especially during clarifications.Expect waiting time and plan your day around it
Even with an appointment, delays happen. Avoid scheduling other commitments on the same day so you’re not rushed or stressed.Ask questions, even if they feel basic
It’s better to clarify during registration than to fix mistakes later. RDO staff are used to first-time registrants.Take notes during the process
Instructions about books of accounts, official receipts, and next steps can be easy to forget once you leave the office.Keep all receipts and registration documents in one folder
These will be needed for future filings, renewals, or updates, so it helps to keep everything organized from the start.Double-check your Certificate of Registration (COR)
Make sure your name, TIN, address, tax type, and line of business are correct before leaving the RDO. Any mistakes should be corrected immediately to avoid filing issues later on.
Registering as a freelancer can feel intimidating, mainly because the information is scattered. Once the steps are laid out clearly, the process becomes much more manageable.
Save this guide for reference, or share it with a freelancer friend who may need it!
