How to sell online without being self-employed: Practical guide for 2025

The digital era has changed the rules of the game for entrepreneurs, and more and more people are wondering if it is possible to sell online without registering as self-employed. Although the idea of starting an online business may sound attractive, there are legal and tax aspects to consider. In this guide, we will break down how you can sell online without being self-employed in 2025, exploring legal options, marketing strategies, and more.

Key Conclusions

• It is illegal to sell online without being registered as self-employed.
• There are legal alternatives, such as flat rates for new self-employed individuals.
• Third-party platforms can help reduce initial costs.
• It is essential to know the taxes that apply to online commerce.
• Marketing strategies are crucial for success in e-commerce.

Selling Online Without Being Self-Employed: What Does the Law Say?

It is a common question among those starting an online business: is it necessary to be self-employed to sell online? The short answer is that the law requires you to be registered as self-employed if the online selling activity is habitual and generates income. However, there are nuances and alternatives that we will explore.

Fundamental Legal Aspects

Spanish legislation establishes that anyone who carries out an economic activity habitually, with the intention of making a profit, must register in the Special Regime for Self-Employed Workers (RETA). This implies fulfilling tax and social security obligations. The key lies in the habituality and the intention to obtain benefits. If you sporadically sell second-hand items, for example, it would not be necessary to be self-employed. But if you regularly sell Shopify templates, then yes.

Requirements to Sell Online

If you decide to register as self-employed to sell online, you must meet the following requirements:

• Registration in the Census of Entrepreneurs, Professionals, and Withholders (model 036 or 037).
• Registration in the RETA.
• Fulfil tax obligations (VAT, personal income tax).
• Adapt your online store to the Law on Information Society Services and Electronic Commerce (LSSI-CE) and the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR).

It is important to remember that, although there are platforms that facilitate online selling, the responsibility for complying with the legislation lies with the seller.

Consequences of Not Complying with the Law

Selling online without being self-employed, when the law requires it, can lead to various negative consequences:

• Financial penalties from the Tax Agency and Social Security.
• Obligation to regularise the situation by registering as self-employed and paying overdue contributions.
• Possible legal issues in case of customer claims or complaints from competitors.

It is essential to evaluate the risks and benefits before deciding to sell online without being self-employed. If you are just starting, consider options such as the flat rate for self-employed individuals or collaborating with third parties to minimise initial costs.

Legal Alternatives to Sell Online and Reduce Initial Costs

Starting an online business can be exciting, but initial costs can sometimes be daunting. Fortunately, there are legal alternatives to start selling without having to register as self-employed from day one. These options allow you to test your idea, generate income, and, when you are ready, make the leap to self-employment with a solid foundation. Exploring these alternatives is key to minimising risks and maximising your chances of success.

Flat Rate for New Self-Employed Individuals

The flat rate is a great help for those starting out. For the first few months, you pay a reduced contribution to Social Security. This gives you room to consolidate your business without the pressure of high contributions from the start. It is important to inform yourself well about the requirements and duration of this rate, as it can vary depending on the autonomous community. For example, in some communities, the reduced rate is extended for a longer time if you are under 30 years old.

Collaboration Options

An interesting option is to collaborate with other self-employed individuals or companies. You can offer your products or services through their platform or online store in exchange for a commission. This allows you to reach a wider audience without the need to create your own infrastructure from scratch. Additionally, you can learn from the experience of others and establish valuable relationships in the sector. For example, if you sell Shopify templates, you could collaborate with a digital marketing agency that offers web design services. You can also consider:

• Affiliate programs.
• Selling through distributors.
• Licensing agreements.

Using Third-Party Platforms

Third-party platforms, such as marketplaces, are an excellent option to start selling online without being self-employed. These platforms provide you with the necessary infrastructure to showcase your products, manage payments, and reach a wide audience. In return, they usually charge a commission for each sale. Some popular platforms are Etsy (for handmade products), Amazon (for a wide variety of products), and eBay. Using these platforms has several advantages:

• Access to a large customer base.
• Ease of use and management.
• Lower initial investment.

It is important to remember that, although these alternatives allow you to start selling online without being self-employed, it is essential to comply with your tax obligations. You must declare the income you obtain through these platforms and pay the corresponding taxes. If your income exceeds a certain threshold, you will likely need to register as self-employed.

Remember that at Imagine Business, we help you find the perfect online business or the ideal Shopify template to start selling. Don’t hesitate to explore our Shopify templates and business opportunities!

Is It Legal to Sell Online Without Being Self-Employed?

It is a question that many entrepreneurs ask when starting their journey in the world of e-commerce. The short answer is: no, it is not legal if done habitually. However, there are nuances and alternatives that we will explore below, especially relevant for those looking to start selling Shopify templates or even an already established online business.

Legal Risks Associated

Selling online without being self-employed involves assuming certain risks. Spanish legislation requires that anyone who carries out an economic activity habitually must register as self-employed. This includes registering with the Tax Office and Social Security. Failing to do so can lead to significant financial penalties.

• Fines for not being registered in the RETA (Special Regime for Self-Employed Workers).
• Requests from the Tax Office to regularise the situation.
• Possible surcharges and interest for not declaring income correctly.

It is important to note that the Tax Office can carry out inspections to verify if a person is carrying out an economic activity habitually without being registered as self-employed. If this situation is detected, the corresponding penalties will be applied.

Tax Consequences

The tax consequences of not being registered as self-employed when selling online are significant. By not declaring the income obtained, you are committing tax fraud. This can lead to:

• Financial penalties proportional to the undeclared income.
• Possible investigations by the Tax Agency.
• Difficulties in accessing financing or public aid in the future.

Moreover, by not being registered, you cannot deduct expenses related to the activity, which increases the tax burden.

Viable Alternatives

While selling online habitually without being self-employed is not legal, there are some alternatives that may be viable, especially at the beginning. These options allow you to test the market and generate income without incurring the fixed costs of being self-employed from the start. One option is to consider selling already established online businesses, which can offer a smoother transition into entrepreneurship.

• Collaboration with third parties: Selling through platforms that act as intermediaries and handle billing and tax procedures.
• Occasional sales: Making sporadic sales without it being considered a habitual activity.
• Establishing a company: If the activity is going to be significant from the start, it may be interesting to create a company, although this involves other procedures and costs.

It is essential to carefully evaluate each option and ensure compliance with current legislation to avoid future problems. If you are thinking of acquiring an online business, at Imagine Business we advise you to make the best decision.

Taxes You Should Know When Selling Online

Understanding taxes is key for any online business, and we at Imagine Business know this well! Not only do we sell already established online businesses, but we also want our clients to succeed in the long term. That’s why we explain the most important taxes you need to consider when selling online, so you don’t get any surprises.

VAT and Its Application

VAT (Value Added Tax) is an indirect tax that levies consumption. As an online seller, you act as a collector of this tax for the Tax Office. You must apply VAT to your sales and then declare it quarterly.

• VAT Rates: In Spain, the general rate is 21%, but some products (such as certain books or food) have a reduced rate (10% or 4%). Make sure to apply the correct rate to your products or Shopify templates.
• Output VAT vs. Input VAT: Output VAT is the tax you charge your customers on each sale. Input VAT is the tax you pay on your purchases (office supplies, hosting, etc.). Quarterly, you subtract the input VAT from the output VAT and pay the difference to the Tax Office.
• Quarterly Declaration: This is done using model 303. It is important to keep a detailed record of all your sales and purchase invoices to complete the declaration correctly.

Personal Income Tax for Self-Employed Individuals

If you sell online as a self-employed individual, you must also pay personal income tax (IRPF). This tax levies your income as a natural person.

• Direct Estimation: This is the most common regime for self-employed individuals. You calculate your income minus your deductible expenses and apply a percentage (which varies according to your income) to calculate the IRPF to be paid.
• Fractional Payments: Throughout the year, you make fractional payments on account of the IRPF (model 130). At the end of the year, in the income tax return, the IRPF paid is adjusted with the total IRPF you owe.
• Deductible Expenses: You can deduct some expenses related to your activity, such as rent for your office (if you have one), purchase of materials, advertising expenses, etc. It is important to keep all invoices to justify these expenses.

Corporate Tax

If you sell online through a company (LLC, SA, etc.), instead of IRPF, you must pay corporate tax. This tax levies the profits of the company.

• Tax Rate: The general rate is 25%, although for newly created companies it can be 15% during the first two years with profits.
• Deductions and Bonuses: There are various deductions and bonuses that can reduce the amount to be paid for this tax. It is important to inform yourself well about those that apply to your case.
• Annual Declaration: This is done using model 200. Just like with IRPF, it is essential to keep an orderly accounting and retain all documentation to complete the declaration correctly.

It is essential that you consult with a manager or tax advisor to ensure compliance with all your tax obligations and optimise your tax burden. Good advice can save you a lot of money and prevent problems with the Tax Office.

Marketing Strategies to Sell Without Being Self-Employed

Advertising on Social Media

Social media is a powerful tool, especially if you don’t have a large initial budget. For Imagine Business, this means showcasing ready-to-use online businesses and Shopify templates that make life easier for entrepreneurs. A good strategy is to create content that solves common problems for entrepreneurs.

• Post content regularly: Keep your audience engaged with frequent posts.
• Use high-quality images and videos: Showcase your products in the best possible way.
• Engage with your audience: Respond to questions and comments to build a community.

SEO for Online Stores

SEO (Search Engine Optimisation) is crucial for your online store to appear in search results. If you sell online businesses, optimise your website for keywords like "buy profitable online business" or "acquire operational online store". If you sell Shopify templates, focus on terms like "best Shopify templates for dropshipping" or "SEO-optimised Shopify templates".

• Research relevant keywords: Use tools like Google Keyword Planner.
• Optimise your product descriptions: Make them clear, concise, and attractive.
• Create informative blog content: Attract organic traffic with useful articles.

SEO is not magic, but it does require patience and consistency. Monitor your results and adjust your strategy as necessary. Don’t give up if you don’t see immediate results.

Collaborations with Influencers

Collaborating with influencers can give you a significant boost, especially if you don’t have a large audience of your own. Look for influencers who target entrepreneurs or online business owners. You could offer them free access to one of your Shopify templates in exchange for an honest review, or even commissions for each sale they generate through their affiliate link. This can quickly increase the visibility of your business.

• Identify relevant influencers: Look for those with an engaged audience.
• Offer attractive incentives: Discounts, free products, or commissions.
• Set clear expectations: Define the terms of the collaboration in advance.

E-commerce Platforms Without the Need to Be Self-Employed

Choosing the right platform is key to starting to sell online, especially if you are looking for options that do not require you to be self-employed from the start. There are several alternatives that allow you to test your business idea and generate income before registering as self-employed. At Imagine Business, we understand the importance of this flexibility, which is why we offer online businesses for sale and Shopify themes that facilitate this process.

Popular Marketplaces

Marketplaces are an excellent option to start selling without the need to create your own online store from scratch. They act as intermediaries, connecting sellers with buyers. Some of the most popular are:

• Etsy: Ideal for handmade, vintage, and craft products. It has a large community of buyers interested in unique items.
• Amazon: Offers a wide range of products and massive reach. You can start selling as an individual and then scale up.
• eBay: Similar to Amazon, but with a more auction-oriented approach and second-hand products.

Advantages of Using Platforms

Using these platforms has several advantages:

• Low entry barrier: You don’t need to invest in web design, hosting, or security.
• Visibility: Marketplaces already have a large user base, making it easier for your products to be seen.
• Payment management: They handle payment processing and offer shipping options.

Starting on a marketplace allows you to validate your product and understand the market before investing in your own online store. It’s a way to minimise risks and learn on the go.

Limitations of Platforms

Although marketplaces are a good option to start, they also have some limitations:

• Commissions: They charge commissions for each sale, which can reduce your profit margins.
• Competition: There is a lot of competition, making it difficult to stand out your products.
• Less control: You have less control over branding and customer experience.

For those looking for more control and customisation, platforms like Shopify offer a middle ground. With our Shopify themes, you can create an attractive and professional online store without needing to be a web design expert. Additionally, they allow you to scale your business as you grow and decide to register as self-employed.

Payment Management Without Being Self-Employed

Alternative Payment Methods

If you are starting to sell online and have not yet registered as self-employed, managing payments may seem challenging. Fortunately, there are several alternatives that allow you to receive payments from your customers without needing to be self-employed from the start. Exploring these options is key to starting your business on the right foot.

• Payment platforms: Use platforms like PayPal, Stripe (in some cases), or similar. These platforms act as intermediaries and allow you to receive payments by credit or debit card without needing a business bank account.
• Bank transfers: Although less common, you can accept bank transfers directly to your personal account. However, keep in mind that this can complicate the management of your finances and tax declaration.
• Cash on delivery: If you sell physical products, consider offering the option of cash on delivery. This can increase customer trust, especially if they are new to your online store.

Transaction Security

Transaction security is a fundamental aspect, both for you and your customers. Make sure to use payment platforms that offer high levels of security and fraud protection.

• SSL Certificates: Ensure that your website has an SSL certificate (Secure Socket Layer). This guarantees that the information transmitted between the customer and your server is encrypted and protected.
• Two-Factor Authentication: Enable two-factor authentication on all your accounts, including payment platforms and your email. This adds an extra layer of security and makes unauthorised access more difficult.
• Constant Monitoring: Stay alert to any suspicious activity on your accounts. Regularly review your transactions and security notifications.

It is important to remember that, although these alternatives allow you to start selling online without being self-employed, it is essential to inform yourself about the legal and tax obligations that correspond to you as your business grows. Consider consulting a tax advisor to ensure compliance with all regulations.

Costs Associated with Payments

It is crucial that you take into account the costs associated with each payment method, as these can significantly affect your profit margins. Each platform has its own fees, and it is important to compare them to choose the most profitable option for your business. For example, if you sell themes and templates for Shopify, you should consider the commissions of each payment gateway.

Platform	Transaction Fee	Other Costs	Advantages
PayPal	3.4% + €0.35	None	Widely accepted, easy to integrate
Stripe	1.4% + €0.25 (EU)	None	Flexible integration, ideal for high-volume sales
Transfer	Variable	Bank fees	Greater control over funds, lower fees for large amounts

Remember that these costs are just part of the equation. You should also consider other factors, such as ease of use, security, and the reputation of the platform. Choosing the right option will help you manage your payments efficiently and maximise your profits.

Administrative Aspects When Selling Online

Managing an online business, even if you are not self-employed, involves handling several key aspects. From documentation to customer service, every detail counts for success. At Imagine Business, we understand that these processes can seem overwhelming, but with the right organisation, they can be significantly simplified. An efficient management is crucial to maintain operability and avoid legal issues.

Necessary Documentation

Even if you are not self-employed, it is important to keep a record of your sales and income. This will help you declare your taxes correctly and avoid possible penalties. Some documents you should consider are:

• Sales invoices: Keep copies of all invoices you issue.
• Purchase receipts: Retain receipts for the products or services you acquire for your business.
• Bank statements: Review your bank statements to keep track of your income and expenses.

Maintaining organised documentation will not only help you with your tax obligations but also give you a clear view of your business's financial health. This is especially useful if you plan to scale your business in the future.

Inventory Management

If you sell physical products, inventory management is essential. A good management system will allow you to know what products you have in stock, which sell faster, and when you need to restock. You can use spreadsheets or specialised software to keep efficient control. For those selling Shopify themes, it is important to know which are the most popular.

Customer Service

Customer service is a fundamental pillar for any online business. Responding to your customers' questions quickly and efficiently can make the difference between a successful sale and an unsatisfied customer. Consider implementing a ticket system or using a chatbot to streamline communication. Good customer service builds trust and loyalty.

How to Create an Online Store Without Being Self-Employed

Creating an online store without being self-employed may seem complicated, but with the right information, it is entirely possible. At Imagine Business, we specialise in helping you find the perfect online business, whether it’s an already established store or the resources to build it yourself. Here we will guide you through the key steps to launch your online store, even if you are not registered as self-employed.

Choosing the Platform

The choice of platform is crucial. Not all platforms are the same, and some are better suited to your needs than others. Consider these options:

• Shopify: Ideal for those looking for a complete and easy-to-use solution. It offers a wide variety of themes and applications to customise your store. At Imagine Business, we have a wide selection of Shopify themes designed for different market niches.
• Etsy: Perfect for handmade or vintage products. It has a large built-in customer base, making visibility easier.
• Marketplaces: Platforms like Amazon or eBay allow you to sell your products without needing to create your own online store. However, keep in mind the commissions and competition.

Design and Usability

The design of your online store is fundamental to attract and retain customers. A store with an attractive and user-friendly design generates trust and increases sales. Here are some tips:

• Use high-quality images of your products.
• Ensure that navigation is intuitive and straightforward.
• Optimise the loading speed of your website.
• Use a colour palette consistent with your brand.

A good design not only makes your store look good but also improves the user experience, which translates into more sales and satisfied customers.

Mobile Optimisation

In 2025, most online purchases will be made through mobile devices. It is essential that your store is optimised for mobile. This means it should be responsive, i.e., it should automatically adapt to the screen size of the device.

Here are some recommendations:

1. Use a responsive design.
2. Optimise images so they load quickly on mobile devices.
3. Ensure that buttons and links are easy to tap on touch screens.

At Imagine Business, all our Shopify templates are mobile-optimised, ensuring an excellent user experience on any device.

Success Stories of Selling Online Without Being Self-Employed

It's always inspiring to hear about people who've made it work, right? While technically you should be registered as self-employed to sell online regularly, there are stories of people who've found ways to start small and grow. Let's look at some examples, keeping in mind that this is more about the initial spark and less about long-term legal advice.

Inspirational Stories

Okay, so maybe you haven't heard of someone becoming a millionaire overnight without registering as self-employed from day one. But there are plenty of stories about people who started small, tested the waters, and then formalised their business as they grew. Think of the student who starts selling handmade jewellery on Etsy, or the stay-at-home parent who begins offering virtual assistant services. These are real people testing the market before committing to the full costs of being self-employed. The key is to start lean, validate your idea, and then scale responsibly.

• A crafter selling personalised gifts on a marketplace, reinvesting profits into better materials and marketing.
• A freelancer offering web design services part-time, building a portfolio and client base before going full-time.
• Someone creating and selling digital templates (like Shopify themes!) through a platform that handles most of the admin.

Lessons Learned

So, what can we learn from these stories? A few things stand out:

1. Start with a Minimum Viable Product (MVP): Don't invest a ton of money upfront. Test your idea with a basic version of your product or service.
2. Focus on Marketing: Get your name out there. Use social media, content marketing, and word-of-mouth to attract customers.
3. Automate Where Possible: Use tools and platforms to streamline your operations, especially in the beginning.

It's important to remember that these stories are about the initial phase. As your business grows, you'll need to formalise things to avoid legal issues. But they show that it's possible to start small and build something amazing.

Practical Tips

Alright, let's get down to some actionable tips. If you're thinking about selling online without immediately becoming self-employed, here's what I'd suggest:

• Use Platforms Wisely: Sites like Etsy or specialised marketplaces for Shopify themes can handle a lot of the admin for you.
• Keep Detailed Records: Even if you're not officially registered, track your income and expenses. This will make things easier when you do decide to formalise your business.
• Consult with an Advisor: Talk to a gestor or advisor to understand your legal obligations and plan for the future.

Starting an online business can be daunting, but it's also incredibly rewarding. By learning from the experiences of others and taking a smart, strategic approach, you can increase your chances of success. And remember, Imagine Business is here to help you find the perfect online business or working online businesses to get you started!

E-commerce Trends for 2025

The world of e-commerce is constantly evolving, and 2025 will be no exception. At Imagine Business, we are always attentive to the latest trends to offer you the best online business opportunities. Here are some of the most important trends you should keep in mind:

Technological Innovations

Technology continues to advance rapidly, and e-commerce is no exception. Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) are transforming the way online stores operate and interact with their customers. For example, AI is used to personalise the shopping experience, recommend relevant products, and optimise prices in real-time. Additionally, augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) are starting to gain ground, allowing customers to try on clothes virtually or see how furniture would look in their home before buying. These technologies offer a more immersive and engaging shopping experience.

• Artificial Intelligence (AI): Personalisation of the customer experience, product recommendations, price optimisation.
• Augmented Reality (AR): Virtual product trials, visualisation of products in the home.
• Blockchain: Greater security in transactions, transparency in the supply chain.

Changes in Consumer Behaviour

Consumer buying habits are changing rapidly. More and more people are shopping online, and they expect a fast, easy, and personalised shopping experience. Advanced automation is key to improving efficiency and customer satisfaction. Consumers are also increasingly concerned about sustainability and the ethics of companies, so it is important that your online store reflects these values. Additionally, mobile commerce continues to grow, so it is essential that your online store is optimised for mobile devices.

Today's consumers expect an omnichannel shopping experience, meaning they want to be able to shop at your online store, in your physical store (if you have one), and through social media, all in an integrated and coherent manner.

New Market Opportunities

E-commerce is opening new market opportunities for entrepreneurs and companies of all sizes. Business models are evolving, and there are more options than ever to sell online without needing to be self-employed. For example, dropshipping allows you to sell products without having to maintain inventory, and affiliate marketing lets you earn commissions by promoting products from other companies. Additionally, e-commerce platforms are increasingly facilitating the creation of online stores, even for people without technical knowledge. At Imagine Business, we offer a wide variety of online businesses and ready-to-use Shopify themes, so you can start selling online quickly and easily.

• Dropshipping: Selling products without maintaining inventory.
• Affiliate Marketing: Earning commissions by promoting products from other companies.
• Selling Digital Services: Offering services such as web design, online marketing, or consulting through your online store.

In the world of e-commerce, trends for 2025 are changing rapidly. Personalisation and customer experience will be more important than ever. Companies that adapt to these new ways of selling online will have a significant advantage. If you want to stay updated on the latest news and tips about e-commerce, visit our website and discover how you can improve your business today. Don’t miss out!

Final Thoughts on Selling Online Without Being Self-Employed

In summary, selling online without being self-employed may seem attractive, but it is important to understand the legal and financial implications. The law requires that if you decide to start a business, you register as self-employed to avoid future problems. Although there are alternatives that can help reduce initial costs, it is always advisable to act within the legal framework. So, if you are thinking of launching your online business, make sure to have a solid plan and consider the option of registering as self-employed. This will not only protect you from possible penalties but also allow you to grow sustainably in the world of e-commerce.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I sell online without being self-employed?

No, selling online without being registered as self-employed is illegal in Spain.

What are the consequences of not registering as self-employed?

If you do not register, you may face fines and legal issues if the Tax Agency inspects you.

What alternatives do I have to sell online legally?

You can opt for the flat rate for self-employed individuals, collaborate with others, or use third-party platforms.

What taxes do I have to pay if I am self-employed?

Self-employed individuals must pay VAT, personal income tax, and a monthly contribution to Social Security.

What is the flat rate for new self-employed individuals?

It is an option that allows you to pay only €60 per month during the first year.

How can I promote my online store?

Use social media, advertising, and collaborations with influencers to get noticed.

What platforms can I use to sell without being self-employed?

You can use marketplaces like Amazon or eBay, which facilitate selling without needing to be self-employed.

What should I consider when managing online payments?

It is important to choose secure payment methods and know the costs associated with each one.