I started a pet sitting business last year.........
1. can i earn extra money up to a certain amount and not declare it
No. If you are already paying tax at work then your net income from this businss will be liable to tax/prsi at your highest rate.
2.if the revenue finds out what will happen
The Revenue doesn't thave to wait to find out. It's the responsibility of the taxpayer to tell them. Interest/penalties etc. all the usual stuff.
3. if i get insurance, what kind do i get?It wouldnt be worth my while paying 00s or 1000s every year if i only earn a small amount.
Check with an insurance broker / company. Must be something out there for this type of businss.
4. if i wanted to register the business,who do i go to.
As sole trader, go to
www.revenue.ie and file TR1. If using business name also need to go to
www.cro.ie and file RBN1 as business name.
Won't even go into companies as not likely to be worth it in your situation.
Remember its the net income after allowable expenses that's charged to tax, so make sure you keep note of your costs.