Setting up a new business and WTC

[Mrdarcyswife]

Hi
Hoping someone can help here!
I'm setting up as a therapist and it will obviously take time to build a client base.
Initially I am working more than 16hrs a week, setting up the business/ website etc, but there is bound to be a lull once this is done as I start to build up work. How does this work with WTC. The website says I need to work an average of 16 hrs, but over what timescale? I'm confident that i will be in a few months time, but not straight away. Also I won't be working in school holidays

Also I have had an offer of gardening/ labouring work for a family member, so I could do this to make up the hours (and will be paid), but how do I prove that's genuine work when it isn't related to the therapy work?
All help gratefully received!
Thanks

do not rely on tax credits as part of your calculation

Have you thought about becoming a limited company and becoming an employee?

Pm me if you like as I work in a similar manner

the tax benefits of limited company only outweigh the extra compliance costs once turnover goes over around £35k

and as an employee of a close company, why pay 13.8% ERS NI when you do not have to