Becoming self employed and SMP

[Yelloyello]

Hello,
Wondering if anybody knows the answer to this. Any help appreciated!
I’m expecting a baby next year and can claim SMP from my employer. I’d like to do some self employed work while I’m away on maternity, which I understand from the Gov.uk website I can do.
But my question is when do I have to have registered as self employed by? Is it by the 15th week before the baby is due? If I don’t register as self employed by then will it affect the SMP from my employer? Also will she be notified if I register? There’s nothing in my contract that says I can’t do self employed work while on maternity leave.

Call an accountant. You will probably end up needing one to submit your tax return once you add in your self employed income anyway so get one on board now for professional advice.

I don't think it will have any impact on your SMP, register whenever you start going self employed work.
I work full time and run my business on the side, my self employed work is having no effect on my SMP (which I am claiming from Feb next year)

Thank you for your replies. I’m certain of everything now!