Becoming a Writer - am I SA self employed even without earnings?

[Fairydusty]

Hello,

I had trouble finding suitable part-time employment for the last 2 years and so decided to go creative and try writing and other arts. I declare self assessment due to other income from bank interest and property rental and pay tax on that.

My question is - am I now classified as self employed for my SA as I am not looking for other work? I have not made a penny from my writing yet but expect to (it is hard!). I understand that if I do classify myself as self-employed, I would have to pay NI - but would that be on my total income (from bank interest, investments and property rental) or only from any earnings I make from writing?

I am wondering if I am better of just being 'unemployed' until I start making money? Still studying writing too (self-study)

I hoep this post is clear!