Need advice re: working abroad as an independent contractor

I have just received permission to work from abroad. I am an independent contractor and would still get paid in USD.

My question is this, do I need to get a letter from my employer showing that I work for him?

Also, if I'm getting paid in USD from America, do I pay US taxes and social security or do I pay UK taxes and National Insurance? If I had the choice of either, what would make more economic sense? And if I file US taxes, can I claim the regular deductions and child tax credit?

Thanks

What visa will you be getting?

Spouse visa for my wife.

Since your name is "expatbrit", I'm assuming that by "abroad" you mean you're currently working in the US, and want to move to the UK with your wife while working for the same employer. Generally you pay income taxes in the country where you live, and in the country where the income is earned.

I think you would have to get paid into a UK account in order to prove that you will be present and settled in the UK for your wife's visa, and during her probationary period. If your income is paid into a UK bank account (albeit in USD), and you live in the UK and only visit the US without working there, then I think you would not need to pay any US taxes.

Ecnomically speaking, you can get paid into an offshore account and never spend more than 3 months a year in any country... or you decide which country you are going to retire in.

Zero,

Yes, I'm in the US right now, it's not possible to do direct deposit in my UK bank in USD. I'm guessing I will probably need a letter confirming I still have employment when moving to the UK.