The discussion paper deals with the problematic data entry of free professions in the socioeconomic panel (SOEP) and tries to find a systematic approach which enhances the consistency and therefore the quality of the data. Thereby critical changes within the self-employed group are addressed in particular. The aim of this paper is to develop solutions created to the adjustment of these changes. Moreever, the paper makes proposals to future questionnaires and demonstrates new strategic aims for an expansion of scientific user of SOEP in context with “start-up-research”. Concluding, the appendix documents the extensive retrospective adjustment of these critical changes.