Starting your own company in the UK? One of the first steps is registering with Companies House the UK’s official company register. Whether you’re setting up a small business or a startup, here’s everything you need to know to get started.
Step 1: Choose a Company Name
Your company name must:
- Be unique (not the same or too similar to another).
- Avoid offensive or sensitive words.
- End in “Limited” or “Ltd” if you’re forming a private limited company.
Tip: Use the Companies House name checker to see if your name is available.
Step 2: Decide on Your Company Structure
The most common type is a Private Company Limited by Shares (Ltd), but you can also choose:
- Company limited by guarantee
- Public Limited Company (PLC)
- Community Interest Company (CIC), etc.
Step 3: Prepare the Key Details
To register, you’ll need:
- A registered office address in the UK
- At least one director
- At least one shareholder
- A statement of capital and shareholdings
- A Standard Industrial Classification (SIC) code to describe what your business does
Step 4: Register Your Company
There are three main ways to register a limited company in the UK:
Online via Companies House (Web Incorporation Service)
- Fee: £12
- Time: Usually registered within 24 hours
- You can only use this if you’re setting up a standard private company limited by shares (Ltd) with model articles.
Online via an Agent (Company Formation Agent)
- Fee: Varies (usually £12–£30)
- Offers extras like a registered office address, digital documents, VAT registration, etc.
- Great for people who want more guidance or need customisation.
By Post (Form IN01)
- Fee: £40
- Time: Takes around 8–10 working days
- Required if you’re:
- Using custom articles of association
- Setting up a different company type (e.g., limited by guarantee or a PLC)
Download form: Form IN01
Step 5: Receive Your Certificate of Incorporation
Once registered, you’ll receive:
- A Company Number
- A Certificate of Incorporation
- Confirmation of your company’s legal status
Step 6: Register for Corporation Tax
You must register with HMRC for Corporation Tax within 3 months of starting to trade. You can do this online at gov.uk.
Final Thoughts
Registering with Companies House is a key milestone for your business. Make sure you keep your records up to date, file annual accounts and confirmation statements, and stay compliant.
Need help setting up your company or sorting the paperwork? Let us know we’re happy to help!