Registering a limited company in the UK is straightforward when you prepare the right information first. Companies House registration creates a separate legal entity, gives the business an official company number and places key details on the public register. For most private companies limited by shares, the quickest route is to register a company online through GOV.UK.
This guide explains how to register a limited company step by step, including the required information, current registration fee and what to do after incorporation.
Check that a limited company is right for you
Before you incorporate a company in the UK, compare this structure with alternatives such as operating as a sole trader. A company is legally separate from its owners, which can offer limited liability, but it also brings continuing duties. Directors must maintain records, file annual accounts and submit confirmation statements.
Most small businesses choose a private company limited by shares. Companies limited by guarantee are more common for clubs, associations and not-for-profit organisations.
Choose an acceptable company name
Your proposed name cannot be the same as one already on the Companies House register, and a name that is too similar may be challenged. Check availability before investing in branding. Also search the UK trade mark database because Companies House approval does not give you trade mark rights.
Some words and expressions are restricted, while names suggesting a connection with government or public bodies may require permission. Most private company names must end in “Limited” or “Ltd”, subject to limited exceptions.
Appoint directors, shareholders and PSCs
Choose at least one director
A private limited company needs at least one director, while a company secretary is optional. Directors remain legally responsible for records and required filings, even when an accountant handles administration.
Identity verification is now part of the Companies House process. Before applying, a director may need to verify their identity through GOV.UK One Login or an Authorised Corporate Service Provider and obtain a personal code. If there is more than one director, collect any required personal codes before starting.
Decide the share structure
A company limited by shares needs at least one shareholder, who may also be the sole director. You must state the number and value of shares, their currency and attached rights. Many small companies begin with ordinary shares, but the arrangement should reflect intended ownership and voting rights.
Identify people with significant control
You must identify the company’s people with significant control, known as PSCs. This usually includes anyone with more than 25% of the shares or voting rights, the power to appoint or remove most directors, or other significant influence. PSC information is confirmed during registration, and identity-verification requirements also apply to PSCs.
Prepare the addresses and business details
You need a registered office address in the UK jurisdiction where the company is incorporated: England and Wales, Wales, Scotland or Northern Ireland. It must be an appropriate physical address where official documents can reach someone acting for the company. A PO Box alone is not enough.
The registered office appears on the public register. If you use your home, it will normally be visible, so consider an address service where appropriate. You must also provide a registered email address, which Companies House does not publish.
Directors provide a service address and a residential address, although the residential address is generally protected from public view. You must also select one or more Standard Industrial Classification, or SIC, codes describing the company’s activities.
Prepare the formation documents
You must agree to a memorandum of association, recording the subscribers’ intention to form the company. For a standard online application, it is created automatically.
You also need articles of association, which set the rules for running the business. Many straightforward companies use the standard model articles. Companies with investors, different share classes or tailored decision-making arrangements may need bespoke articles and professional advice.
A company limited by shares provides a statement of capital and initial shareholdings. A company limited by guarantee provides a statement of guarantee. Check these details carefully because ownership mistakes can be inconvenient to correct later.
Register a company online
Use the official GOV.UK incorporation service once your information is ready. The application covers the company name, registered office, email, directors, shareholders, PSCs, SIC code, share structure and articles. You will also confirm that the company is being formed for a lawful purpose.
The current online company registration fee is £100, payable by debit or credit card. A standard online application is usually processed within 24 hours, although errors or additional checks can cause delays. Be cautious with unofficial websites that resemble government services but add charges unless you intentionally want an agent’s help.
Postal registration using form IN01 is available when the standard online route is unsuitable. The current paper fee is £124, and postal applications typically take 8 to 10 days. More complex formations may require specialist software, an agent or a paper filing.
Review your certificate of incorporation
When approved, Companies House issues a certificate of incorporation. This confirms that the company legally exists and shows its registered number and formation date. Check the public register promptly to ensure the officers, addresses, PSC details and share information are correct.
Keep the certificate and formation documents with the company records, as banks or suppliers may request them.
Complete the steps after registration
Registration is only the start of the company’s responsibilities. HMRC will normally send its 10-digit Unique Taxpayer Reference to the registered office. Add Corporation Tax services to the business tax account and notify HMRC when the company starts trading where required.
Register for PAYE before paying employees, including a director receiving a salary, and check whether VAT registration is needed. Open a separate business bank account, establish bookkeeping procedures and record filing deadlines. Annual accounts and a confirmation statement are required even for many small or inactive companies.
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to register a limited company?
The official fee for standard online incorporation is currently £100. A paper application costs £124. Formation agents may charge extra for address services, document preparation or compliance support.
How long does Companies House registration take?
An online application is usually completed within 24 hours. Postal applications generally take 8 to 10 days. Processing can take longer if information is incomplete or additional checks are needed.
Can one person form a limited company?
Yes. One person can normally be the sole director, sole shareholder and PSC of a private company limited by shares, provided they meet the legal requirements.
Do I need an accountant to register a company?
No. You can register a straightforward company yourself through GOV.UK. Advice may be useful where there are several founders, investors, unusual share rights, tax questions or bespoke articles.
Register carefully and start with accurate records
Knowing how to register a limited company makes the process much less intimidating. Choose the structure and name, identify the directors, shareholders and PSCs, prepare the addresses and SIC code, agree the formation documents and submit the application through Companies House. A careful application can be approved quickly, while accurate records from day one make future tax and compliance work easier.