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How to Register a Limited Company in the UK

Complete step-by-step guide to registering your limited company with Companies House. From choosing a name to getting your certificate.

What You'll Need

  • Chosen company name
  • UK registered office address
  • Director details (name, DOB, address, nationality)
  • Shareholder details
  • Government Gateway account
  • £50 for registration fee

Step-by-Step Guide

1

Choose your company name

Your company name must be unique and end with 'Limited' or 'Ltd'. Check availability on the Companies House name checker.

Tips
  • •Avoid names too similar to existing companies
  • •Sensitive words (Royal, British, Bank) need approval
  • •You can trade under a different name
2

Decide on your registered office address

This is your company's official address for legal correspondence. It must be in the UK and will be public.

Tips
  • •Can be your home address
  • •Can use a registered office service
  • •Must be able to receive post
3

Appoint directors and shareholders

You need at least one director (aged 16+, not disqualified). Shareholders own the company - you can be both director and sole shareholder.

Tips
  • •Directors are legally responsible for the company
  • •You don't need a company secretary
  • •Keep director details up to date
4

Decide on share structure

Most small companies issue 1 ordinary share at £1. You can issue more shares later. This determines ownership.

Tips
  • •Simple is better for sole directors
  • •Consider different share classes for investors
  • •Share capital doesn't need to be paid upfront
5

Prepare your Memorandum and Articles

The Memorandum is a simple statement of intent to form a company. Articles govern how the company runs. Use model articles unless you need custom ones.

Tips
  • •Model articles work for most companies
  • •Custom articles for complex shareholdings
  • •You can amend articles later
6

Choose your SIC code

Standard Industrial Classification codes describe your business activity. Pick the most relevant one.

Tips
  • •You can have multiple SIC codes
  • •74909 is common for consultants
  • •62020 for IT consultancy
7

Register online with Companies House

Go to Companies House Web Incorporation Service. Create a Government Gateway account and submit your application. Costs £50.

Tips
  • •Online registration usually same-day
  • •Paper registration costs £71 and takes 8-10 days
  • •Have all details ready before starting
8

Receive your Certificate of Incorporation

Once approved, you'll receive your certificate by email. This confirms your company exists and includes your company number.

Tips
  • •Keep this safe - you'll need it for bank accounts
  • •Your company now legally exists
  • •Note your incorporation date for filing deadlines
9

Register for Corporation Tax

Register with HMRC for Corporation Tax within 3 months of starting to trade. Do this online through the Government Gateway.

Tips
  • •Not the same as registering with Companies House
  • •Tells HMRC when your accounting period starts
  • •You'll receive your UTR (Unique Taxpayer Reference)
10

Set up a business bank account

Open a separate bank account for your company. You can't use personal accounts for business legally.

Tips
  • •Starling and Monzo offer quick setup
  • •Traditional banks take longer but offer more services
  • •AccountsOS integrates with all major UK banks

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Not registering for Corporation Tax separately

Using personal bank account for business

Forgetting to note filing deadlines

Choosing a name too similar to existing companies

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to register a limited company in the UK?

Registering online via Companies House costs £12 and is usually processed within 24 hours. Paper applications cost £40 and take 8-10 working days. Same-day incorporation is available for £30 online.

Can I use my home address as the registered office?

Yes, you can use your home address as the registered office. However, be aware this address becomes public record on the Companies House register. Many directors use a registered office service to keep their home address private.

Do I need an accountant to set up a limited company?

No, you do not need an accountant to register a limited company. You can do it yourself online through Companies House in under an hour. However, you will likely want an accountant or accounting software to handle Corporation Tax returns and annual accounts.

What is the difference between a director and a shareholder?

A director manages the company and is legally responsible for running it properly. A shareholder owns part of the company through shares. In most small companies, the founder is both the sole director and sole shareholder.

How long does it take to register a limited company?

Online registration through Companies House typically takes 24 hours, often much less. You will receive a certificate of incorporation with your company number once approved. Paper applications take 8-10 working days.

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