1. Introduction
If you’re planning to start a limited company in the UK, you’ll need to go through Companies House company registration. Companies House is the UK’s official registrar of companies, and all limited companies must be registered with them to operate legally.
2. What Is Companies House?
Companies House is the government agency responsible for:
- Registering new companies.
- Maintaining company records.
- Ensuring businesses file annual accounts and confirmation statements.
- Making company information publicly available.
3. Why Register with Companies House?
- Legal Requirement: All UK limited companies must be registered.
- Separate Legal Entity: Protects your personal finances.
- Credibility: A registered company appears more professional.
- Access to Funding: Investors and banks prefer registered companies.
- Name Protection: No one else can register the same company name.
4. Types of Companies You Can Register
- Private Limited Company (Ltd): Most common for small businesses.
- Public Limited Company (PLC): For larger companies that sell shares publicly.
- Limited Liability Partnership (LLP): For professional partnerships.
- Community Interest Company (CIC): For social enterprises.
5. Costs of Company Registration
- Online Registration: £12 (via Companies House Web Incorporation Service).
- Postal Registration: £40 (using IN01 paper form).
- Same-Day Service: £100 (must apply by 3 pm).
6. Information Required for Registration
To complete Companies House company registration, you’ll need:
- Company name (must be unique and follow rules).
- Company address (registered office address in the UK).
- Details of directors (minimum one required).
- Shareholder information (at least one shareholder).
- Details of share capital (if applicable).
- Standard Industrial Classification (SIC) code (describes your business activity).
7. Key Documents Needed
- Memorandum of Association: Signed by all shareholders agreeing to form the company.
- Articles of Association: Rules for how the company will be run.
- IN01 Form: Includes company details, directors, and shareholder information.
8. Steps for Companies House Company Registration
Step 1: Choose a Company Name
- Must not be identical or too similar to another registered name.
- Cannot include sensitive words without permission.
Step 2: Decide on Company Structure
- Private Limited (Ltd), PLC, LLP, or CIC.
Step 3: Provide Company Details
- Address, directors, and shareholders.
Step 4: Prepare Documents
- Memorandum and Articles of Association.
Step 5: Register Online or by Post
- Online is faster and cheaper (£12).
Step 6: Receive Certificate of Incorporation
- Confirms your company legally exists.
9. Responsibilities After Registration
- File annual accounts.
- Submit a confirmation statement every year.
- Maintain accurate company records.
- Pay corporation tax and register with HMRC.
10. Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Choosing a name too similar to an existing company.
- Forgetting to include SIC codes.
- Providing inaccurate director details.
- Not filing annual reports after registration.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How long does Companies House company registration take?
Online applications are usually approved within 24 hours. Postal applications can take up to 10 days.
2. Do I need an accountant to register a company?
No, you can register directly with Companies House, though many people use accountants for support.
3. Can I use my home address as the company address?
Yes, but it will appear publicly on the Companies House register.
4. Do I need more than one director or shareholder?
No, a single person can be both director and shareholder.
5. What happens if I don’t register with Companies House?
You cannot legally operate as a limited company.
6. Can I change company details after registration?
Yes, directors, shareholders, and addresses can be updated with Companies House.
Conclusion
Completing Companies House company registration is the essential first step to running a limited company in the UK. The process is straightforward, especially online, and provides legal protection, credibility, and opportunities for growth. By preparing the right documents and following the correct steps, you can set up your company quickly and start trading with confidence.