1. What Is Companies House?
Companies House is the official UK government registrar where all limited companies must register. It maintains public records on companies and ensures compliance with legal reporting requirements.
2. Why Register with Companies House?
- Makes your business a separate legal entity
- Protects your company name
- Helps with credibility and trust
- Required for limited companies, including LTD and LLP
3. Types of Companies You Can Register
- Private Company Limited by Shares (Ltd) – Most common for businesses
- Private Company Limited by Guarantee – Often used by non-profits
- Limited Liability Partnership (LLP) – Combines features of partnerships and companies
- Public Limited Company (PLC) – For large businesses that can sell shares publicly
4. Requirements Before You Register
You need to:
- Choose a unique company name (not already registered)
- Decide on a company structure
- Appoint at least one director (and one shareholder for Ltd companies)
- Provide a UK registered office address
- Have a memorandum and articles of association (template provided by Companies House)
5. Step-by-Step: How to Set Up a Company via Companies House
- Choose your company name
- Prepare documents:
- Director’s details
- Shareholder info
- Registered office address
- SIC code (business activity)
- Apply online at gov.uk/set-up-business or directly through Companies House
- Pay the £12 online registration fee
- Receive your Certificate of Incorporation (usually within 24 hours)
You can also register by post for £40, which takes 8–10 days.
6. After Registration: What’s Next?
- Register for Corporation Tax with HMRC (within 3 months)
- Set up a business bank account
- Consider registering for VAT if turnover exceeds £90,000
- Maintain annual filing obligations:
- Confirmation Statement (yearly)
- Annual Accounts (Companies House & HMRC)
7. Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Choosing a name that’s already taken or too similar
- Not understanding your legal obligations as a director
- Using a PO Box instead of a physical UK address
- Missing deadlines for annual filings (leads to fines)
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How long does it take to register a company with Companies House?
Online registrations usually take 24 hours. Postal applications take up to 10 days.
2. Can I use my home address as the registered office?
Yes, but it will be visible to the public. Consider using a virtual office if privacy is important.
3. Is it mandatory to register a business name?
Only for limited companies. Sole traders don’t register with Companies House but must register with HMRC.
4. Do I need an accountant to set up a company?
No, but it helps. Especially to stay compliant post-registration.
5. What if I make a mistake during registration?
You can file corrections or changes (like director info or address) after incorporation.
6. Can I change the company name later?
Yes, by submitting the correct form and paying a fee to Companies House.
Conclusion
Setting up a company through Companies House is a straightforward process that gives your business legal structure, brand protection, and credibility. Follow the steps, stay compliant, and use this opportunity to build your venture with confidence in 2025.