1. What Is Companies House?
Companies House is the UK government’s official registrar of companies. Every limited company must be registered with Companies House to legally operate.
2. Why Register a Company?
- Creates a separate legal entity for your business
- Protects your business name from being used by others
- Limits your personal liability
- Improves credibility with clients, investors, and lenders
- Makes it easier to raise funding
3. Types of Companies You Can Register
- Private company limited by shares (Ltd) – Most common, shareholders own shares.
- Private company limited by guarantee – Usually for non-profits.
- Public limited company (PLC) – Can sell shares to the public.
- Limited liability partnership (LLP) – Combines partnership flexibility with limited liability.
4. Requirements to Register a Company
- A unique company name
- A UK registered office address
- At least one director (aged 16+)
- At least one shareholder or guarantor
- Articles of association (rules for running the company)
- Standard Industrial Classification (SIC) code (business activity type)
- Share structure (for limited by shares companies)
5. How to Register a Company on Companies House
Step 1: Choose a Company Name
- Must be unique and not too similar to existing names.
- Avoid sensitive words without approval.
Step 2: Decide on Structure
- Most choose a private limited company (Ltd).
Step 3: Prepare Company Details
- Director and shareholder information
- Share allocation
- Registered office address
Step 4: File Incorporation Documents
Submit online via the Companies House website or by post:
- Form IN01 (if applying by post)
- Memorandum of association
- Articles of association
Step 5: Pay the Registration Fee
- Online application: £12 (usually approved within 24 hours).
- Postal application: £40 (8–10 days).
- Same-day registration: £100 (if filed before 3pm).
Step 6: Receive Certificate of Incorporation
This confirms your company is officially registered and includes:
- Company name
- Company number
- Date of incorporation
6. Post-Registration Responsibilities
- Register for Corporation Tax with HMRC (within 3 months).
- Set up a business bank account.
- Maintain company records (directors, shareholders, decisions).
- File annual accounts and a confirmation statement with Companies House.
- Pay Corporation Tax and submit tax returns.
7. Advantages of Registering a Company
- Limited liability protection
- Greater credibility and professionalism
- Tax advantages compared to sole traders
- Easier to raise investment and funding
8. Disadvantages of Registering a Company
- More administration and reporting duties
- Public disclosure of company information
- Directors must comply with strict legal duties
- Setup costs compared to sole trader registration
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How much does it cost to register a company on Companies House?
£12 online, £40 by post, or £100 for same-day registration.
2. How long does registration take?
24 hours online, up to 10 days by post.
3. Can I register a company myself?
Yes, you can apply directly through Companies House without using an agent.
4. Do I need a business bank account?
Yes, a limited company must have a separate business account.
5. Do I need an accountant to register?
No, but using one helps with compliance and ongoing tax obligations.
6. What happens after I register my company?
You’ll receive a Certificate of Incorporation and must register for Corporation Tax.
Conclusion
To register a company on Companies House, you’ll need a unique name, company structure, director details, and the required documents. With online applications costing just £12 and usually approved within 24 hours, the process is quick and straightforward. Once registered, you must meet ongoing legal and tax obligations to keep your company in good standing.