Starting a business is exciting. But getting your company registered properly is not just a box to tick - it sets the tone for how your business operates, how it is taxed, and how others see you.
A simple mistake in the setup stage can cause delays, missed claims, or admin headaches later. That is why it pays to understand what is involved in company formation and what steps come next once you have your certificate of incorporation.
This blog explains how to register a company in the UK, the decisions you need to make along the way, and what you need to do after incorporation to keep things running smoothly.
Registering a company means forming a legal business entity that is separate from you as an individual. In the UK, this is done through Companies House, the government body that manages company records.
When you register a company, you are creating a limited company structure. This means the company:
Has its own legal identity
Can enter contracts in its own name
Has its own bank account and tax profile
Limits personal liability for its directors and shareholders
It is not the same as being a sole trader. A limited company comes with more responsibility, but also more flexibility and credibility.
Before you register your company, there are several important decisions to make:
Choose a company name: Your company name must be unique and not too similar to an existing company. It should not include restricted words or imply a connection to government or a regulated industry unless approved.
You can check name availability on the Companies House website.
Decide on your registered office address: This must be a UK address and will appear on the public record. It can be your home address, a business premises, or a virtual office service.
Choose directors: Every company must have at least one director. This is the person legally responsible for running the company and meeting its obligations.
Decide on shareholders and share structure: You will need to name the shareholders and decide how many shares they each hold. Even if you are the only shareholder, you must issue at least one share.
Select your SIC code: This is the code that describes your company’s main business activity. You can choose more than one if your business covers multiple areas.
Create a memorandum and articles of association: These are standard documents that outline how the company will be run. Most companies use the model articles provided by Companies House.
Once these details are confirmed, you are ready to register.
You can register your company:
Directly through Companies House online
Through an agent or formation service
Through your accountant
The process is usually completed in less than 24 hours if submitted online. Once registered, you will receive:
A certificate of incorporation
A company number
Confirmation of your registered details
This information will also appear on the public register.
Once your company is registered, there are a few essential next steps. These include:
Register with HMRC: HMRC will send you a letter with your company’s Unique Taxpayer Reference (UTR). This is used for Corporation Tax, Self Assessment, and other filings. You must register for Corporation Tax within three months of starting to trade.
Open a business bank account: You will need to open a business bank account in the company’s name. This is important for separating personal and business finances.
Set up bookkeeping and accounting systems: Now is the time to choose your accounting software or appoint a bookkeeper. Do not wait until year end—set it up from the beginning so your records are clean and consistent.
Understand your tax responsibilities: Your company may need to register for VAT, depending on turnover and activity. You will also need to file annual accounts and a Confirmation Statement each year.
Plan how you will pay yourself: As a director, you can take a salary, dividends, or both. Each option has tax implications. Make sure you understand how to do this correctly and legally.
Get insurance and any licences needed: Some industries require specific licences or insurance. Check what applies to your business and make sure you are covered.
Create a simple admin calendar: Track important deadlines like your accounting year end, VAT returns, and Confirmation Statement dates. This keeps you ahead of your obligations and avoids penalties.
Setting up a company is straightforward, but there are several traps we see new business owners fall into. These include:
Using your home address without considering privacy
Choosing the wrong SIC code
Registering but not notifying HMRC when trading starts
Mixing personal and company expenses
Forgetting to file a Confirmation Statement
Waiting too long to set up a bookkeeping system
Assuming everything is handled once the company is formed
None of these mistakes are difficult to fix, but they can cause real issues later. A bit of structure up front saves time, stress, and money.
At Allied Financial Group, we do more than just form companies. We help you build a setup that makes sense from day one. That includes:
Registering your limited company and advising on structure
Helping you choose the right share setup and SIC codes
Handling HMRC registration and tax notifications
Setting up cloud accounting software
Managing VAT registration and advice if needed
Providing support with payroll, bookkeeping, and annual accounts
Offering joined-up advice on how to run your company efficiently
We take care of the compliance so you can focus on building your business. Whether you are launching your first company or setting up a new venture alongside an existing one, we will make sure your foundation is solid.
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