How to set up a limited company in the UK

Setting up a private limited company (Ltd) in the UK is done online with Companies House and usually takes less than 24 hours.

What you need

• A company name that isn't the same as an existing one (search it on UK Company Lookup first) and that ends in "Limited" or "Ltd".
• A registered office address in the same part of the UK where you register (England and Wales, Scotland or Northern Ireland).
• At least one director aged 16 or over, who must verify their identity with Companies House.
• At least one shareholder, and details of people with significant control (PSCs).
• One or more SIC codes describing what the company does (see the SIC code list).
• Memorandum and articles of association (most people use the model articles).

How to register

Apply online on GOV.UK ("Set up a limited company") or through a company formation agent or accountant. Pay the registration fee shown on GOV.UK. Once approved, you receive a certificate of incorporation with your company number.

After incorporation

• Register for Corporation Tax with HMRC within 3 months of starting to trade.
• Register for VAT if taxable turnover goes above the VAT threshold.
• Set up PAYE if you pay employees or yourself a salary.
• Open a business bank account and keep company records.
• File a confirmation statement every year and annual accounts every year (see our confirmation statement guide).