Frequently Asked Questions

Annual reporting for UK companies involves preparing and submitting financial statements and a confirmation statement to Companies House. Deadlines vary: accounts are usually due 9 months after the financial year-end for private companies (6 months for public companies), and the confirmation statement is due every 12 months.

Making Tax Digital (MTD) is a UK government initiative requiring businesses and individuals to keep digital tax records and file returns using MTD-compatible software. It became compulsory for VAT-registered businesses from April 2019 (full roll-out April 2022), and from April 2026 it will be mandatory for sole traders, landlords and self-employed individuals with gross income over £50,000.

You must register for VAT when your taxable turnover exceeds the threshold (currently £90,000). Voluntary registration below this can be beneficial if you incur VAT on business expenses, as you can reclaim it. However, it also means charging VAT to customers and extra admin, so assess your situation carefully.

A company formation agent helps register your business with Companies House. We ensure compliance with UK law, offer guidance through the incorporation process, and assist with post-formation needs like registered office services, statutory documents, and more making it quicker and easier than doing it yourself.

A sole trader is personally liable for business debts, while a limited company is a separate legal entity that protects your personal assets. Limited companies may benefit from tax efficiencies, such as dividends, and can appear more credible to clients. Legal and accounting obligations differ significantly.

We handle the entire company formation process for you. After choosing a package, we’ll prepare and submit your application to Companies House. Incorporation usually takes a few hours during working days. Our services ensure everything is legally compliant and that your company starts on solid legal footing.

We specialise in UK company formations and provide reliable, fast service backed by legal compliance. Our simple online platform and tailored packages make incorporation easy, even for first-time directors. Our team ensures accuracy and offers ongoing support for your company’s legal and administrative needs.

Anyone aged 16 or over can be a company director unless disqualified under the Company Directors Disqualification Act 1986. You need a UK registered office address. While not legally required, appointing a company secretary is optional. Some services we offer can provide a registered office if needed.

If submitted during Companies House hours (Mon–Fri, 9am–5pm), most applications are processed within 3–5 hours. We can pre-check your information for compliance if required, then file directly. Delays may occur if Companies House experiences high volumes or identifies issues in your submission.

These documents define your company’s constitution. The memorandum confirms the intent to form a company, while the articles set out how it will be run. We provide standard templates suitable for most trading companies, ensuring your company complies with the Companies Act 2006.

The certificate of incorporation is an official Companies House document confirming your company’s legal existence. It includes your company number and date of incorporation. This certificate is often required for opening a business bank account and conducting formal transactions.

Your name must be unique and not too similar to existing companies. It cannot be offensive and must comply with rules around “sensitive” words, which may require approval. “Limited” or “Ltd” must appear in the name unless exemptions apply. Use the Companies House name availability tool to check.

A Limited Liability Company (LLC) offers financial protection by limiting personal liability to the capital invested, unlike sole traders who risk personal assets. LLCs are managed by directors and owned by shareholders. If the business fails, shareholders only lose their paid-up share value. Types include:

1. Private Limited Company (Ltd) – Ideal for startups; offers asset protection, minimal setup requirements, and flexibility in ownership structure.
2. Public Limited Company (PLC) – Can trade shares publicly, must meet higher capital and regulatory requirements; often formed when businesses grow.
3. Limited Liability Partnership (LLP) – Best for professionals like lawyers or accountants; profits taxed as personal income and managed through a partnership agreement.
4. Company Limited by Guarantee (CLG) – Used for non-profit organizations; members’ liability is limited, typically to £1, and profits are reinvested.
5. Community Interest Company (CIC) – Aims to benefit the community; offers shareholder protection and director compensation, with asset locks to ensure long-term impact.

Each form is registered with Companies House and offers different advantages based on business goals, size, and structure.