Plain-English guidance for deciding on a company structure, preparing your application and understanding the responsibilities that begin once Companies House incorporates your business.
Check whether a limited company is the right structure, choose a compliant company name, decide who will be directors and shareholders, identify people with significant control and prepare your registered office and business-activity information.
Applicants provide personal and company details, complete identity and due-diligence checks, confirm lawful purpose and approve the company structure. Incorrect or inconsistent information can delay or prevent registration.
Your certificate confirms the company exists, while the memorandum, articles, share records and statutory register explain its initial legal structure. The company must then manage tax, accounting, banking and ongoing Companies House filings.
Most companies file annual accounts and a confirmation statement, maintain accurate registers and report specified changes. Separate HMRC deadlines can apply for Corporation Tax, VAT and PAYE.
