Thinking of starting a business? One of the first things you’ll need to know about is how to properly register it, especially if it’s a limited company.
In this guide, we’ll cover all the essentials you need to know about UK company incorporation. This includes what it is, the steps to do it and what documents you’ll need to complete the process.
So, let’s get started.
Incorporation is the process of registering a new business as a limited company. This is a legal entity which has a separate identity from the business owner.
You can’t run a limited company in the UK unless you’ve incorporated it at Companies House. This is an executive agency of the British Government, which is responsible for maintaining the register of companies in the UK.
| 💡 Read more: How to start a business in the United Kingdom |
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In the UK, there are three different ways you can incorporate a company¹:
In all cases, you’ll need to complete an application form including all the required details about your business and its owners. You’ll also need to provide a number of supporting documents, which we’ll look at next.
Lastly, there’s a small fee to pay of between £10 and £40¹, depending which application method you use.
When you submit your application form (form IN01¹), you’ll also need to provide the following incorporation documents¹:
There are a few different types of limited company you can form with incorporation in the UK¹:
| If you want to explore more topics and contents related to starting a business in the UK, have a look into some other articles that can come in handy: |
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Here at Wise we've made it easier to set up a limited company and manage your international finances at the same time.
Our company formation solution will let you form a new limited company run by a sole shareholder. And at the same time, you’ll get a powerful Wise Business account with an international debit card and the opportunity to manage your money in 50+ currencies.
It’ll be quick and simple to apply, for a fee of just £55. Your application will be handled by an approved company formation agent, who will securely send your application to Companies House.
So, you can focus on getting your new business off the ground.
Set up your limited company
with Wise 🚀
After reading this, you should have a better idea of what UK company incorporation is. We’ve looked at company types, how to apply, fees and the key documents you’ll need.
Sources used:
Sources last checked on date: 13-Feb-2023
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This publication is provided for general information purposes and does not constitute legal, tax or other professional advice from Wise Payments Limited or its subsidiaries and its affiliates, and it is not intended as a substitute for obtaining advice from a financial advisor or any other professional.
We make no representations, warranties or guarantees, whether expressed or implied, that the content in the publication is accurate, complete or up to date.
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