This guide is maintained as a current resource for November 2026 and covers only the laws of England and Wales. Information is for general guidance, not legal advice. Consult a qualified solicitor for advice specific to your situation.
Starting a business? Learn the exact process for registering your limited company with Companies House, including required documentation, ID verification, and your ongoing legal obligations.
Registering a limited company is a legal process that formally establishes your business as a separate legal entity under UK law. For anyone starting a business, understanding how to register with Companies House - the registrar of companies for the UK - is essential. This article explains the legal framework, practical steps, documentation requirements, timelines and common issues in clear, accessible language. It is accurate for England and Wales at the date of publication.
What is a Limited Company?
A limited company is a type of business structure where the company has a legal identity separate from its owners (shareholders) and directors. This structure provides limited liability: shareholders are typically only responsible for business debts up to the value of their investment. Most small and medium businesses in the UK choose this structure because it supports growth, investment and clear regulatory compliance.
Legally, a company cannot trade, sign contracts or open a business bank account until it has been incorporated with Companies House.
Legal and Practical Overview
When You Must Register
If you choose to operate an incorporated business, you must register with Companies House. This requirement exists under the Companies Act 2006 - the principal UK law governing company formation and regulation. Sole traders and partnerships do not register with Companies House, though they must notify HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) for tax purposes.
Types of Limited Company
The most common type registered is a private company limited by shares, suitable for businesses that sell products or services. Companies limited by guarantee are generally used for non‑profit organisations.
Step‑by‑Step Registration Process
1. Decide Your Company Structure
Confirm that a limited company suits your needs, considering liability, tax, and administrative obligations such as annual accounts and tax returns.
2. Choose a Company Name
Your company name must:
- Be unique (not the same as or too similar to another registered company).
- Comply with rules on sensitive words and restricted terms.
- Not infringe existing trademarks.
Companies House will reject names that fail these checks. You can test name availability on the Companies House online service before applying.
3. Establish a Registered Office Address
Every company must have a registered office address in the UK where official communications are sent. This address is public and must be capable of receiving legal documents.
If you prefer privacy, you can use a service address provided by an agent or accountant so your home address is not on the public register.
4. Appoint Directors and Shareholders
A private limited company must have at least one director and at least one shareholder. A director manages the company's operations and statutory filings. Shareholders own shares in the company and receive dividends.
You must also identify persons with significant control (PSCs) - people who own or control more than 25% of shares or voting rights.
5. Verify Identity (New Legal Requirement)
As of late 2025, mandatory identity verification of all directors and PSCs is required under the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act. Verification must be done before a new company is registered, otherwise the application can be rejected.
Directors receive a unique personal code after verification which must be used on the registration form. The process is free via GOV.UK One Login, but accountants or authorised service providers can assist if needed.
6. Prepare the Required Documents
You must prepare:
- Memorandum of Association – a legal statement signed by all initial shareholders agreeing to form the company.
- Articles of Association – the rules about running the company; model articles can be used if you do not draft your own.
- Statement of Capital (for companies limited by shares) or Statement of Guarantee (for companies limited by guarantee).
These documents form part of your application and confirm ownership and governance.
7. Complete the Application
You can register:
- Online using the Companies House Web Incorporation Service. Most applications complete within 24 hours. The standard fee is £100, payable by card.
- By post using form IN01. Post applications cost more (e.g. £124) and take longer - typically 8–10 days.
Online applications often also register your company for Corporation Tax with HMRC automatically.
8. Receive Your Certificate of Incorporation
Once accepted, Companies House issues a Certificate of Incorporation. This document confirms that your company legally exists, details the company number and date of formation, and is required to open a business bank account and work with clients and suppliers.
After Registration - Legal and Administrative Obligations
Once your company is registered, you must meet ongoing legal duties:
- File annual accounts with Companies House.
- Submit a confirmation statement at least once a year.
- Keep statutory registers, including director and shareholder details.
- Notify changes (such as director appointments, address changes) to Companies House promptly.
You must also register for Corporation Tax with HMRC within three months of starting to trade.
Common Risks and Pitfalls
Name rejections: Names can be rejected for similarity, profanity or restricted wording.
Incorrect documentation: Errors in addresses, SIC codes (business activity codes), or signatures delay processing.
Identity verification failures: Without completed identity checks, registration can be rejected and directors may face compliance issues.
Scam letters: Newly registered companies may receive unofficial and fraudulent letters demanding payment for services (for example, fake entries in the “Companies House Register”). These are scams - the UK register is free once formed.
Common Questions from our Readers
Do I need a solicitor to register a company?
No. Many business owners register directly online without legal help. Solicitors or accountants can assist if your situation is complex.
Can I use my home address?
Yes, but that address becomes public. Many businesses use virtual office services or their accountant's address for privacy.
Can a non‑UK resident register a UK company?
Yes, but you must appoint a director and use a UK registered address. Some non‑UK residents use authorised corporate service providers for identity verification.
Key Takeaways
Registering a limited company with Companies House is a legal process requiring careful preparation of documentation, identity verification for directors and PSCs, and a formal application either online or by post. Once incorporated, the company must comply with ongoing statutory duties and regulatory filings. Understanding each step and legal requirement helps avoid delays and ensures your business is established correctly under UK corporate law.
