Registering a limited company is simpler than most people expect. Here is what you need, step by step.
1. Choose your company name
Your name must not be the same as, or too like, an existing company, and some words need permission. Use our free company name availability check first. Companies House makes the final decision.
2. Pick a registered office address
Every company needs a registered office — an appropriate UK address where official post can be received. It appears on the public register.
3. Decide who runs and owns the company
- Directors run the company. You need at least one.
- Shareholders own the company. Many small companies start with one director who is also the only shareholder.
- People with significant control (PSCs) are usually anyone holding more than 25% of the shares or votes.
4. Verify identities
Since the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023, directors, PSCs and shareholders with 25% or more must have their identity verified. We arrange this online, or you can give us an existing Companies House personal code.
5. Submit to Companies House
We then file the application. Once everyone's ID checks are complete, most companies are registered by Companies House within 24–48 hours. When it is approved you receive your company number, authentication code and certificate of incorporation.
6. Know your first deadlines
- Confirmation statement — at least once every 12 months.
- First accounts — due to Companies House 21 months after incorporation.
- Corporation Tax — register with HMRC within 3 months of starting to trade; payment is usually due 9 months and 1 day after your accounting period ends.
- VAT and PAYE — only if you register for VAT or employ people (including paying yourself a salary).
Our portal tracks these dates for you and can email reminders. You remain responsible for filing and paying on time.
Form your company with Evolve
Evolve Business Assist Ltd is a UK bookkeeping, payroll and tax firm, registered with Companies House as an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP). Formation is £149 all-in, Companies House fee included, with plain-English help at every step. Start your company or read our FAQs.