Photo: Companies House, Cardiff by No Swan So Fine, CC BY-SA 4.0
Setting up a limited company in the UK should be straightforward. We simplify every step — from choosing your legal structure to filing with Companies House — so you can start trading with confidence.
Operating as a properly registered limited company isn’t just a legal formality — it’s the foundation of a credible, investable business. Incorporation gives you personal liability protection, tax efficiencies, and the professional standing that customers, investors, and partners expect.
As a limited company, your personal finances are separate from your business — protecting your assets if things don’t go to plan.
Corporation Tax, dividend payments, and director salary structures can significantly reduce your overall tax liability compared to operating as a sole trader.
Investors, SEIS/EIS schemes, and institutional partners all require you to be a properly registered UK company before they’ll consider funding you.
A registered company number and Companies House listing signals professionalism and permanence to customers, suppliers, and partners alike.
Since 18 November 2025, every new director and person with significant control (PSC) must verify their identity with Companies House. Existing directors must verify by the time they file their company’s next confirmation statement.
We explain each step, check that everyone involved has verified, and make sure the right personal codes are on your filings.
Our fee and the Companies House fee are shown separately, so you always know who you are paying and for what.
| Item | Paid to |
|---|---|
| Incorporation support (structure advice, document preparation, filing, ID verification guidance) | Startup Help Squad |
| Companies House incorporation fee — online, standard | Companies House |
| Companies House incorporation fee — same-day service | Companies House |
Companies House fees are statutory fees paid to Companies House. See all plans on Get the Pricing.
Our streamlined process takes the complexity out of company formation — from choosing your structure to receiving your certificate of incorporation.
We’ll guide you through the most appropriate company structure for your business — whether that’s a private limited company (Ltd), limited liability partnership (LLP), or another registered entity. We consider your industry, funding plans, and long-term goals to recommend the right fit.
Our team prepares and reviews all required documentation, including your Articles of Association, Memorandum of Association, and the Companies House incorporation application (Form IN01). Every document is checked for accuracy and legal compliance before submission.
We file your application directly with Companies House via our Formation Book platform, which streamlines the online filing process and minimises delays. Companies House usually processes online applications within 24 hours, although it can take longer.
Once approved, you’ll receive your Certificate of Incorporation, company registration number, and all founding documents. We’ll also advise on next steps — from opening a business bank account to registering for VAT and PAYE.
Expert guidance on choosing the right company type — Ltd, LLP, or otherwise — based on your sector, co-founder arrangements, and investment ambitions.
We prepare and review all statutory documents for completeness and accuracy before submission — ensuring there are no delays or rejections from Companies House.
Use our integrated Formation Book platform for a streamlined, fully digital filing experience — no printing, scanning, or posting required.
We’ll advise on setting up a business bank account, introduce you to our partner providers, and help you understand the options available to early-stage companies.
Understand your obligations from day one. We advise on when and how to register for VAT, PAYE, and other tax requirements relevant to your business model.
Incorporation is just the beginning. Our team can help with confirmation statements, identity verification for new directors and any future structural changes your business requires.
Don’t put off the foundations. Get incorporated quickly, correctly, and with complete confidence — then start building.
