Every year, over 750,000 new companies are registered with Companies House, the UK’s official registrar of companies. Whether you’re starting your first limited company or taking your side hustle to the next level, registering with Companies House is the first legal step in turning your idea into a recognised business entity.
But if you’ve ever glanced at the Companies House website and felt a little lost, you’re not the only one. From choosing the right business structure to understanding what a “SIC code” even is, the process can seem daunting—until you break it down.
This guide will walk you through each step of registering your business with Companies House. Whether you’re a solo founder, launching a startup, or forming a company on behalf of international investors, you’ll learn exactly what you need, what it costs, and what to expect, without wading through legal jargon or making avoidable mistakes.
Let’s get you officially on the books.
Choose Your Company Structure
Before you can register your business with Companies House, you’ll need to decide on your company structure. This step determines how your business will be legally recognised and what requirements you’ll need to meet post-registration.
For most people registering with Companies House, the most relevant options are:
- Private Limited Company (Ltd) – The most common choice. Offers limited liability, a separate legal identity, and is suitable for most startups and growing businesses.
- Limited Liability Partnership (LLP) – Ideal for two or more professionals starting a service-based business. Offers shared management with limited liability.
- Public Limited Company (PLC) – Suitable only for large businesses planning to raise capital publicly. Requires higher compliance and a minimum share capital.
If you’re a sole trader or in a traditional partnership, you’ll register with HMRC instead, not Companies House.
Once you’ve chosen your structure, most likely a Private Limited Company, you’re ready to begin the registration process.
Steps to Register Your Business with Companies House
Registering your business with Companies House is straightforward, but there are a few important steps to get right. Here’s a clear breakdown of the full process:
Step 1: Choose a Company Name
Choosing the right company name is crucial because it’s not just your brand’s first impression, it’s also a legal identity. A unique name helps avoid confusion with other businesses, protects your brand from potential disputes, and ensures your company stands out in the market.
If your name is too similar to an existing registered company, Companies House will reject your application, causing delays and frustration. To make sure your company name complies with UK regulations, it must meet several important criteria:
- It must be unique (not the same as or too similar to an existing registered company).
- Avoid sensitive or restricted words (like “Bank,” “Royal,” or “Trust”) unless you have approval.
- It can’t be offensive or misleading.
Tip: Use the Companies House name availability checker before you commit.
Also, think ahead. Check if the domain name and social handles are available to match your business name.
Step 2: Decide on a Registered Office Address
Your registered office address is the official location where Companies House, HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC), and other government bodies send all important legal and statutory documents related to your company.
This address is publicly accessible through the Companies House register, so it’s crucial to choose an address that you’re comfortable making public. It also serves as the formal point of contact for any legal notices, tax documents, and correspondence related to your business.
Ensuring this address is accurate and regularly monitored will help you stay compliant and avoid missing critical communications.
- Must be a physical UK address (PO boxes are not allowed).
- Will appear on the public Companies House register.
- Can be your home address or a separate business address for privacy.
Don’t have a physical office in the UK? No problem, you can use a virtual office service or a company formation agent that provides address services.
Step 3: Appoint at Least One Director
A company director plays a crucial role as the person legally responsible for overseeing the business operations. They ensure the company complies with all legal obligations, such as submitting annual accounts and confirmation statements to Companies House.
Directors make key strategic decisions, manage company finances, and act in the company’s best interests. This role carries legal responsibilities and potential liabilities, which is why choosing a reliable and capable director is essential for your company’s success.
- Directors must be over 16 years old.
- You don’t need to be a UK resident to be a director.
- You can appoint yourself as the sole director.
You’ll need to provide each director’s full name, date of birth, residential address (kept private), and service address (shown publicly).
Step 4: Define Your Company’s Business Activity (SIC Code)
Every business registered with Companies House must list one or more Standard Industrial Classification (SIC) codes. These codes categorise your company’s main activities and help government agencies and other organisations understand what your business does.
Choosing the right SIC code is important because it affects official records, tax classifications, and eligibility for certain grants or industry-specific support.
- Choose the code(s) that best describe what your company does.
- You can find the full list on the UK SIC code list.
For example, an IT consulting company might use code 62020 – Information technology consultancy activities.
Step 5: Prepare Your Memorandum and Articles of Association
When setting up your company, you must prepare two essential legal documents that define its formation and governance:
- Memorandum of Association: This is a straightforward document signed by all initial shareholders (also called subscribers). It confirms their agreement to create the company and take at least one share each. This document is submitted once during registration and then kept as a permanent record.
- Articles of Association: Think of this as your company’s internal rulebook. It outlines how the company will be run, including important details like how decisions are made, voting rights of shareholders, how dividends are paid, appointment and powers of directors, and procedures for meetings.
Most small businesses opt for the standard “model articles” provided by Companies House, which are designed to cover common scenarios. However, if your business has specific needs or a complex structure, you can customise the articles to suit your requirements.
Ensuring these documents are correctly prepared is vital, as they form the legal backbone of your company’s operations and relationships.
Step 6: Register with Companies House
Once you have all your documents and details ready, the next crucial step is to officially register your company with Companies House. This is the formal process that makes your business legally recognised in the UK.
- Register Online (recommended):
Visit the Companies House Web Incorporation Service to start. The online application costs just £12 and is usually approved within 24 hours. - Register by Post (Form IN01):
Costs £40 and takes 8–10 days to process. Only necessary if you’re registering a more complex structure (e.g. PLCs or using bespoke articles).
You’ll need to provide:
- Company name and registered office address
- Details of directors and shareholders
- SIC code(s)
- Memorandum and Articles of Association
- Statement of capital (if shares are being issued)
- Your chosen accounting reference date
Once submitted and approved, you’ll receive a Certificate of Incorporation confirming your company is legally formed.
Step 7: Register for Corporation Tax with HMRC
Registering your company for Corporation Tax is a legal requirement and a vital step to keep your business compliant. HMRC needs to know when your company starts trading so it can correctly assess your tax obligations.
Failure to register within three months of starting business activities can lead to fines and penalties, which can add unnecessary costs and complications.
- You must register your company for Corporation Tax via the HMRC website.
- After incorporation, HMRC automatically sends your company’s Unique Taxpayer Reference (UTR) by post—this is essential for registration.
- Use this UTR to complete the Corporation Tax registration online.
- Keep records of your income and expenses from day one to make filing easier.
Completing this step promptly ensures your company stays on the right side of tax laws and avoids penalties.
What’s Next After Registration?
Registering your company with Companies House is a major milestone, but it’s just the beginning of your business journey. Once your company is officially set up, there are several important tasks to focus on to keep your business compliant and running smoothly.
Set Up Your Company Records
You are legally required to maintain accurate and up-to-date company records. This includes a register of directors, shareholders, and company charges. Keeping your records organised helps with transparency and makes annual reporting easier.
Understand Your Filing Deadlines
Your company must file a Confirmation Statement (previously Annual Return) and Annual Accounts with Companies House each year. Missing these deadlines can lead to fines or even strike-off proceedings, so mark your calendar early.
Open a Business Bank Account
Separate your personal and business finances by opening a dedicated business bank account. This simplifies accounting and strengthens your company’s professional credibility.
Register for VAT (If Applicable)
If your company’s taxable turnover exceeds the current VAT threshold (which is £85,000 as of 2025), you must register for VAT with HMRC. Even if you’re below the threshold, voluntary registration can have benefits, like reclaiming VAT on business purchases.
Set Up a Payroll System
If you plan to hire employees or pay yourself a salary, you need to register as an employer with HMRC and set up a payroll system to handle income tax and National Insurance contributions correctly.
Plan Your Tax and Accounting
Consider working with an accountant to help manage Corporation Tax returns, payroll, VAT submissions, and other financial obligations. Good accounting practices will save you time, reduce errors, and help maximise your profits.
Review Your Business Insurance Needs
Depending on your industry, you may be legally required to have certain types of insurance, such as Employers’ Liability insurance. Additionally, consider policies like public liability, professional indemnity, and business interruption cover.
Taking these steps after registration will set a solid foundation for your company’s success and compliance, helping you avoid costly penalties and focus on growing your business confidently.
Let EMS Handle Your UK Company Setup
Need a quick, compliant way to register your business in the UK? EMS Global takes care of everything, perfect for UK and international founders.
- Fast Companies House registration
- UK address, UTR & tax setup
- Legal and compliance support
Start with EMS Global and get incorporated, without the hassle.
Wrapping Up: Start Smart, Stay Compliant
Registering your company with Companies House is the first formal step in your entrepreneurial journey. It transforms your idea into a legally recognised business entity and opens the doors to banking, funding, contracting, and scaling. By carefully following each step, from selecting a name to filing your Corporation Tax, you not only avoid costly mistakes but also build a strong legal foundation for long-term success.
But let’s be honest, handling incorporation, tax registration, and compliance paperwork can be overwhelming, especially if you’re busy refining your product or service. That’s where experienced company formation agents can make all the difference.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Do I need a UK address to register a company with Companies House?
Yes, you must provide a UK-based registered office address. However, this doesn’t need to be your trading location, it can be a virtual office or your accountant’s address. - Can I register a UK company if I’m not a UK resident?
Non-UK residents can register a UK company as long as they provide a valid UK registered office address and meet director/shareholder requirements. - How long does it take to register a company online?
Most online registrations through Companies House are approved within 24 hours, provided all details are correctly submitted. - What is a SIC code, and how do I choose one?
A SIC (Standard Industrial Classification) code identifies your business activity. Choose the code that most closely matches what your company will do. You can list more than one if needed. - Do I need to hire an accountant from the start?
Not necessarily, but working with an accountant early on can simplify Corporation Tax registration, bookkeeping, VAT, and payroll. It’s a smart investment for compliance and peace of mind.
