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Starting a Limited Company in 10 Steps

1️⃣ Choose a Company Name
Check availability with Companies House.

2️⃣ Decide on Your Registered Office Address
Must be a UK address — home address or virtual office.

3️⃣ Appoint Directors and Shareholders
You need at least one director. You can also be the sole shareholder.

4️⃣ Register the Company
Apply directly with Companies House (£12 fee) or through a formation agent like Rapid Formations (around £55 + VAT).

5️⃣ Open a Business Bank Account
Free options like Mettle are available.

6️⃣ Set Up Accounting Software
FreeAgent is free with a Mettle account and covers invoicing, expenses, and tax.

7️⃣ Register for Corporation Tax
Notify HMRC within 3 months of starting business activity.

8️⃣ Consider VAT 
Register if turnover will exceed £90,000 or if registering voluntarily benefits you. And you may also wish to consider if the VAT Flat Rate Scheme is suitable. 

9️⃣ Sort Out Payroll (if needed) and dividends 
Set up PAYE if you’ll pay yourself a salary.

🔟 Stay Compliant
Keep good records, file your annual accounts, confirmation statement, corporation tax return, and personal tax return if needed.

Need help setting up your company?

At Neame & Co, we offer a free 30-minute consultation to talk through your plans and help you get started with confidence.

Contact us today — we'd be happy to help you build the right foundations for your business!