How to register a business in the UK

Businesses are of many types - sole proprietorships, limited and unlimited companies, partnerships and many more. Whatever the business type, UK laws demand that every business be registered to ensure compliance with tax requirements and other essential provisions. Registering a business in the UK can be done at Companies House offices or online upon payment of a small fee to company registration agencies.

What is needed before business registration?

Before registering a business, one must check the availability of the name that you intend to use for the company. The law does not allow two distinct companies to share the same name. This is done to prevent controversies which may arise from either company towards the law. If there is a match, a minor manipulation can offer you a unique business name. Other required documents includes business address, director details and shareholder details, if applicable.

The registration

To register a business, one complies with the needs of HM Revenue & Customs. This prevents the chances of the business attracting a penalty from violation of laws. Business registration ensures that Companies House recognise your business as a legally operating entity. Registration can follow either of the three routes: Online company formation agents This is the easiest method to register a company. An individual does not need to visit the Companies House in person. The registering companies are accepted by Companies House to collect and present registration details of a new business owner. The advantage of this method is that one can do the registration online at the comfort of your business. One only needs to provide a unique name and other details pertinent to the business. The registration takes a short time upon payment of a small fee to the online companies agents.
Companies House paper forms One can collect and fill business incorporation forms from Companies House to request business registration. One must attach supporting documents and mail the form back to Companies House. The registration is completed within a short period. Companies House Web Incorporation service This allows one to register a business directly with Companies House without the use of agents. Visiting the site allows you to fill in required business formation details and the company is registered instantly.