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Guides & insights

Everything you need to run a UK company.

194 guides on formation, tax, compliance and growth — written for people running the company, not for accountants.

Company Guides10 June 2026 · 5 min read

Is Voluntary VAT Registration Right for Your Business?

Even below the VAT threshold, voluntary registration can offer advantages — particularly if you deal with VAT-registered businesses. We help you decide.

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Company Guides

How to Check if a Company is Legitimate: Complete 2026 Guide

Protect yourself from fraud. This guide covers how to verify a UK company via Companies House and spot warning signs of illegitimate businesses.

10 June 2026 · 12 min read

Company Formation

LLPs: Combining Sole Trader Tax with Limited Company Protection

A Limited Liability Partnership gives you the flexibility of a partnership with the protection of a limited company. We explain how LLPs work and who they suit.

1 June 2026 · 10 min read

Company Guides

How to Close a Limited Company in the UK (2026)

Covering voluntary strike-off, Members' Voluntary Liquidation, and creditors' processes — your options when winding up a UK limited company.

31 May 2026 · 7 min read

Company Formation

Limited Company Articles of Association Explained [2026]

Understand what articles of association are, why they matter, and how to adopt model articles when forming your limited company.

28 May 2026 · 6 min read

Company Guides

Understanding the Companies House Fee Increase from February 2026

Companies House increased its fees significantly from 1 February 2026. We explain which fees changed and what this means for routine company filings.

28 May 2026 · 3 min read

Company Guides

6 Proven Models to Make Money Online in the UK (2026)

From freelancing to e-commerce, we outline six tried-and-tested business models for generating income online in the UK.

19 May 2026 · 8 min read

Company Guides

Capital Gains Tax Calculator 2026: How Much CGT Will You Pay?

Our CGT calculator helps individuals and business owners estimate their Capital Gains Tax liability based on current 2026 rates.

8 May 2026 · 2 min read

Company Guides

Shareholder Definition, Types, Roles and Rights Explained

Shareholders own a stake in your limited company and have specific legal rights. We explain the different types of shareholder and how to manage them.

29 April 2026 · 11 min read

Company Formation

6 Easy Steps to Set Up a Limited Company Online [2026 Guide]

Formation Direct makes registering a UK limited company fast and simple. Follow our six-step guide to go from idea to incorporated in hours.

15 April 2026 · 12 min read

Company Formation

Limited Company Memorandum of Association Explained [2026]

The memorandum of association is a founding document of your limited company. We explain what it contains and how it differs from articles of association.

15 April 2026 · 6 min read

Company Formation

Company Incorporation Fee at Companies House: What You Pay in 2026

The Companies House registration fee doubled to £100 in February 2026. We explain what it covers and what additional costs to budget for.

10 April 2026 · 1 min read

Company Guides

Company Registration Number (CRN) Explained

Your CRN is your company's unique identifier at Companies House. We explain where to find it, what it looks like, and when you must quote it.

9 April 2026 · 5 min read

Company Guides

How to Make Your Business Stand Out Through Branding

Strong branding is one of your most powerful business assets. We share practical advice on building a memorable brand identity.

9 April 2026 · 5 min read

Company Formation

Everything You Need to Know About a Director Service Address

A director service address appears on the Companies House register instead of your home address. We explain how it works and how Formation Direct can help.

25 March 2026 · 7 min read

Company Guides

Top Tips for Trading Successfully on Amazon and eBay

Online marketplaces offer immediate access to millions of buyers. We share essential advice for UK sellers on listings, pricing, and staying compliant.

24 March 2026 · 7 min read

Company Guides

How to Apply for a UTR Number from HMRC

Your Unique Taxpayer Reference is needed to file tax returns. We explain how to get one, how long it takes, and what to do if yours is lost.

21 March 2026 · 6 min read

Company Formation

How to Set Up a Business in the UK [2026]

From choosing the right legal structure to registering with Companies House and HMRC, this comprehensive guide walks you through every step.

19 March 2026 · 16 min read

Company Guides

UK Bank Holidays 2026: Dates, Entitlements and Planning Advice

A complete list of UK bank holidays for 2026, with practical advice for employers on holiday pay entitlements and business planning.

17 March 2026 · 4 min read

Company Guides

What are Shareholder Pre-Emption Rights?

Pre-emption rights give existing shareholders the first opportunity to buy new shares before they are offered externally. We explain how they work.

13 March 2026 · 2 min read

Company Guides

Government Gateway 2026: A Guide for Sole Traders and Ltd Companies

The Government Gateway gives you access to HMRC's online services. We explain how to register and use it to manage Corporation Tax, VAT, and PAYE.

8 March 2026 · 8 min read

Company Guides

How to Value Shares In a Private Company

Understanding share valuation is crucial for private companies. Learn the key methods and factors that influence share prices in the UK.

4 March 2026 · 5 min read

Company Formation

You've Formed Your Company — What Happens Next?

Incorporation is just the start. We walk you through the essential post-formation steps — HMRC registration, bank account opening, VAT, and getting ready to trade.

20 February 2026 · 7 min read

Accounting and Banking

What Is Corporation Tax and How Does It Work?

Corporation Tax is charged on your company's taxable profits. We explain the current rate, how it's calculated, when it must be paid, and how to register.

16 February 2026 · 3 min read

Company Formation

How to Start Affiliate Marketing in the UK (2026)

A practical guide to launching a profitable affiliate marketing business in the UK — covering platforms, tax obligations, and how to structure your venture correctly from day one.

13 February 2026 · 10 min read

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