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.
The Ultimate Guide to Starting a Website Design Business
Web design is a lucrative skill-based business you can run from anywhere. We cover structuring your services, pricing, contracts, and finding clients.
7 August 2024 · 8 min read
How Many Shares Should You Issue When Forming Your Company?
There's no legal minimum number of shares, but your decision affects ownership, future investment, and profit distribution. We explain the considerations.
31 July 2024 · 4 min read
Sole Trader vs Limited Company: Which is Right for You?
Choosing between sole trader and limited company status is one of the most important early decisions. We compare tax, liability, admin, and flexibility.
31 July 2024 · 5 min read
Low-Cost Business Start-Up Ideas for UK Entrepreneurs
You don't need significant capital to launch a profitable business. We share ideas you can start on a shoestring and structure as a legitimate UK company.
28 July 2024 · 7 min read
How to Build a Successful Business Team for Your Limited Company
Hiring the right people and building a cohesive team is one of the biggest drivers of business success. We share hiring strategies and legal obligations.
19 July 2024 · 7 min read
A Guide to Maintaining Your Limited Company Statutory Registers
Limited companies must maintain registers of members, directors, and PSCs. We explain what each register must contain and how to keep them up to date.
13 July 2024 · 6 min read
What's the Fastest Way to Incorporate a Business in the UK?
Same-day incorporation is possible with the right approach. We walk through the fastest legal route to form a UK limited company.
5 July 2024 · 10 min read
What is Company Liquidation? A Plain-English Guide
Liquidation brings a company to an end by selling its assets and paying creditors. We explain the different types and what directors should expect.
1 June 2024 · 3 min read
When is Limited Liability the Right Move for Your Business?
Limited liability protects your personal assets if your business fails. We explain when incorporation makes the most sense and compare the alternatives.
24 May 2024 · 3 min read
5 Reasons to Use a Company Formation Agent
Using a professional formation agent like Formation Direct offers significant advantages in speed, accuracy, and post-incorporation support.
26 April 2024 · 3 min read
Do I Need to Inform HMRC After Forming a New Limited Company?
Yes — HMRC must be notified within three months of your company beginning to trade. We explain how to register for Corporation Tax, PAYE, and VAT.
20 April 2024 · 3 min read
UK Correspondence Address vs Residential Address: Key Differences
Understand the difference between a correspondence address and a residential address and why using a professional address protects your privacy.
17 April 2024 · 7 min read
Why Shelf Companies Have Lost Their Appeal — And What to Do Instead
Shelf companies once offered a ready-aged business history, but post-ECCT Act reforms have largely removed that advantage. We explain the alternatives.
4 March 2024 · 7 min read
A Guide to Corporation Tax for Your Limited Company
Corporation Tax is payable on your company's profits. We explain the current rate, deductible expenses, how to register with HMRC, and when payment is due.
3 February 2024 · 6 min read
The Documents You Receive When Setting Up a Limited Company
After incorporation, you'll receive several important documents. We explain what each one is, what to do with it, and where to store it safely.
25 January 2024 · 3 min read
How to Set Up Best Practice Guidelines for Your Company
Clear operational guidelines help your company function consistently and compliantly as it grows. We explain how to create a framework that protects your business.
10 January 2024 · 5 min read
How to Change Your Company's Director Service Address
A director's service address appears publicly on the Companies House register. We explain how to change it and why many directors opt for a professional address.
21 December 2023 · 7 min read
Accounting Reference Date (ARD) for Limited Companies Explained
Your accounting reference date determines when your annual accounts are due. We explain how to find your ARD, how to change it, and the implications.
5 December 2023 · 4 min read
What is a Limited Company? A Complete Guide
A limited company is one of the most popular business structures in the UK. We explain what it means, the types available, and why it may be right for you.
9 November 2023 · 14 min read
A Guide to Forming Your Own Charity in England and Wales
Setting up a charity requires careful planning. This guide walks through legal structures, registration requirements, and ongoing governance obligations.
7 November 2023 · 7 min read
Aggregate Nominal Value of Shares Explained
When filing with Companies House, you'll need to declare the aggregate nominal value of shares. We explain what this means and how to calculate it.
25 September 2023 · 4 min read
Formation Direct Company Formation Packages: A Comprehensive Guide
We explain what's included in each of our company formation packages — from our Digital Package to our fully inclusive Ultimate Package.
14 September 2023 · 9 min read
UK Standard Industrial Classification (SIC) Code Explained
SIC codes are essential when registering your company. Find out what they are and how to choose the right one for your business.
30 June 2023 · 4 min read
Companies House Registered Office Address Requirements Explained
Your registered office must meet strict criteria set by Companies House. We explain the rules and the consequences of non-compliance.
17 June 2023 · 4 min read
Page 3 of 4 · 78 guides in Company Formation