LLC Requirements in the UK – Simple Guide for Starting a Limited Company

Thinking about setting up an LLC (called a Limited Company in the UK) but not sure where to start? You’re not alone. Most new founders get stuck on paperwork before they even get to their first sale. This guide cuts through the noise and shows you the exact steps you need to take, plus the ongoing duties you can’t ignore.

Core steps to set up an LLC

Here’s the checklist you’ll follow from day one to the moment you get your certificate of incorporation:

• Pick a unique name. It must not be the same as an existing company and can’t contain sensitive words without permission.
• Choose a registered office address. This is the official address Companies House will use. It can be a business address or a virtual office service.
• Appoint at least one director. Directors must be at least 16 years old and not disqualified. You can be the sole director if you wish.
• Decide on shareholders and share capital. You need at least one shareholder and a minimum of one share. The amount of capital can be as low as £1, but most founders start with £100 or £1,000 to look more credible.
• Prepare the Memorandum and Articles of Association. These are standard templates unless you need custom rules. The documents outline how the company will run.
• Register online with Companies House. Use the WebFiling service or a third‑party provider. The fee is £12 for online filing, £40 by post.
• Get a company registration number. Once approved, you’ll receive a certificate showing your company is legally formed.

After registration, you’ll also need to set up a business bank account and, if you expect a turnover over the VAT threshold (£85,000 as of 2025), register for VAT.

Ongoing compliance you can’t ignore

Creating the company is just the beginning. The UK government expects you to keep a few things up to date, otherwise you risk fines or even being struck off.

• Annual Confirmation Statement. File this every 12 months. It confirms your company details haven’t changed.
• Annual Accounts. Submit financial statements to Companies House and HMRC. Small companies can use a simplified format.
• Corporation Tax Return. File a CT600 within 12 months of your accounting period end and pay any tax due.
• Maintain statutory registers. Keep records of directors, shareholders, and people with significant control (PSC) up to date.
• Payroll and PAYE. If you hire staff, set up a PAYE scheme and report wages to HMRC each month.

Missing any of these deadlines can lead to penalties that eat into your profit. A good habit is to calendar the filing dates as soon as you get your incorporation certificate.

That’s the whole picture in plain English: pick a name, register, appoint directors, set share capital, file the paperwork, then stay on top of annual filings. Follow this roadmap and you’ll have a compliant LLC without the usual headaches.

Got a specific question about one of the steps? Drop a comment or reach out – the community at Midlands Business Hub loves helping founders get their companies off the ground.