Step 1: Choose your company name

Use our Company Name Search tool to check availability of your preferred name

Our simple company formation process

Search for a company name.

Step 1: Choose a company name

The first step to forming a limited company is to check if your company name is available. Enter the chosen name into our company name search tool above. If your first choice is already taken, just continue using the search tool until you find a name that is available.

Think about something that best describes your business activity or the core values of your company. And check if the corresponding domain name is available too. This will make it much easier for potential customers to find your business online.

Select a company package.

Step 2: Select a package

We offer 5 company formation packages for customers who want to set up a company for general trading. This type of company is commonly known as a limited company or company limited by shares. It's the most popular company structure in the UK.

We also provide packages for companies limited by guarantee (suitable for non-profit businesses) and limited liability partnerships (LLP). Plus, there are packages dedicated to non-residents, e-sellers (e-commerce specific) and a PLC Package for those who wish to set up a public liability company.

Checkout and pay for your order.

Step 3: Checkout

Proceed to the checkout where you will have the option of adding some handy extras to your basket, such as registered office, business address, guaranteed same-day company formation service and more.

After payment is made by debit or credit card, you will receive a purchase confirmation email, login details for your Online Company Manager and a receipted invoice.

Complete details to setup your company.

Step 4: Enter your company details

This final stage requires 5 minutes of your time to complete the online company incorporation application. The simple process walks you through selecting your registered office and appointing your director, shareholder and person of significant control. If you are unsure of something, call or chat with our friendly UK based team.

For guidance on what information you should have to hand, please read our Company Formation Checklist.

What Happens Next

1

Companies House

Once you have completed the 4 steps, your new company application will be sent to Companies House - the UK's registrar of companies - for approval.

Companies House usually take up to 24 hours to process applications, however, this is subject to Companies House workload, and sometimes it can take longer.

2

Your company is incorporated

Once your company has been incorporated, we will send your company formation documents, VAT invoice and Webfiling Authentication Code to you by email.

You will also find details about your free .co.uk domain name and any other services included with your purchase. If your order includes printed documents, these will be sent to you by post within 24 hours.

3

Business banking

If you have opted for the business bank account referral, you will receive an email once your company has been formed, which will include a link to your chosen bank to start your application. Some banks will open your account in minutes, others will take up to 5 days.

4

Run and grow your dream business

Now it's official - it's time to run and grow your dream business. 1st Formations will be with you every step of the way, offering post-incorporation support to ensure your success.

Are you ready to
set up your company?

Let's Get Started

Experience you can trust

With over 25,000 excellent reviews, see what our customers have to say

  • “The process of getting registered and options available made this a no-brainer! Thank you for making everything so simple.” (3 September 2024)

    IAN CAMPBELL

    Enlightenment Planning Ltd

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  • “I would like to thank the team of professionals at 1st Formations for being so quick in responding, so professional and super helpful! Thank you for providing such decent services for formatting own company.” (2 September 2024)

    OLGA KOSTINA

    Aster Partners Llp

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  • “Setting up my business was incredibly straightforward. The process was quick, the instructions were clear, and I felt supported every step of the way. Highly recommended for anyone looking to establish their company with ease!” (2 September 2024)

    ALEKSANDAR STOJMENOVIC

    Unusual Creations Ltd

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  • “Brilliant service even for a complete novice like me.” (11 September 2024)

    HELEN PRICE

    Helenxp Ltd

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  • “Was very easy and straightforward.” (11 September 2024)

    GRACE COLE

    D-Address Investments Ltd

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  • “So pleased with 1st Formations, that’s why I stay with them as they are very professional.” (10 September 2024)

    GJEVAT KELMENDI

    Littlebooking Ltd

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  • “Fast efficient service from start to finish.” (4 September 2024)

    CHRISTOPHER O'NEILL

    C4K Holdings Ltd

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  • “They were very clear with the requirements and the process was very smooth. Highly recommended!” (8 September 2024)

    AMBREEN AHMEDSattler

    Ubikomm Ltd

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  • “I found it to be ultra-convenient and efficient despite being miles away. I recommend these 1st Formations wholeheartedly.” (3 September 2024)

    RYAN STRACHAN

    Legacy Advisory Services Ltd

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  • “Overall, my experience with 1st Formation was excellent. They made the company formation process so simple and smooth, and their constant communication gave me complete peace of mind. ” (12 January 2024)

    Delphine Lheureux

    Prodcazaco Ltd

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We've come across plenty of clients using various registered office address services and some don't receive their post until weeks - or even months - later. So, we certainly feel like we're getting a great service.

Charlotte Wass, Beany UK View customer story
Charlotte Wass, Founder of Beany UK.