Author
Mark C
- 1st January 2026
Best Company Registration UK (2026): Ultimate Guide to Forming Your Company
Looking for the best company registration service in the UK? Whether you’re launching a new venture or switching from sole trader status, choosing the best way to register a company online is a crucial first step. A reliable provider can save you time, reduce paperwork, and keep you compliant with Companies House and HMRC from day one.
In this guide, we break down the best online company registration options available in the market today. We compare three top-rated providers: Tide, ANNA Money, and 1st Formations — each known for delivering some of the best company formation services in the UK. You’ll discover features, pricing, pros and cons, and exclusive startup offers to help you choose the best company formation agent for your business goals.
Best Company Registration Deals:
Anna Money
Company Registration- Affordable company formation service
- Registered office address in London (optional)
- Mail forwarding and document scanning (optional)
- Meeting room hire and call answering
Tide
Company Registration- £200 cashback reward*
- 70% cheaper than companies house
- Receive certificate of incorporation & set up within 1 business day
- Free Business Bank account at registration
1st Formations
Company Registration- Includes £50 Companies House Fee
- Expert-led UK company formation service
- Fast and hassle-free online company formation setup
- Prestigious business addresses
What Is Company Registration?
Company registration — also known as company formation or incorporation — is the legal process of creating a new business entity in the UK. Most entrepreneurs choose to register as a private limited company (Ltd), which separates your personal and business finances.
When you go through the best company registration providers, your company becomes a recognised legal entity. This unlocks key benefits:
Your personal assets are protected
You can legally trade, pay taxes, and hire staff
Your business is listed on the public Companies House register
While you can register your business directly through Companies House, the best way to register a company online is by using a company formation agent. The best company formation services make the process faster, more accurate, and fully compliant — often with helpful extras like a business address, digital documents, and tax registration support.
Looking for the best online company registration option? Keep reading to compare Tide, ANNA Money, and 1st Formations — three of the UK’s best company formation agents.
Benefits of Using a Company Formation Agent:
Choosing the best company formation agent can make launching your business faster, simpler, and fully compliant. If you’re searching for the best way to register a company online, formation services like Tide, ANNA Money, and 1st Formations take the stress out of setup and give you a professional head start.
Saves time and reduces errors
Avoid confusing forms and admin headaches — the best company formation providers handle everything quickly and accurately.
Filing fees included
No surprise charges. The Companies House fee is included in most online company registration packages.
Pre-filled documents and compliance tools
Get instant access to compliant templates like share certificates and articles of association — all handled by your company formation agent.
Optional extras available
Want to add VAT registration, a domain name, or a virtual office? The best company registration services offer customisable add-ons to suit your needs.
Better support for first-time founders
Whether you’re a freelancer or launching your first startup, the best company registration UK agents offer expert help every step of the way.
Best Company Registration Services in the UK:
Looking for the best company formation option for your startup? Below we’ve reviewed three of the best company registration agents in the UK — Tide, ANNA Money, and 1st Formations — to help you choose the best way to register a company online.
Tide – One of the Best Company Registration Tools with Business Banking
Website: Visit Tide
From: £14.99
Best for: Low-cost, fast company formation + integrated business account
Key Features:
Affordable online company registration with Companies House Open a Tide business account at the same time Register your business in minutes via the Tide app Optional upgrades: Registered office address, VAT, and more No hidden fees or subscriptions Ideal for sole traders, freelancers, and small teams
Why We Recommend Tide:
Tide offers one of the best ways to register a company online for budget-conscious founders. You can form your business and open a bank account in one smooth process, making it a top contender for the best company formation agent in the UK this year.
Get your 70% company registion discount & earn upto £200 cashback* >> Click here
Read our full Tide Business Registration review >> here for more details!
*T&C’s apply
ANNA Money – Best Company Formation + Tools for Tax & Invoicing
Website: Visit ANNA Money
From: £50.00
Best for: Admin-friendly company registration + financial tools
Key Features:
✔️ Company formation with Companies House
✔️ Comes with free business account (with account number & sort code)
✔️ Registered office address in London (optional extra)
✔️ Free business debit card
✔️ Auto-generated invoices, tax reminders, and expense tools
✔️ Optional virtual receptionist, mail handling, and VAT registration
Why We Recommend ANNA Money:
If you’re searching for the best online company registration service that includes back-office support, ANNA delivers. It combines UK company formation with smart tools to help you manage invoices, taxes, and expenses — perfect for busy founders and side hustlers.
👉 Get Started with ANNA Money for Free >>
Read our full Anna Money Company Formation review >> here for more details!
1st Formations – Best Premium Company Formation Agent for UK Startups
Website: Visit 1st Formations
From: £52.99
Best for: Founders who want a compliant, professional company formation service with optional premium support
Key Features:
✔️ Same-day UK company registration with Companies House
✔️ Printed company documents available with higher-tier packages
✔️ Free .co.uk domain for 1 year
✔️ Business bank account referrals
✔️ VAT, PAYE, and trademark registration options
✔️ Ideal for founders who want long-term support
Why We Recommend 1st Formations:
With over 1 million successful incorporations, 1st Formations is one of the most trusted company formation agents in the UK. Their updated packages reflect the latest Companies House fees and are designed for founders who value accuracy, support, and professional credibility.
Premium features — including printed documents, address services, VAT & PAYE registration, and company secretarial support — are available via higher-tier packages, making this a strong choice for startups planning to scale.
Register your company with 1st Formations >> HERE
Read our full Virtually There product review >> here for more details!
Why Register a Company?
Separate legal identity – Your business can own assets, open a bank account, and enter into contracts
Limited liability – Protects your personal assets if things go wrong
Professional image – Helps you appear more credible to clients, banks, and investors
Access to funding – Most lenders and investors prefer working with limited companies
Easier to scale – You can add shareholders, appoint directors, and grow your team
How Does Company Registration Work?
Company registration — also known as company formation or incorporation — is the legal process that gives your business its own identity. If you’re launching a startup, registering your company is one of the first (and most important) steps.
When you register a company in the UK, you’re creating a separate legal entity that is distinct from you as an individual. This process is overseen by Companies House, the UK’s official registrar. It’s essential for anyone looking to trade as a limited company.
Here’s how the process works — and why choosing the best way to register a company online can make all the difference:
🔄 Step-by-Step Breakdown
🧾 Your company details are submitted to Companies House
This includes your company name, registered office address, director(s), shareholder(s), and share capital information. Most of the best online company registration providers make this simple with easy-to-use forms.
🔍 Identity and AML checks are performed
To prevent fraud and comply with anti-money laundering regulations, the best company formation agents will verify your ID and address during setup.
✅ Your application is reviewed and approved
If everything is correct, approval usually takes less than 24 hours on working days — a key reason to use one of the best company registration services to avoid delays.
📩 Your company is added to the public register
Once approved, your business will appear on the Companies House register. You’ll receive a certificate of incorporation and can legally start trading.
💡 Optional services are often bundled in
The best company formation services also offer VAT registration, PAYE setup, registered office addresses, and even business banking options — everything you need to start strong.
📌 Using the best company formation agent simplifies every step. It’s the smartest route for startups, sole traders transitioning to Ltd, and anyone who wants to register a company online quickly and compliantly.
How to Register a Company in the UK:
Looking for the best way to register a company online? Whether you’re launching a startup or turning your freelance work into a formal business, the company formation process in the UK is now faster, simpler, and more affordable than ever.
You can register your business directly with Companies House or choose the smarter route by using one of the best company formation agents — like Tide, ANNA Money, or 1st Formations. These providers offer some of the best online company registration services available, making setup seamless and fully compliant.
Here’s how to complete your UK company registration in just a few easy steps:
1. Choose a Company Name
Pick a unique name that isn’t already registered at Companies House. The best company registration platforms often include a free name check tool.
2. Decide on Your Company Structure
Most founders go with a Private Limited Company (Ltd) — the most popular option in the UK. Some company formation services also support LLPs and PLCs if needed.
3. Appoint Directors and Shareholders
You’ll need at least one director and one shareholder (they can be the same person). The best company formation agents will guide you through this step with simple forms.
4. Provide a Registered Office Address
This must be a physical UK address and is listed publicly at Companies House. The best online company registration services offer virtual office addresses if you want to protect your privacy.
5. Prepare Your Company Documents
Formation documents include your memorandum and articles of association. These are usually auto-generated when you register with the best company formation providers.
6. Submit Your Application Online
Either your agent or Companies House will process the application. With the best company registration services, most companies are approved within 24 hours.
7. Receive Your Incorporation Documents
Once your company is registered, you’ll get your certificate of incorporation, share certificates, and official company number — ready to start trading.
📌 Pro tip: Use Tide or ANNA Money for the best online company registration experience — they let you form a company and open a business bank account at the same time.
Do I Need to Register a Company in the UK?
If you’re asking, “Do I need to register a company as a sole trader or freelancer?” — the answer depends on how you plan to operate. While you can work as a sole trader without registering with Companies House (just notify HMRC and file a Self Assessment), there are major advantages to choosing a formal company formation route.
In many cases, using the best company registration service is the smartest decision for long-term growth and legal protection.
Here’s when choosing the best way to register a company online makes sense:
You want to limit your personal liability:
A registered limited company is legally separate from you as an individual. That means your home, savings, and personal assets are protected if anything goes wrong. This is one of the biggest reasons founders turn to the best company formation agents.
You want to appear more professional:
Clients, banks, and investors are more likely to trust and work with a limited company. Choosing the best company formation setup can enhance your business image from day one.
You plan to grow or hire:
A company structure makes it easier to scale, take on employees, or apply for funding. Most founders choose a Private Limited Company (Ltd) through a company formation agent when planning for growth.
You want to separate personal and business finances:
Forming a company lets you open a dedicated business account. Many of the best online company registration services also include fast banking integrations — so your finances stay clean and compliant.
📌 Even if you’re the only one in your business, using the best company registration UK option can offer serious benefits — including better legal protection, tax efficiency, and a more credible brand.
Pros and Cons of Company Formation Services:
Thinking about registering a company in the UK? Choosing the best company formation agent can make the entire process faster, easier, and fully compliant with Companies House. Whether you’re a first-time founder or a growing business, it’s important to understand the pros and cons before choosing the best way to register a company online.
Pros of Using the Best Company Registration Services:
✔️ Easy, fast setup
The best company formation platforms guide you through every step — most companies are formed within 24 hours.
✔️ Expert help and compliance
Using the best company registration agent ensures your documents are correct and legally sound, reducing costly errors.
✔️ Extra tools included
Many of the best online company registration providers offer added value such as a registered office address, VAT registration, PAYE, and even integrated business banking.
✔️ Perfect for scaling businesses
The best company formation services help you plan for long-term growth, making it easier to hire, raise investment, and build credibility.
Cons of an Online Business Bank Account:
❌ Small upfront cost for paid services
While ANNA and Tide offer affordable packages, some premium options like 1st Formations come with a higher price for added features.
❌ Public visibility of business information
When you register a company, your registered office address and directors’ details appear on the public Companies House register.
Comparison of the Best Company registration providers:
Looking for the best company registration UK options?
Tide, ANNA Money, and 1st Formations are three of the best company formation agents — offering flexible solutions for startups, freelancers, and small businesses. If you want the best way to register a company online, these providers are a great place to start.
 |
 |
 | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cost | £14.99 | £50.00 | £52.99 |
| Registered Office Address | ✔️ Available | ✔️ Available | ✔️ Available |
| Mail Forwarding | ✔️ Available | ✔️ Available | ✔️ Available |
| Mail Scanning | ✔️ Available | ✔️ Available | ✔️ Available |
| Virtual Receptionist | ❌ Not Included | ❌ Not Included | ❌ Not Included |
| Meeting Room Access | ❌ Not Available | ❌ Not Available | ❌ Not Available |
| Free Business Account | ✔️ Yes | ✔️ Yes | ❌ No |
| Locations | Shoreditch, London | UK-wide | UK-wide |
| Exclusive Offer | Discounted company formation + £200 cashback* | Get £25 back when you top up your ANNA account | Discounted company formation |
| Get Deal | Register today | Register today |
FAQs – Company Formation UK:
If you’re planning to launch a limited company in the UK, you probably have a few questions. Below are some of the most frequently asked questions about the best company registration services, how to form a company, and the best way to register a company online. Whether you’re comparing the best company formation agents or deciding between providers like Tide, ANNA Money, or 1st Formations, these answers will help guide your decision.
Q1: Can I really register a company for free?
Answer: Yes — both Tide and ANNA Money offer free company registration as part of their business account onboarding.
Q2: Do I need a registered office address?
Answer: Yes. ANNA includes one for free. Tide offers it as an add-on. 1st Formations provides it from £39/year.
Q3: How long does it take to register?
Answer: Usually less than 24 hours — often same-day if submitted early.
Q4: Can I register as a non-UK resident?
Answer: Yes, with 1st Formations. Tide and ANNA may require UK residency.
Q5: Will I get all the legal documents?
Answer: Yes — all providers include digital versions of your certificate of incorporation and share documents.
Final Thoughts – Who are the Best Company Registration Providers:
Finding the best company registration service is key to starting your business right. The best way to register a company online is through a trusted, efficient, and compliant platform that meets your specific needs.
Whether you’re looking for the best company formation agent to handle everything for you, or the best online company registration for a quick and affordable setup, there are excellent options to match your goals.
Choosing the right service ensures your business is legally formed, professionally presented, and ready to grow — making it easier to scale with confidence.
Disclaimer: The content on this website is intended for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal, financial, or professional advice. While we strive to ensure that the information is accurate and up-to-date at the time of publication, please be aware that regulations and circumstances may change. We recommend consulting with a qualified professional for personalised guidance specific to your situation. Additionally, some links on this website may be affiliate links, meaning we may earn a commission if you make a purchase through those links. Please ensure you read and understand all terms and conditions before making any decisions.
* Tide offer: Use the code STARTUP200 when you register your business and open your Tide account. Spend £100 on your Tide card within 30 days to unlock your £75 cashback reward. In addition, if you deposit at least £5,000 into your Tide Instant Saver Account within 7 days of opening (and keep it there for one month), you’ll qualify for the additional £125 Tide Instant Saver offer.
** Anna Money Pricing: Indicated prices and plans are for reference / dated 15/11/2025. For current pricing please check the page where you sign up.
