Although you can set up a limited company by buying a company online or 'off the shelf', it is usually advisable to seek our professional advice. There are so many options and pitfalls we strongly recommend working with us on your new business venture. Is it advisable to use a limited company? What are the tax benefits and consequences?

If time is an important factor, you can consider buying a ready-made company. The procedure will depend on the company formation agents', including online agents, requirements.

In many small companies, the owners are also the directors, and this gives importance to how income is extracted from the company.

HMRC charge interest on underpayments of tax, and pays interest (repayment supplement) on overpayments.

There are over 100 company-related forms prescribed. We list below these and include a link to all the forms which can be downloaded direct from Companies House.

It is essential that you keep your company's statutory records up-to-date. Do not underestimate the importance of these records - they are definitive proof of the company's legal existence and its members.