Can you form a company for free in the UK?
Not through the standard direct online route. Companies House currently charges £100to incorporate a company online (effective 1 February 2026). Always check the official fee schedule before applying because statutory fees can change.
Tide currently advertises company registration for £14.99 instead of the standard Companies House fee. That is a discounted advertised price, not proof that every route is free or that additional costs do not apply. Review Tide’s live price and terms before starting.
Check what “free” actually means
A provider may waive its own service fee while a statutory filing fee, account requirement, or optional service still costs money. Before applying, check the amount due at checkout, who pays Companies House, and every condition attached to an advertised offer.
Compare UK registration routes
The right route depends on whether you want to file directly, receive guided help, or consider a partner offer. Compare the whole first-year cost rather than relying on a “free” headline.
| Route | Upfront position | What to check |
|---|---|---|
| Direct Companies House | £100 | Check the official fee schedule and the application service |
| Tide company registration | £14.99 advertised | Check the live price, what is included, and account conditions |
| Other formation provider | Varies by provider | Compare filing, service, registered-office, and renewal costs |
How to register a company in the UK
1. Check the amount due today
The direct online Companies House fee is currently £100. Compare it with any provider’s displayed price and conditions.
2. Prepare the company details
Choose an available name, provide director and shareholder details, select a SIC code, and prepare a suitable UK registered office address.
3. Compare the registration routes
Apply directly through Companies House or compare a provider’s formation service. Check what is included, any account conditions, and optional renewals before paying.
4. Complete the application
Submit accurate information and complete any identity, account, or verification steps requested by the provider or Companies House.
Costs after incorporation
The incorporation price is only one part of running a limited company. Depending on your circumstances, budget for:
Check the original fee and offer terms
- Companies House fee schedule (effective 1 February 2026)
- Tide company registration price and current terms
The Tide link uses Sterling Formations’ partner route. Confirm current terms directly with Tide before applying.
More UK company formation guidance
Free company registration FAQs
Is company registration free in the UK?
No, not through the standard direct online route. Companies House currently charges £100 for online incorporation, effective 1 February 2026. A provider may advertise a lower or conditional offer, so check what you must pay and the live terms before applying.
How much does Tide company registration cost?
Tide currently advertises company registration for £14.99 instead of the standard £100 online Companies House fee. Check Tide’s live application journey for the price, eligibility, what is included, and any separate account requirements before applying.
Does “free company formation” mean no money upfront?
Not necessarily. “Free” can refer to a provider waiving its own service fee while a statutory fee or other costs still apply. Confirm the amount due before submitting, who pays Companies House, and whether account or add-on conditions apply.
Can I register directly with Companies House?
Yes. The official online incorporation fee is currently £100. Check the Companies House fee page before applying because statutory fees can change.
What do I need to register a company?
You generally need a company name, a registered office address in the UK, at least one director aged 16 or over, shareholder details, a share structure, and a SIC code describing the business activity. Identity and verification requirements can apply.
What costs continue after registration?
A limited company still has ongoing obligations after incorporation, including annual accounts, Corporation Tax administration, the Confirmation Statement, and any registered-office, payroll, accounting, or professional services you choose.