Free Resources

Guides & Resources

Free guides to UK company formation, taxes, compliance, and starting a business. Written by the Sterling Formations team.

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Understand company formation in the UK

Read the central overview for requirements, Companies House steps, costs, timing, documents, and post-incorporation responsibilities.

Company formation overview

Formation

UK Company Formation Guide

The complete guide to forming a UK limited company — structure choice, registration, post-incorporation, and compliance.

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Tax

Corporation Tax Guide

Rates, registration, deadlines, and how to manage your Corporation Tax as a limited company director.

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Tax

UK VAT Guide

When to register, VAT rates, how to file returns, and the Flat Rate Scheme explained.

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Finance

Business Banking Guide

How to choose a UK business bank account, top options for limited companies, and integrated formation banking.

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Formation

How to Set Up a Limited Company

A step-by-step walkthrough of the company formation process — from choosing your structure to receiving your certificate.

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Formation

Company Formation Cost UK

A complete breakdown of every cost involved in forming and running a UK limited company.

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Compliance

What is a Registered Office?

Legal definition, requirements, options, and privacy implications of your registered office address.

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Formation

How to Choose a Company Name

Companies House naming rules, similarity checks, trademark considerations, and practical tips for choosing a name.

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Formation

Companies House Registration Explained

Who registers your company, the process, what information is required, and your ongoing Companies House obligations.

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Compliance

What is a Confirmation Statement?

Annual filing obligation explained: what it contains, when to file, cost, and penalties for late submission.

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Business

How to Start a Business in the UK

From validating your idea to opening for customers — the complete 2026 guide to starting a UK business.

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Formation

Limited Company vs Sole Trader

The key differences, a tax comparison worked example, and guidance on which structure to choose.

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Ready to register your company?

Use our guides to prepare — then review the current filing fee, provider charges, and any partner terms before registering your UK limited company.

Read the formation overview