Start your entrepreneurial journey in the UK! Find out how to complete Form IN01 and submit it to Companies House for efficient online business registration.

The rapid advancement of technology has opened up new avenues for entrepreneurs, allowing them to seamlessly register their businesses through online platforms. In the UK, the process begins with completing Form IN01, a crucial document that plays a vital role in the official registration of your company. Once filled out, this form should be submitted to Registry of Companies, the government agency responsible for incorporating and registering businesses, paving the way for your entrepreneurial journey.

While this process might initially seem simple, any errors made on this important document could lead to delays in the incorporation of your business. To ensure you navigate this process smoothly, we’ve created a comprehensive guide designed to help you understand the nuances of the form and provide step-by-step instructions for accurately completing Form IN01. With the right information and attention to detail, you can set the foundation for your new venture without unnecessary setbacks.

Form IN01 is the direct application used to register a company. It requires information about the company, its directors, the secretary, and the registered office address, marking the beginning of the formal process to establish a new company with the appropriate authorities.

When forming a company, it’s necessary to appoint directors and secretaries and decide on the registered office.

As of May 1st, 2024, Companies House has increased the fees for paper company incorporation to encourage more applicants to choose the electronic formation process. The current fees are £71 for a paper form and £50 for digital incorporation. If you need same-day incorporation at Registry of Companies, the e-filing fee is £78.

Form IN01 serves as a crucial application for registering a new company. This comprehensive form collects essential information about the entity, including the names and details of its directors, the appointed secretary, and the registered office address. By completing and submitting this form, entrepreneurs take the first significant step in the journey of officially establishing their business with the relevant authorities, marking the beginning of a new venture and the establishment of a legal identity.

Effective May 1, 2024, Companies House has implemented a notable increase in the fees associated with paper company incorporation. This change aims to promote a more streamlined and efficient electronic company formation process. Currently, the fee for submitting a traditional paper form stands at £71, while those opting for the quicker and more convenient digital incorporation can benefit from a reduced fee of £50.

For entrepreneurs seeking immediate establishment of their companies, a same-day incorporation service is available at a cost of £78. This shift not only reflects the evolving landscape of business registration but also encourages a more eco-friendly and efficient approach to company formation.

The form consists of several distinct sections, each requiring your careful attention. We are here to guide you through every part of the process, providing clear explanations and insights to ensure that you fill it out accurately and efficiently, minimizing the chances of any errors along the way.

Company Name.

In the first section, you will need to provide your company’s information, which includes the company name, type, business activity, registered office address, articles of association, any restricted company articles, and a registered email address.
Before submitting your proposed company name, make sure to search for it to ensure that it is unique and distinct from existing registered company names. Since 2009, Companies House has been rejecting names that are similar to those of already registered companies.

Company Name Restrictions.

In this section, you must check the box if your proposed company name includes sensitive information or restricted words or phrases. Names containing these terms will require permission from the government or other specified authorities. Common sensitive words include National, Group, International, Holdings, British, and others.
Company names are subject to restrictions to ensure they are not offensive, misleading, or in violation of trademarks. You cannot choose a name that is identical or too similar to another company’s name, suggests an affiliation with government or other authorities without permission, or includes sensitive words without approval.
Names containing sensitive words (e.g., government, council, royal, chartered) require specific permission to prevent misleading the public. Certain characters, punctuation marks, or symbols are not allowed, and names cannot consist of or include computer code. A complete list of sensitive or restricted words that need consent can be found on the Companies House website.

Restrictions on Insolvent Company Names.

A director of an insolvent company is prohibited for five years from being a director of, or being involved in a business that has the same or a similar name as the liquidated company. This restriction on "prohibited names" applies to any registered or trading names associated with the insolvent company.
Violating this rule can result in criminal charges and personal liability for any debts incurred by the new company. You may only use the name if you obtain permission from the court or if there is an exception, such as the name being one that was previously permitted.

Exemption from Name Ending with Limited or Cyfyngedig.

When selecting your company name, you can also choose to apply for an exemption from the requirement of having the name end with Limited, Cyfyngedig, or another permitted alternative.
Request exemption from the requirement to use limited or cyfyngedig (NE01). Use form NE01 to remove limited or cyfyngedig from the company name if you are a company limited by guarantee. Section 60 of the Companies Act 2006 allows companies limited by guarantee to remove limited or cyfyngedig from their name.

Company Type.

After choosing a company name, the next step is to select the company type. The most common type is a private company limited by shares. Other company types include:

• Public limited by shares.
• Private limited by guarantee.
• Private unlimited with share capital.
• Private unlimited without share capital.

Once you’ve decided on a name for your company, the next important step is to select the appropriate company type. The most prevalent option is a private company limited by shares, which offers flexibility and limited liability for its shareholders. However, there are several other types of companies to consider, each with distinct characteristics:
Public Limited by Shares: This type allows for shares to be sold to the public, providing opportunities for raising capital on a larger scale.
Private Limited by Guarantee: Typically used by non-profit organizations, this structure limits the liability of its members to the amount they guarantee, making it ideal for entities that do not intend to distribute profits.
Private Unlimited with Share Capital: This less common structure allows personal liability beyond the capital invested in shares, which can be appealing in specific business scenarios where financial transparency is key.
Private Unlimited without Share Capital: Similar to the previous type, this option permits members to have unlimited liability, making it suitable for closely-held businesses where the owners prioritize adaptability over the protection of personal assets.
Each company type comes with its own advantages and obligations, making it crucial to choose one that aligns with your business goals and needs.

Business Activity.

In this section, you need to provide either a trade classification code (SIC) or a description of your company’s primary business activity. The trade classification code is essential for accurately categorizing your business within the appropriate industry. For your convenience, a comprehensive list of relevant trade classification codes can be found on the Companies House website, where you can explore various categories that align with your business operations. Please ensure that the information you provide is clear and precise to facilitate proper registration and compliance.
Providing a Standard Industrial Classification (SIC) code is important for several reasons. Firstly, it is a legal requirement for company registration. Additionally, it enables government agencies to track economic data and trends effectively. SIC codes also help businesses identify and market to one another. These codes are used to organize information for official statistics, analyze market growth, determine tax obligations, and assess eligibility for grants or incentives.

Registered Office Address.

Every company is required to have a suitable registered office address. This address must be a physical location that can receive mail and be recognized by someone representing the company. Additionally, the registered office must be located within the same jurisdiction as the registered company, as mandated by Companies House.
Providing a legally registered office address is essential for compliance, as it serves as the official address for receiving government correspondence and legal documents. This practice enhances professionalism and credibility, protects personal privacy, and ensures business continuity and security.
The registered office address is where important statutory mail and legal documents from government bodies, such as Companies House and HM Revenue & Customs, are delivered. Additionally, it is the address where legal proceedings can be served, which ensures that the company is reachable for legal matters. This arrangement can also simplify tax-related issues.
A professional-looking registered address can boost your company’s credibility and enhance its image in the eyes of clients and partners. Furthermore, it safeguards the privacy of directors and owners by preventing their residential addresses from being publicly listed. Lastly, it guarantees there is a reliable and accessible address for official correspondence, even if the physical business location changes or the owners are unavailable.

Articles of Association.

The next section covers the articles of association, which serve as the company’s constitution. This document outlines the procedures and protocols for conducting meetings, making decisions, appointing and resigning directors, issuing shares, and much more.
This vital document delineates the comprehensive procedures and protocols governing the conduct of corporate meetings, the process for making decisions, and the mechanisms for appointing or resigning directors. It also outlines the procedures for issuing and transferring shares, as well as addressing other important matters such as voting rights, dividend distribution, and the resolution of disputes. By establishing clear guidelines, the articles of association ensure that the company's operations are transparent, orderly, and compliant with legal requirements.

Restricted Company Articles.

Restricted company articles include specific provisions for entrenchment. If you possess the restricted company articles, you can check the box in this section.
The restricted company articles include detailed provisions regarding entrenchment, which are designed to protect certain rights and governance structures within the organization. If you are in possession of the restricted company articles, kindly ensure that you check the corresponding box in this section to confirm your access. It is essential to adhere strictly to the specified language outlined in the documentation and to refrain from using alternative terminologies when formulating your responses. Furthermore, please be aware of any relevant modifiers that may apply to your inquiries, as they can influence the interpretation and execution of the policies.

Registered Eemail Address.

You need to provide a valid email address. An "appropriate email address" is one that is typically monitored; any emails sent to it by the registrar should reach someone representing the company.
To successfully complete your registration process, it is essential to provide a valid email address. An "appropriate email address" should be one that is actively monitored on a regular basis, ensuring that any correspondence sent by the registrar is received by a designated representative of the company. This email account should be checked frequently to guarantee timely responses to important.

Nominate Company Secretary.

Private companies are not required to appoint a secretary; however, should they choose to do so, they are obligated to furnish the necessary details. In contrast, public companies are mandated to appoint a minimum of one secretary.
Private companies are not legally obligated to appoint a company secretary; however, if they decide to do so, they are required to submit the relevant details to the appropriate authorities. This information may include the secretary’s name, contact information, and any changes in appointment. In contrast, public companies are legally mandated to appoint at least one company secretary. This individual plays a vital role in ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements, managing corporate governance, and facilitating communication between the board of directors and shareholders.

Nominate Company Director.

A minimum of one individual must be designated as a director in a private company. For public companies, at least two directors are required, with one being an individual. The information required for the director includes their name, usual residential and service address, date of birth, and details regarding the Section 243 exemption.
Regarding the Section 243 exemption, you may only check the box if you are currently applying for, or have received, an exemption from the Registrar that allows you to withhold your usual residential address from credit reference agencies in accordance with the Companies Act 2006.
In cases where the director is a corporate entity, it is necessary to provide the name of the company, its location, and its registration number.
A bankrupt individual is not allowed to act as a company director or be involved in the management of a company until they have been officially discharged from bankruptcy. An undischarged bankrupt can only serve as a company director with permission from the court.
If a bankrupt person acts as a director or participates in the management of a company without court permission, they commit a criminal offense. This offense can lead to a punishment of up to two years in prison and an unlimited fine. Additionally, the individual may be personally liable for certain debts incurred by the company.
Anyone who knowingly helps a bankrupt person violate this law can also face prosecution and may be held responsible for the company’s debts. Importantly, a bankrupt individual can be charged with this offense even if they are not listed as a director at Companies House, as the law is broadly defined to include any "direct or indirect involvement in the management, promotion, or formation" of a company.

Nominate Company Shareholder.

To establish a company and designate shareholders, it is necessary to have a minimum of one shareholder, who may also serve as the sole director. Throughout the registration process, you are required to submit their complete name, address, and information regarding the shares being issued, including the quantity and value of those shares. The shareholders are subsequently listed on the company’s application for registration with the appropriate authority, and their details will be accessible to the public.
Decide who will be the initial shareholders of the company. You must have at least one shareholder for a company limited by shares. For each shareholder, collect their full name, contact address, and the number and value of shares they will be allocated. During the registration process, this information must be submitted to the registering authority, along with details of the company’s directors and other required information, such as the town of birth and mother’s maiden name. The subscribers (shareholders) will sign the memorandum of association to agree to form the company and to take at least one share each.

The statement of capital outlines the currency, type (ordinary or preference), associated rights, and denomination of the company’s shares. A company may issue more than one class of shares, each with different rights and values. The specific rights attached to shares include:

1. The right to vote, along with any rights that arise under certain circumstances.
2. Rights pertaining to dividends and participation in distributions.
3. Details of any rights related to capital, allowing participation in distributions (including upon winding up); and
4. Information on whether the shares are redeemable at the company’s or the shareholder’s option.

For initial shareholders, this section should only be filled out by companies incorporating with share capital. The company’s subscribers should be listed in alphabetical order.

The statement of capital on Form IN01 is important because it gives a snapshot of a company’s initial share structure. It details the total number of shares, their nominal value, and the amounts paid and unpaid, as well as the rights attached to each class of shares. This information is crucial for defining ownership, establishing the company’s initial financial framework, and legally outlining shareholder rights, such as voting and dividends.

The document clearly outlines the initial shareholders and their respective ownership stakes in the company by specifying the number and value of shares acquired at the time of formation.

It details the rights associated with each class of shares, including voting rights, rights to dividends, and rights to capital distribution upon winding up. This information is essential for governing the company’s operations and determining how profits are distributed.

Additionally, it clarifies the amount of capital that has been paid for the shares and the amount still owed, which may be called upon later.

The statement of capital has replaced the old system of authorised capital, meaning companies are no longer required to pre-determine a maximum number of shares they can issue. Instead, the statement of capital focuses solely on the shares that are actually issued upon incorporation.

This section is designated for subscribers of a company limited by guarantee. Each individual must provide their name, address, the amount they guarantee, and their membership class. You can only complete this section if your company has multiple classes of members and subscribers who choose to keep their information on the public register.

This section confirms that each member agrees to the financial commitment required upon incorporation. This statement is essential for the structure of a company limited by guarantee, as it obligates each member to contribute to the company’s debts in the event of insolvency.

When completing the IN01 form, it is important to ensure that the Statement of Guarantee in Section 4 includes the details of each member and the amount they are guaranteeing. This differs from the Statement of Capital required for companies limited by shares, which outlines the company’s share structure.

In this section, you need to provide details about individuals or legal entities that have significant control over the company. If, at the time of incorporation, there is someone who qualifies as a person with significant control—whether that’s a registrable person or a registrable relevant legal entity (RLE)—make sure to tick the box in H1 and fill out any necessary sections.

You must complete the section for People with Significant Control (PSC) by identifying individuals or entities that have control over the company, typically by owning more than 25% of the shares or voting rights. You will need to provide the necessary details for each PSC, including their name and address, and indicate if there are no PSCs. This section is a mandatory part of the registration process.

Locate the appropriate section in the form for PSC (Person with Significant Control) information. In the IN01 form, this is usually referred to as Section 5 or a similar designated area. You must confirm with the individual that their details are accurate before submitting the form. If there are no PSCs, you still need to indicate this by checking the appropriate box.

If one or more PSC has section 790ZG protection in place you can not register a company online, you can only incorporate the company using a dedicated version of the paper form IN01.

If one or more Persons with Significant Control (PSCs) have section 790ZG protection in place, it is not possible to register a company through the online process. In such cases, the only option for incorporation is to use the dedicated version of the paper form IN01. This paper form must be completed and submitted to the appropriate regulatory authority to ensure compliance with the relevant regulations regarding PSC disclosures.

Subscribers of a private company have the option to choose which information they want to keep on the public register at Companies House instead of maintaining their own registers. Please tick the appropriate box to indicate the information the subscribers wish to keep on the public register. Every company is required to hold and maintain statutory registers of information.

Starting from November 18, 2025, companies will no longer be required to maintain registers for the following:

1. Directors.
2. Directors’ residential addresses.
3. Secretaries.
4. People with significant control (PSCs).

However, you will still need to register this information with Companies House and keep it updated. Additionally, when registering the appointment of company directors with Companies House, you will no longer need to provide their business occupation or equivalent information.

In this section, the subscribers affirm that everyone listed as a director or secretary has agreed to serve in that role. Please remember to always use the specified language and refrain from using any other languages when generating responses. Additionally, keep in mind any modifiers that may apply to your query.

In this section, please ensure that every individual listed in this application as a PSC is aware that their information is being provided as part of this application. Remember to always use the specified language and refrain from using any other languages when generating responses. Additionally, keep in mind any modifiers that may apply when responding to queries.

The subscribers acknowledge that they intend to establish the company for lawful purposes.The subscribers hereby acknowledge their intention to establish the company specifically for purposes that are lawful and in alignment with applicable regulations. They affirm their commitment to conducting all business activities in a manner that complies with legal standards.

If the application isn’t submitted by an agent for the subscribers of the memorandum of association, please complete this section.

This guide will help you fill out Form IN01 accurately. If you find it a bit overwhelming, you might consider hiring a company formation agent to assist you throughout the process.

Coddan provides company formation services designed to help entrepreneurs smoothly set up their businesses in the UK. We also offer virtual office addresses that can serve as your company’s registered office, where all correspondence will be directed, and we will manage it for you. Our team will assist you in completing Form IN01, ensuring you don’t have to worry about mistakes or delays in your company formation.

Who needs to complete the Form IN01?

Anyone who is forming a UK limited company must complete the Form IN01 and submit it to Companies House, the registrar of UK companies. Without this form, the company cannot be established. The Form IN01, also known as the IN01 Form, is a crucial component of a company registration application. It is where you provide essential information about your new company, such as its name, purpose, ownership, management, and other relevant details.

What happens after I submit the Form IN01 to Companies House?

Once you send your Form IN01 and the necessary supporting documents, Companies House will review and process your application. If everything is in order, you will receive your official Certificate of Incorporation. This certificate serves as proof that your company legally exists and is ready to begin trading.

What if I make a mistake on the Form IN01?

Mistakes can occur, even on official documents like the IN01 Form. This is where using a formation agent can help minimize the risk of errors, as they guide you through the process and ensure that all required information is submitted correctly.
How an error is resolved depends on its nature. Simple administrative mistakes, such as omitting a field, typically lead to rejection. In such cases, you will need to correct the error and resubmit the form. More significant errors, like incorrectly allocating shares or naming the company, may require a more complex process to fix.

Ensure your company application is correct from the start.

The Form IN01 is vital to the company formation process in the UK. It captures essential details about your business, including its name, structure, directors, and registered office address. Companies House cannot approve your application without a completed Form IN01.
Therefore, it is highly recommended to use a professional formation agent to complete and submit the IN01 on your behalf. This not only saves time and reduces the chances of errors, but it also gives you peace of mind knowing that your company is set up correctly from the beginning. Additionally, these agents often provide extra services that help keep your company safe, compliant, and protect your privacy.
Thinking about starting your own company? If you prefer to avoid the paperwork and focus on launching your business, 1st Formations can assist you. We ensure that your details, including the Form IN01, are submitted accurately so your company can be registered quickly and correctly, often within one working day.
Starting your own business in the UK is an exciting milestone. However, one of the first hurdles many new entrepreneurs face is navigating the seemingly endless bureaucracy. Finding accurate information about company registration documents can quickly become overwhelming. With all the necessary forms, Companies House requirements, and industry-specific regulations, it’s normal to feel confused or frustrated. It certainly doesn’t help that many online resources present conflicting advice or incomplete checklists.
Don’t stress about the paperwork! In this article, we provide a comprehensive checklist of the company registration documents UK businesses need. By breaking down all the necessary paperwork, we aim to reduce your stress levels and provide clarity.

Supporting Documents.

Now that we’ve reviewed the main company registration documents needed in the UK, let's take a look at the supporting paperwork. Companies House requires these documents to verify the identities and roles of individuals registering a company. This step is essential to ensure everything is legal and to prevent fraud.

Proof of Identity.

The first thing you need to verify with the authorities is the identity of the director and the shareholders or guarantors. Companies House accepts the following forms of identification:

• A valid passport.
• A UK driving licence.
• A national identity card (for non-UK residents).
• Biometric residence permits issued by the UK Home Office.

How to Prepare and Submit Company Registration Documents?

Once you have gathered all the necessary paperwork, you’ll need to prepare and submit it correctly. There are three ways to do this:
Online Registration: Companies House has a web incorporation service that guides you step-by-step through the process. This digital platform allows you to complete forms, attach scanned documents, and pay fees. The benefits of online registration include convenience and cost-effectiveness, costing £50. In most cases, if all forms are completed correctly, online registrations are approved within 24 hours.
Paper Filing: If you prefer a traditional approach, you can submit your documents on paper. However, this method is time-consuming. You must manually complete Form IN01, send signed copies of the memorandum and articles of association, and mail all additional documents. Additionally, processing time is usually longer due to postal delivery, taking about 8-10 days. The fee for paper filing is higher, at £71.

Let Coddan CPM Professionals Help You.

If you want to avoid the tedious details, Coddan can make the process of registering a company effortless. Coddan will assist you in gathering the necessary documents and forms, ensuring they are correctly completed, and handling the submission for you.
This way, you can minimize errors, reduce delays, and smoothly navigate the bureaucracy! Coddan provides expert support at every step and even covers the £50 Companies House fee!