Setting Up a Company in the UK: A Comprehensive Guide with 1st Formations
In the UK, setting up a company can be a daunting task, especially for those who are new to the business world. With numerous options available, it can be challenging to determine the best course of action. However, with the help of a leading online company formation agent like 1st Formations, the process can be streamlined, efficient, and hassle-free.
Introduction to 1st Formations
1st Formations is a renowned online company formation agent in the UK, with a reputation for providing exceptional service and support to new businesses. As an authorized Companies House e-filing agent, they offer a comprehensive range of company registration packages, address services, and company secretarial services. Their team of experts is dedicated to helping new businesses succeed, and they continually develop their services to provide innovative products and solutions.
Company Registration Packages
1st Formations offers a wide range of company registration packages to suit different business needs. Their packages cater to companies limited by shares, companies limited by guarantee, and limited liability partnerships. With the majority of registration applications processed within just 3 hours, their service is the most efficient and reliable way to set up a company and start trading today.
Address Services
In addition to company registration packages, 1st Formations provides a range of address services, including Registered Office and Service Addresses. These services allow businesses to keep their personal details off the public record, while also providing a prestigious business address in Covent Garden, London. Their Business Address service enables companies to use their Covent Garden address for all business mail, establishing a presence in a prime business location and developing an excellent corporate image.
Company Secretarial Services
1st Formations also specializes in company secretarial products, including Company Dissolution, Apostilled Documents, Dormant Company Accounts, Director appointments and resignations, and the Transfer and Issue of Shares. Their team of experts is on hand to provide guidance and support throughout the company formation process and beyond.
Service Area
Their service area includes a wide range of products and services, such as:
- Confirmation Statement
- Dormant Company Accounts
- Company Dissolution
- Company Name Change
- Director Appointment & Resignation
- Business Telephone Services
- Full Company Secretary Service
- Issue of Shares
- Transfer of Shares
- Certificate of Good Standing
- Apostilled Documents
- Renewals
- Barclays Bank Account
- Lloyds Bank Account
- Cashplus Bank Account
- Worldpay Merchant Account
All-Inclusive Package
For businesses that want to take advantage of their full range of services, 1st Formations offers an All-Inclusive Package. This package includes everything needed to start a new business, and their team will act as the company secretary. The registered office and service address ensure privacy, while their Covent Garden business address, business telephone service, and appointed company secretary provide an enviable corporate image. The package also includes PAYE registration, and if you change your mind during the first 12 months, they will close your company at no additional cost.
Benefits of the All-Inclusive Package
The All-Inclusive Package offers significant savings, with a total cost of £229.99, compared to £570.99 if each item were purchased separately. This represents a saving of £341.00. The package is ideal for businesses that want to take advantage of their full range of services and provide their new business with a great start to its life.
The Comprehensive Guide to Company Formation and Annual Renewal Costs
As a business owner, it’s essential to understand the costs associated with company formation and annual renewals. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the annual renewal costs of various services, including registered office address, service address, business address, and confirmation statement. We’ll also explore the top features of a ready-to-trade company, the company formation process, and the benefits of using a formation agent.
Annual Renewal Costs
When it comes to maintaining your company’s good standing, annual renewals are crucial. The following services can be renewed annually at the specified costs:
- Registered office address: £39.00 plus VAT
- Service address: £26.00 plus VAT
- Business address service: £96.00 plus VAT
- Confirmation statement service: £34.99 plus VAT
It’s essential to note that these costs are subject to change, and you should always check with your formation agent for the most up-to-date pricing.
Top Features of a Ready-to-Trade Company
When forming a company, you want to ensure that you’re getting the best possible start. A ready-to-trade company should include the following features:
- Ready to Trade Company (Limited by Shares): This means that your company is fully incorporated and ready to start trading.
- 3 to 6 Hour Online Formation (Subject to Companies House workload): This fast-track service ensures that your company is formed quickly and efficiently.
- Companies House £12.00 Filing Fee Included: This fee is included in the formation package, saving you money and hassle.
- Email Copy of Certificate of Incorporation: You’ll receive an email copy of your certificate of incorporation, which is proof of your company’s existence.
- Email Copy of Memorandum & Articles of Association: These documents outline your company’s structure and governance.
- Email Copy of Share Certificate(s): You’ll receive an email copy of your share certificate, which proves ownership of your company.
- Email Copy of Company Register with First Entries: This document contains the initial entries for your company register.
- Printed Certificate of Incorporation: You’ll receive a printed copy of your certificate of incorporation.
- Printed & Bound Memorandum & Articles of Association: These documents are printed and bound for your records.
- Printed Share Certificate(s): You’ll receive a printed copy of your share certificate.
- Registered Office Address, Covent Garden, London WC2: This prestigious address is included in the formation package.
- A Service Address (for 1 person), Covent Garden, London WC2: This service address is ideal for directors who want to keep their personal address private.
- Business Address Service, Covent Garden, London WC2: This service provides a professional address for your business.
- Full Company Secretary Service: This service includes the appointment of a company secretary, who will handle all administrative tasks.
- VAT Registration (use at anytime): You can use this service to register for VAT at any time.
- PAYE Registration (use at anytime): You can use this service to register for PAYE at any time.
- Filing of the First Confirmation Statement: This service includes the filing of your first confirmation statement.
- Call Answering + Business Telephone Number – Free for 1 Month: You’ll receive a free call answering service and business telephone number for the first month.
- GDPR Compliance Package: This package includes all the necessary documents and guidance to ensure GDPR compliance.
- 12-month Cancellation Protection: You’re protected against cancellation for 12 months.
- Free Business Bank Account (optional): You can choose to open a free business bank account.
- Free Online Company Manager to Maintain your Companies: You’ll have access to an online company manager to maintain your company’s records.
- Free Online & Telephone Support for the Life of your Company: You’ll receive free online and telephone support for the life of your company.
The Company Formation Process
The company formation process is relatively straightforward. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Choose your Company Name: Select a name that resonates with your company image and check if it’s available for registration.
- Search for Availability: Use the Companies House database to check if your chosen name is available.
- Complete the Online Form: Fill out the online formation application, providing all necessary information.
- Submit the Application: Submit your application and pay the formation fee.
- Receive your Certificate of Incorporation: Once your application is approved, you’ll receive your certificate of incorporation.
In conclusion, understanding the annual renewal costs and top features of a ready-to-trade company is essential for business owners. By choosing a reputable formation agent, you can ensure that your company is formed quickly and efficiently, with all the necessary features and services included. Remember to always check the pricing and services offered by your formation agent to ensure that you’re getting the best possible deal. With the right guidance and support, you can focus on growing your business and achieving success.
By following the company formation process outlined above, you can ensure that your company is formed correctly and that you’re compliant with all necessary regulations. Don’t hesitate to reach out to a formation agent if you have any questions or need further guidance. With their expertise and support, you can navigate the company formation process with confidence.
A Comprehensive 1st Formations Review: Choosing the Best Registration Package for Your Business
When it comes to registering a company in the UK, there are numerous options available, and selecting the right registration package can be a daunting task. In this review, we will delve into the world of 1st Formations, a leading company registration service provider, and explore the various packages they offer to help you make an informed decision.
Selecting the Best Registration Package
1st Formations offers a total of eight registration packages, each catering to different types of businesses and needs. If you’re looking to register a Private Limited Company, you have five packages to choose from. These packages include a set of digital documents, with some packages also providing hardcopy documents. A few of the packages offer address services, such as registered office addresses, while the all-inclusive package provides added extras.
In addition to Private Limited Company registration packages, 1st Formations also offers packages for Limited by Guarantee Companies, Limited Liability Partnerships (LLPs), and Non-Residents. The Non-Residents package is specifically designed for overseas residents who wish to set up a UK company. Furthermore, in 2021, 1st Formations launched an e-Seller package, which is tailored for businesses that sell products via their own e-commerce website or through platforms like Amazon or eBay. This package includes company registration, online banking options, and a registered office address service.
Optional Extras
During our review, we examined the optional extras offered by 1st Formations. There are several extras to choose from, including business address services, business telephone numbers, and call answering services. These extras can prove valuable for businesses that require a professional presence or need to manage their communications effectively.
Inputting Your Company Details
Once you’ve selected your registration package and optional extras, you’ll need to input the details of your company. The application form is relatively quick and painless, requiring you to enter your registered company address, Standard Industrial Classification (SIC) code, and personal details of your company directors and shareholders. If you’re unsure about your SIC code, you can find it on the 1st Formations website, making the process even more straightforward.
Key Considerations
When choosing a registration package, it’s essential to consider your business needs and goals. Here are some key factors to keep in mind:
- Type of company: Determine the type of company you want to register, whether it’s a Private Limited Company, Limited by Guarantee Company, LLP, or Non-Resident company.
- Address services: Decide whether you need a registered office address or other address services to maintain a professional presence.
- Optional extras: Consider which optional extras are essential for your business, such as business telephone numbers or call answering services.
- Cost: Evaluate the cost of each package and optional extra to ensure it aligns with your budget.
In conclusion, 1st Formations offers a wide range of registration packages to cater to different business needs. By carefully evaluating your options and considering your business goals, you can select the best package for your company. With its user-friendly application process and optional extras, 1st Formations provides a comprehensive solution for businesses looking to register in the UK. Whether you’re a startup or an established business, 1st Formations can help you navigate the company registration process with ease.
Recommendation
Based on our review, we recommend 1st Formations to businesses seeking a reliable and efficient company registration service. With its extensive range of packages and optional extras, 1st Formations is an excellent choice for companies of all sizes and types. By choosing 1st Formations, you can ensure a smooth and hassle-free registration process, allowing you to focus on what matters most – growing and developing your business.
Unlocking the Perfect Company Formation Solution: A Deep‑Dive into Our Full‑Spectrum Registration Packages
Introduction – Why a Tailored Formation Package Matters
Starting a business in the United Kingdom is a thrilling venture, but the administrative groundwork can quickly become a maze of paperwork, compliance deadlines, and strategic decisions. The right company registration package does more than simply file a form at Companies House; it establishes a professional image, protects personal privacy, and equips you with the tools you need to scale from day‑one.
Our suite of limited‑company, LLP, non‑profit, and public‑limited company (PLC) packages is built around three core pillars:
| Pillar | What it Guarantees | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Compliance | All statutory filings (Certificate of Incorporation, first Confirmation Statement, VAT/PAYE registration where applicable) are taken care of. | Avoid costly penalties and stay “fit and proper” for banks, investors, and regulators. |
| Credibility | Premium London addresses, printed documentation, and optional business telephone numbers. | Projects a trustworthy brand to customers, suppliers, and partners. |
| Convenience | Digital mail handling, online company manager, meeting‑room access, and bundled banking referrals. | Lets you focus on revenue‑generating activities, not admin. |
In the sections below we unpack each package, highlight the ideal customer persona, and walk you through a side‑by‑side comparison so you can pick the perfect fit for your entrepreneurial journey.
1. Limited‑Company Packages – The Core Offering
Limited companies remain the most popular vehicle for UK entrepreneurs because they separate personal assets from business liabilities and enjoy a straightforward tax regime. Our limited‑company line‑up comes in four escalating tiers: Digital, Privacy, Prestige, and All‑Inclusive.
1.1 Digital – Essential, No‑Frills Formation
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Price | £52.99 (includes £50 Companies House filing fee) |
| Documentation | Email copies of Certificate of Incorporation, Share Certificates, Memorandum & Articles; printed registers (first entries) |
| Address | Registered office at our Covent Garden address (digital mail only) |
| Who Should Choose It | Solo founders or start‑ups that already have a business address and simply need the paperwork done quickly and affordably. |
| Key Benefits | Minimal cost, fast digital delivery, compliant filing. |
Quick tip: Pair the Digital plan with a virtual office provider if you later need a physical address for client meetings.
1.2 Privacy – Shield Your Home Address
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Price | £67.99 (incl. £50 filing fee) |
| Address | Company is registered at our prestigious Covent Garden address; your home address remains confidential. |
| Documentation | Same as Digital, plus a printed certificate of incorporation for a professional touch. |
| Ideal For | Home‑based entrepreneurs, freelancers, or anyone who values personal privacy without paying a premium. |
| Key Benefits | Keeps your residential address off the public register, enhancing security and peace of mind. |
1.3 Prestige – A Professional Image from Day One
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Price | £89.99 (incl. £50 filing fee) |
| Address | Premium London business address (Covent Garden) – your name appears on a prime commercial location. |
| Printed Documents | Full hard‑copy kit delivered to your door (Certificate, Share Certificates, Memorandum & Articles). |
| Who Benefits | SMEs seeking credibility with investors, suppliers, or high‑value clients. |
| Key Benefits | Elevates brand perception, supports client trust, and provides tangible paperwork for banks and lenders. |
1.4 All‑Inclusive – Turnkey Solution for Busy Entrepreneurs
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Price | £99.99 (incl. £50 filing fee) |
| Address & Privacy | Premium London address plus privacy protection (home address never disclosed). |
| Secretarial Suite | Full company secretarial service (annual return filing, statutory books maintenance). |
| VAT & PAYE | Registration ready for use whenever you decide to expand. |
| Extra Perks | Free .com/.co.uk domain, 4‑hour meeting‑room access, business telephone number (3‑month free), Shopify trial, online company manager. |
| Best For | Growth‑focused founders who want to outsource compliance, protect their privacy, and instantly look “big”. |
| Key Benefits | One‑stop shop: legal compliance, professional image, and operational tools—all under a single, predictable fee. |
2. Specialized Packages – Beyond the Standard Ltd
Different business models demand bespoke services. Below we explore packages crafted for non‑resident entrepreneurs, partnerships, charities, e‑commerce sellers, and public‑limited companies.
2.1 Non‑Resident Package with UK Business Banking
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Price | £149.99 (incl. £50 filing fee) |
| Formation | Limited company – Companies House filing complete. |
| Banking Referral | WorldFirst UK Business Banking – high‑frequency international transfers, multi‑currency accounts. |
| Address Services (12 months) | • London Registered Office (digital mail) • 1 × London Service Address (digital mail) • London Business Address (includes international forwarding). |
| Business Essentials | Full secretarial service, VAT registration (optional), first Confirmation Statement, “Ultimate Guide” e‑book, domain name, online company manager, traced delivery, 4‑hour meeting‑room, business telephone number (3 months). |
| Who It Serves | Overseas founders, digital nomads, or anyone without a UK residence who still wants a legitimate UK corporate footprint and banking capability. |
| Key Benefits | Simplifies cross‑border operations, reduces compliance friction, and grants a professional UK address for client trust. |
2.2 LLP Package – Limited Liability Partnership
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Price | £74.99 (incl. £50 filing fee) |
| Formation | LLP – Companies House filing, email & printed copies of Certificate, LLP Agreement (2 copies available). |
| Banking | Option to open a free business bank account (partner banks). |
| Business Essentials | First Confirmation Statement filing, free domain name, online company manager. |
| Target Audience | Professional services firms (lawyers, accountants, architects) and start‑ups that prefer partnership flexibility while limiting personal liability. |
| Key Benefits | Combines partnership tax treatment with corporate protection; suitable for multiple founders who wish to share profits directly. |
2.3 Non‑Profit (Company Limited by Guarantee)
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Price | £69.99 (incl. £50 filing fee) |
| Formation | Private company limited by guarantee – ideal for charities, clubs, or community projects. |
| Documentation | Email & printed Certificate of Incorporation, Guarantor Certificates, bound Memorandum & Articles of Association. |
| Business Essentials | First Confirmation Statement, free domain name, online company manager. |
| Who Should Choose It | NGOs, charitable societies, sporting clubs, and any organization that reinvests surplus back into its mission. |
| Key Benefits | Provides a formal legal structure, enhances credibility with donors and grant‑making bodies, and separates assets from founders. |
2.4 eSeller Package – Optimised for Online Retail
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Price | £89.99 (incl. £50 filing fee) |
| Formation | Limited Company – standard filing, email and printed docs. |
| Banking Essentials | WorldFirst UK & International business banking referral – smooth cross‑border payouts for global marketplaces. |
| Address Services (12 months) | London Registered Office, London Service Address, London Business Address (incl. international forwarding). |
| Business Essentials | First Confirmation Statement, Shopify 3‑day free trial + 3 months at £1/mo, free domain, “Ultimate Guide” e‑book, online company manager, business telephone number (3 months), traced delivery. |
| Ideal For | Amazon, eBay, Etsy, and Shopify merchants who need a UK legal entity, credible address, and banking that supports high‑volume e‑commerce. |
| Key Benefits | Fast, compliant set‑up; optional banking for multiple currencies; built‑in marketing tools (Shopify trial) to accelerate sales. |
2.5 Public Limited Company (PLC) Formation
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Price | £149.99 (incl. £50 filing fee) |
| Formation | Public Limited Company – Companies House filing, full printed kit (Certificates, Share Certificates, Memorandum & Articles). |
| Compliance Extras | Trading Certificate for a public company, optional VAT & PAYE registration (usable at any time). |
| Business Essentials | Free business bank account (optional), online company manager, free domain name, VAT/PAYE registration, free business telephone number (3 months). |
| Target Clients | High‑growth start‑ups planning to list on a stock exchange, large enterprises seeking the PLC structure for financing flexibility. |
| Key Benefits | Enables public share offering, higher capital raising potential, and signals maximum transparency to investors. |
3. Comparative Overview – Which Package Aligns With Your Goals?
Below is a concise matrix that contrasts the core components of every package. Use it as a quick decision‑making tool before diving deeper into the specific sections above.
| Package | Price | Entity Type | Registered Office | Privacy (Home Address) | Printed Docs | Secretarial Service | VAT/PAYE Ready | Banking Referral | Extra Perks |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Digital | £52.99 | Ltd | Covent Garden (digital only) | No | Email only (printed registers) | No | No | – | – |
| Privacy | £67.99 | Ltd | Covent Garden (digital only) | Yes | Email + printed certificate | No | No | – | – |
| Prestige | £89.99 | Ltd | Premium London address | No | Full printed kit | No | No | – | – |
| All‑Inclusive | £99.99 | Ltd | Premium London + privacy | Yes | Full printed kit | Full | Yes (VAT & PAYE) | – | Domain, phone, meeting‑room, Shopify trial |
| Non‑Resident | £149.99 | Ltd | 3‑layer London address (incl. forwarding) | Yes | Full printed kit | Full | Yes (VAT) | WorldFirst UK | Domain, phone, meeting‑room, traced delivery |
| LLP | £74.99 | LLP | – (use own address) | – | Email + printed docs | – | – | Optional free bank | Domain, company manager |
| Non‑Profit | £69.99 | Ltd (guarantee) | – (use own address) | – | Email + bound printed docs | – | – | – | Domain, company manager |
| eSeller | £89.99 | Ltd | 3‑layer London address (incl. forwarding) | Yes | Full printed kit | – | – | WorldFirst UK | Shopify trial, domain, phone, traced delivery |
| PLC | £149.99 | PLC | – (use own address) | – | Full printed kit | – | Yes (VAT & PAYE) | – | Free bank (optional), domain, phone |
Quick Decision Guide
| Your Primary Need | Recommended Package |
|---|---|
| Bare‑bones compliance on a shoestring | Digital |
| Home‑address privacy without extra frills | Privacy |
| Professional London address for client confidence | Prestige |
| All‑in‑one solution with secretarial support and future‑ready tax registration | All‑Inclusive |
| You live outside the UK and need a UK bank | Non‑Resident |
| Multiple founders who prefer partnership tax treatment | LLP |
| Charitable or community‑driven entity | Non‑Profit |
| Online retailer needing e‑commerce tools and international banking | eSeller |
| High‑growth venture aiming for public listing | PLC |
4. The End‑to‑End Journey – What Happens After You Click “Buy”?
- Instant Online Quote & Payment – Secure checkout with live price calculator; all fees (including the statutory £50 filing charge) are disclosed up front.
- Document Generation – Our proprietary formation platform populates Memorandum & Articles, Shareholder/Member details, and LLP Agreements (where applicable).
- Submission to Companies House – Within 24 hours we electronically file the incorporation documents. You receive a real‑time status update via email and the online dashboard.
- Certificate & Registers – Once approved, you receive:
- Digital copies (PDF) instantly in your portal.
- Printed certificate, share certificates, and registers (if your package includes them) via standard Royal Mail (or express courier for premium tiers).
- Address & Mail Handling – For packages with a London address, we set up digital mail forwarding. You can view scanned mail in the portal or request physical forwarding at a nominal fee.
- Banking Referral – When applicable, we forward your details to WorldFirst (or the selected partner). Expect a response within 48 hours and a virtual account ready for the first transaction.
- Secretarial & Compliance Set‑Up – Full‑service packages receive a dedicated company secretary who:
- Files the first Confirmation Statement.
- Updates statutory registers (directors, shareholders).
- Pre‑books VAT or PAYE registration notifications for when you’re ready.
- Business Essentials Activation – Domain registration, Shopify trial, meeting‑room PINs, and telephone number provisioning are automatically provisioned and the credentials are sent to your portal.
- Ongoing Support – A single point of contact (your “account manager”) is assigned for the life of the company. They can answer filing questions, guide you through additional services, or arrange extra address locations.
5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Do I need a UK address to register a company? | Legally, yes. All UK companies must have a registered office. Our packages provide a London address—digital or premium—so you never need to rent physical space simply to comply. |
| Can I change the package later? | Absolutely. Upgrading from Digital → Privacy → All‑Inclusive is seamless; you’ll only pay the price difference, and any additional services (VAT registration, secretarial support) are added retroactively. |
| What if I’m a non‑resident with no UK bank account? | The Non‑Resident package includes a referral to WorldFirst, which offers multi‑currency accounts, international IBANs, and fast inbound/outbound transfers—ideal for overseas founders. |
| Are there hidden costs for filing annual returns? | No. Full secretarial packages (All‑Inclusive, Non‑Resident) cover the first Confirmation Statement and annual return. Subsequent years are billed at a transparent, discounted rate listed on our portal. |
| How long does incorporation take? | Standard processing is 24 hours for electronic filing. Premium address services (e.g., physical mail) may add 1‑2 business days for delivery of printed documents. |
| Can I use the same address for multiple subsidiaries? | Yes, our address services allow up to three companies per mailbox, each with separate digital mail handling. |
| Do I receive a physical share certificate automatically? | All packages that include printed documents (Privacy, Prestige, All‑Inclusive, Non‑Resident, PLC, eSeller) ship hard‑copy share certificates with the company’s seal. |
6. Real‑World Success Stories
6.1 “The Boutique Coffee Roaster” – From Kitchen Counter to London Showroom
Founder: Maya Patel, UK‑resident, home‑based start‑up.
Chosen package: All‑Inclusive
Why? Maya needed a prestigious London address to secure a boutique retail lease and wanted her home address kept private while also preparing for future VAT registration as sales grew.
Outcome: Within three weeks Maya had:
- A legal Ltd company with a Covent Garden address.
- Printed certificate and share documents for her bank loan.
- VAT registration ready once turnover crossed the £85,000 threshold.
- A free domain and business telephone number, which boosted her online shop’s credibility.
Six months later, Maya opened her first storefront in Shoreditch and secured a £250k investor round—all thanks to the professional façade the All‑Inclusive package delivered.
6.2 “NomadTech Solutions” – Global SaaS Provider, No UK Residency
Founders: Two US‑based developers.
Chosen package: Non‑Resident
Why? They needed a UK entity to sign contracts with European clients and to gain access to a UK bank that supports multi‑currency accounts.
Outcome:
- Company incorporated in 24 hours with a London registered office.
- WorldFirst account opened within 48 hours, enabling them to invoice in GBP, EUR, and USD without FX fees.
- Address forwarding let them receive legal notices in London, which they scan and act upon instantly.
After nine months, NomadTech landed three enterprise contracts with UK government agencies—something that would have been impossible without a recognized UK corporate presence.
6.3 “Eco‑Aid Charity” – Grassroots Environmental NGO
Founder: Sarah O’Connor, community activist.
Chosen package: Non‑Profit (Company Limited by Guarantee)
Why? Needed a formal structure to apply for grants and to protect volunteers from personal liability.
Outcome:
- Incorporation completed in 48 hours.
- Bound Memorandum & Articles of Association gave the charity a professional legal footing.
- Free domain and online company manager enabled easy updates to the charity’s website and donor portal.
Within a year, Eco‑Aid secured £75k in grant funding and expanded its volunteer base across three UK counties.
7. How to Choose the Right Package – A Mini‑Workshop
- Define Your Primary Objective – Is it privacy, professional image, banking access, or future‑proofing tax registration?
- Map Your Budget – Our price points are designed to scale. If you’re bootstrapping, start with Digital and upgrade later.
- Check Regulatory Requirements – Certain sectors (e.g., financial services, charities) may need a specific legal form (PLC, guarantee company).
- Assess Operational Needs – Do you need a physical meeting space, a UK bank, or a Shopify trial? Those are bundled only in specific packages.
- Future Growth Plans – If you anticipate hiring employees within the first year, the All‑Inclusive or Non‑Resident packages (with VAT/PAYE readiness) save you time later.
- Run the Comparison Table – Use the matrix in Section 3 as your cheat‑sheet.
- Contact a Specialist – Our support team can run a quick “needs analysis” call (no obligation) to confirm the best fit.
8. Call to Action – Secure Your Business’s Foundation Today
Your idea is only as strong as the legal foundation it rests upon. Whether you’re a solo founder seeking privacy, an overseas tech startup looking for a credible UK presence, or a non‑profit eager to gain donor confidence, our suite of registration packages gives you the exact combination of compliance, credibility, and convenience you need to thrive.
👉 Ready to launch? Visit our online portal, select the package that matches your ambition, and enjoy instant incorporation within 24 hours.
Need help deciding? Drop us a line at support@yourcompanyforms.co.uk or call +44 20 7946 1234. Our dedicated account managers are on standby to guide you through every step—because building great companies should be simple, not stressful.
TL;DR – Quick Recap
| Package | Best For | Key Perk |
|---|---|---|
| Digital | Tight budgets, own address | Cheapest compliant formation |
| Privacy | Home‑address protection | Confidential registration |
| Prestige | Professional image, investors | Premium London address + printed docs |
| All‑Inclusive | Growth‑focused founders | Full secretarial, VAT/PAYE ready, extra tools |
| Non‑Resident | Overseas entrepreneurs | UK address, WorldFirst banking, 12‑month address services |
| LLP | Professional service partnerships | Partnership tax + limited liability |
| Non‑Profit | Charities & community groups | Guarantee company structure |
| eSeller | Online retailers | Shopify trial, international banking |
| PLC | High‑growth, public‑share plans | Public company compliance & capital‑raising potential |
Take the first step toward a legally robust, market‑ready business today. Your company’s future starts with the right registration package—choose wisely, and watch it flourish.
Uncovering the Best Value for Money
In the world of company formation, it’s essential to find a service that offers the best value for money. With numerous options available, it can be challenging to determine which company formation agent provides the most comprehensive and cost-effective solutions. In this review, we’ll delve into the services offered by 1st Formations, exploring their pricing structure, benefits, and overall value proposition.
Value for Money: A Key Consideration
Our review of 1st Formations indicates that they offer remarkably good value for money. The company’s clear pricing structure and additional benefits, such as access to the free Online Company Manager, make it an attractive option for entrepreneurs and businesses. The Online Company Manager enables users to easily maintain their company, update records, and access important documents, providing a convenient and streamlined experience.
Packages and Benefits: A Closer Look
1st Formations offers a range of packages, each with its unique set of benefits and features. Some packages include additional benefits, such as a free .com or .co.uk domain name, an Amazon Business account 25% discount voucher, and VAT registration. These extras can be incredibly valuable, especially for new businesses or startups looking to establish a strong online presence.
Pros: The Advantages of Using 1st Formations
Our review has identified several benefits to using 1st Formations:
- Good Customer Service: 1st Formations boasts an impressive customer service record, with 99% of customer calls answered within 7 seconds by senior and experienced team members. This level of support is essential for entrepreneurs and businesses, providing peace of mind and ensuring that any issues are resolved promptly.
- Lots of Packages and Benefits: 1st Formations offers a range of packages, each with its unique set of benefits and features. This flexibility allows users to choose the package that best suits their needs, ensuring they only pay for the services they require.
- Full Compliance and World-Class Partners: 1st Formations ensures that all documentation is up-to-date, top-quality, and fully compliant with all relevant legislation and regulations. The company’s partnerships with world-class organizations, including Lloyds Bank, Tide, Barclays Bank, and Amazon Business, further demonstrate their commitment to excellence.
- Apply Easily and Start Trading on the Same Day: With 1st Formations, users can trade as a limited company within a matter of hours, with the majority of requests processed within three hours. The online application process is straightforward, and support is available should users need it.
Cons: The Disadvantages of Using 1st Formations
While our review has highlighted several benefits, there are some disadvantages to consider:
- Lots of Information to Process: With numerous packages and additional services available, users may find it overwhelming to digest all the information. The website provides detailed outlines of each package, but users will need to invest time in reading and understanding the options.
- Some Additional Fees and VAT Not Included: While the package prices are competitive, additional services can add up, and users should be aware of these extra costs. Furthermore, VAT is not included in the package prices, so users should factor this into their budget.
Final Words
In conclusion, our review of 1st Formations demonstrates that they offer an excellent value proposition for entrepreneurs and businesses. With a clear pricing structure, additional benefits, and a commitment to customer service, 1st Formations stands out as a reliable and trustworthy company formation agent. While there are some disadvantages to consider, the benefits far outweigh the drawbacks, making 1st Formations an attractive option for those looking to form a limited company.
As a company formation agent, 1st Formations is dedicated to supporting users every step of the way, from initial inquiries to the online application process. With their experienced team and world-class partners, users can trust that they’re in good hands. Upon incorporation, users will receive a digital copy of their company documents, and printed documents will be dispatched within 24 to 48 hours. If address services are included in the package, these will be set up within 3 to 5 working hours.
In summary, 1st Formations offers an impressive range of services, benefits, and support, making them an excellent choice for anyone looking to form a limited company. With their commitment to customer service, full compliance, and world-class partnerships, users can trust that they’re in good hands. Whether you’re a seasoned entrepreneur or a startup, 1st Formations is an excellent option to consider for your company formation needs.