Accounting Solutions Manchester
About Us

We are a firm of ACCA Qualified Accountants based in Stretford, Manchester. We have been providing exceptional service to companies and owner-managed businesses for the last 15 years.

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Are you thinking about setting up a limited company?

Hello Manchester Entrepreneurs! Are you thinking about setting up a limited company? With recent updates and the evolving business landscape, forming a limited company might be a strategic move to consider, especially in Manchester. Let’s explore why it might be advantageous to take this step for your business.

Why Form a Limited Company?

1. Separate Legal Entity

Unlike sole traders, a limited company is a separate legal entity from its owners. This means your personal assets are protected in the event of financial trouble (Small Business UK).

2. Professional Image

Operating as a limited company can provide your business with a more professional image, which can be crucial when dealing with larger firms or securing contracts (Bytestart).

3. Tax Efficiency

For businesses making a substantial profit, forming a limited company can be more tax-efficient. Companies pay corporation tax on their profits, which is currently fixed at 25% for profits over £250,000. For smaller profits up to £50,000, a lower tax rate applies (Small Business UK). Additionally, limited companies can offer tax-free benefits to directors and employees which are not available to sole traders (Bytestart).

4. Raising Capital

Limited companies often find it easier to raise capital through selling shares or securing funding from investors, given their structured setup (Bytestart).

5. Ownership and Succession

A limited company can easily transfer ownership through the sale of shares, simplifying succession planning and changes in management (Bytestart).

Steps to Form a Limited Company

The process of setting up a limited company involves several key steps:

1. Choose a Company Name

Ensure the name is unique and not already in use or trademarked (GOV.UK).

2. Appoint Directors and Shareholders

At least one director and shareholder are required, and they can be the same person (GOV.UK).

3. Prepare Necessary Documents

You’ll need a ‘memorandum of association’ and ‘articles of association’ to define how the company will be run (GOV.UK).

4. Register with Companies House and HMRC

Once your documents are prepared, register your company with Companies House and for corporation tax with HMRC (GOV.UK) (1st Formations).

Considerations

While the benefits are significant, remember the administrative responsibilities that come with running a limited company, such as keeping detailed financial records and submitting annual accounts (Companies MadeSimple). Additionally, while your liability is limited, directors can still be held personally liable under certain circumstances, such as failing to comply with legal or financial regulations (Companies MadeSimple).

If you’re considering forming a limited company, our team of experienced accountants in Manchester can help guide you through the complexities of company formation and ensure you meet all regulatory requirements. Feel free to contact us at info@accountingsolutionsmcr.co.uk or call 0161 879 7175.

Setting up as a limited company could be a crucial decision for your business’s future. We’re here to help you make the right choice and support you in every step of your business journey.

For more information, contact us at Accounting Solutions Manchester, or get in touch on 0161 879 7175. We are here to help your business succeed!