5 Common Mistakes When Forming a UK LTD — And How to Avoid Them
<![CDATA[
Don’t Let These Mistakes Cost You Time and Money
Forming a UK Limited Company is straightforward — but only if you know the pitfalls. At Semper Paratus Legal House LLP, we’ve seen the same mistakes trip up entrepreneurs time and again. Here are the five most common ones, and how to avoid them.
Mistake #1: Choosing the Wrong SIC Codes
Standard Industrial Classification (SIC) codes describe what your company does. Picking the wrong ones can cause issues with banks, HMRC, and even your business insurance. You can select up to four SIC codes — choose them carefully to accurately reflect your business activities. We help every client select the right codes during formation, preventing headaches later.
Mistake #2: Confusing the Registered Office with the Director’s Service Address
This is the single most common error we see. The registered office is your company’s official address — it appears on public record at Companies House. The director’s service address is where official correspondence for directors is sent. Using your home address as the registered office means it becomes publicly visible forever. Our service includes a prestigious London registered office at 42-44 Bishopsgate, EC2N 4AH.
Mistake #3: Missing Filing Deadlines
UK companies have strict filing obligations: Confirmation Statement (every 12 months), Annual Accounts (9 months after year end), Corporation Tax Return CT600 (12 months after accounting period ends). Miss these and penalties start from £150 — even if your company was dormant.
Mistake #4: Not Understanding Trading vs Dormant
Many entrepreneurs register a company, then wait months before starting to trade — assuming no filings are needed. Wrong. Even dormant companies must file annual accounts and confirmation statements.
Mistake #5: DIY Registration Without Understanding UK Company Law
Companies House makes the form look simple, but the Memorandum and Articles of Association are legally binding documents. Poorly drafted articles cause serious problems — especially with multiple shareholders.
Start Your LTD the Right Way
Book a free consultation with our Polish-speaking team.
📧 [email protected] | 📞 PL: +48 530 447 230 | UK: +44 745 638 6117
🔗 Book a call
]]>
