What is a certificate of incorporation in the UK? 

A certificate of incorporation is one of the first official documents you’ll come across when setting up a limited company in the UK. 🏁 

It’s a key milestone that confirms your business is legally up and running. It might not be the most thrilling paperwork, but trust us, it’s a big deal! 

What is a certificate of incorporation in the UK? 

A certificate of incorporation is the official confirmation from Companies House that your company exists. 🎉

Also known as a business registration certificate or incorporation document, it proves that your company is recognised by the government and has its own legal identity.

In practical terms, this means your company can enter into contracts, be held accountable and carry its own liabilities, so you’re not personally responsible for business debts (your personal assets are protected). 😅

Key functions of a certificate of incorporation 

Your certificate of incorporation UK isn’t just something to file away or hang on the wall. It’s what gives your company the legal power to operate. Without it, your business can’t officially do… well, much at all. 

But, with this certificate, you can:

• Open a business bank account: banks usually won’t let you open a business account without proof that your company legally exists. 
• Enter into contracts: from hiring employees to signing with suppliers, your company needs legal status to enter binding agreements in its own name. ✍️
• Buy or lease property: need office space, a shopfront or a warehouse? Your company needs to exist as a legal entity to sign a lease or purchase property.
• Conduct business abroad: thinking about going international? Many overseas authorities and partners will ask to see your incorporation documents before working with you. 🌍

In short, the certificate is what turns your business idea into something real. It’s your official green light to start trading, building, hiring and growing. 

What information is included in a certificate of incorporation? 

In the UK, a certificate of incorporation lays out the key facts about your company. In other words, the who, what and when of your business. It includes:

• Registered company name: your business’s official name. ✅
• Company Registration Number (CRN): a unique identifier for your company.
• Company’s registered address: the official address where legal documents are sent.
• Date of incorporation: the date your company became legally recognised. 📅
• Company type: limited by shares, LLP, public limited, etc.
• Issuing registrar: the authority that issued the certificate.
• Relevant legislation: such as the Companies Act 2006. 🧑‍⚖️

All of this info forms part of your company’s official record and helps to confirm its legal status.

How to get a certificate of incorporation 

Getting a certificate of incorporation in the UK is pretty straightforward and you’ve got two options: online or by post. Both go through Companies House, but the speed (and paperwork) varies. Here’s how it works:

Getting a certificate of incorporation online 

The quickest route! If you register your company online, either directly through Companies House or via a company formation agent, you’ll usually get your certificate in digital PDF format by email. 📧

Most applications are processed within 24 hours, so you could officially be in business by tomorrow.

Getting a certificate of incorporation by post 

Prefer pen and paper? If you apply by post, your certificate of incorporation will be printed and sent to you once your application is approved.

This option takes a little longer (about 8 to 10 working days), but you’ll receive a hard copy for your records. 📬

How to get a replacement certificate of incorporation 

If you lose your certificate of incorporation or need a fresh copy, you have options:

Download a Copy 

The quickest and easiest fix. Head over to the Companies House and you can download a digital PDF copy anytime, for free. 💸

Perfect if you just need a version for your records or to email over to someone.

Order a certified Copy 

Need something a bit more official (say, for a bank or legal paperwork)? You can order a certified copy online or by phone.

It costs £15 for the standard service and it typically takes around 4 working days to process.

Certified copies come with a Companies House stamp and signature, so they’re good for when you need to prove your company’s legit. ✅

When might I need a new certificate of incorporation? 

There are several reasons why you might need a new certificate of incorporation in the UK, such as:

• Changing your company name 
• Updating your registered office address
• Needing proof of company status for legal or business purpose 📄

In each case, Companies House will issue an updated certificate to reflect the changes, no drama, just official confirmation that everything’s above board. 

Ready, set, incorporate! 

The certificate of incorporation UK is more than just a piece of paper, it’s your company’s official stamp of approval. Whether you’re getting your first one, replacing a lost copy or updating your business details, the process is simple and straightforward through Companies House.