Starting a UK Company? Here’s How to Pick the Best Helper
So, you’re ready to launch your own limited company in the UK. That’s fantastic! But getting started with all the paperwork can feel a bit tricky. That’s where a company formation agent comes in. Think of them as a helpful guide who handles all the official stuff for you, quickly and correctly.
There are many options out there, but which one is right for you? Let’s compare one of the most popular services, 1st Formations, with other top choices to help you decide.
Meet the Players: A Quick Look at Your Options
1st Formations: The All-Rounder ⭐
1st Formations is a big name in the UK, having helped over a million businesses get started. They are known for being reliable, fast, and great with customer service.
- Super Fast: Your company can be registered on the same day (usually in just 3-6 hours!). 🚀
Great for Everyone: They offer full support for both UK residents and people living overseas. This is a huge plus for international founders.
Top-Notch Support: If you have a question, you can actually call them, email, or use live chat.
All-in-One Packages: They offer everything from a legal London address to help with business banking.
Amazing Reviews: They have a stellar 4.9/5 rating on Trustpilot.
2. Rapid Formations: The Speedy Local Choice 🏎️
As the name suggests, Rapid Formations is all about speed and efficiency. They are very similar to 1st Formations and are a solid choice for UK-based entrepreneurs.
Key Features:
Low Price: Starts at just £12.99 + VAT.
Same-Day Setup: Just as fast as 1st Formations.
Good for UK Residents: Their main focus is on helping local founders.
3. Companies Made Simple: The Straightforward Option.
This is one of the oldest players in the game. Companies Made Simple is perfect if you just need a basic, no-fuss company setup.
Key Features:
Easy to Use: Their website is very user-friendly.
Useful Extras: You can add on things like a domain name or help with your annual paperwork.
- Fast Registration: Also offers a 3-6 hour turnaround.
A Special Note for International Founders
If you do not live in the UK, your options can be limited. This is where 1st Formations really shines. They make it incredibly easy for anyone, anywhere in the world, to:
Set up a UK limited company completely online.
Get a legal London address (which you need by law).
Open a UK business bank account with one of their partners.
Receive all your official documents, mailed right to your doorstep.
This makes them the top choice for international entrepreneurs, freelancers, and global startups.
So, Which One Should You Choose?
It all depends on what you need!
For the best overall experience, especially for non-UK residents: Go with 1st Formations. Their support and full range of services are unmatched.
If you’re in the UK and just want the cheapest, fastest option: Rapid Formations or 1st Formations are both excellent choices.
If you want to bundle your company setup with accounting: Osome is designed for you.
For a simple, no-fuss setup with a few handy extras: Companies Made Simple is a solid pick.
