Business Documents
Complete support for starting and running your business in the UK
Business Documents & Company Formation
From company registration to bank accounts, we handle everything to ensure your business is set up correctly from day one.
How We Can Help You
STP Finance provides comprehensive business setup services. We don't just give you documents - we guide you through every step, handle paperwork, and ensure your business is set up correctly from day one.
Company Registration
We register your company with Companies House
Bank Account Setup
We help you open business bank accounts
Tax Registration
HMRC registration for VAT, PAYE, Corporation Tax
Ongoing Support
Accounting, bookkeeping, and compliance
Limited Company Formation
We register your limited company with Companies House, prepare Articles of Association, and issue share certificates. Typical completion: 24-48 hours.
What you need:
- Company name (we check availability)
- Director details (name, address, DOB)
- Shareholder information
- Registered office address
Business Bank Account
We assist with opening business bank accounts at major UK banks. Essential for separating personal and business finances.
What you need:
- Company registration documents
- Director ID (passport/driving license)
- Proof of address (utility bill)
- Business plan (for some banks)
Tax Registration
We register your business with HMRC for Corporation Tax, VAT (if applicable), and PAYE (if you have employees).
What you need:
- Company registration number
- Business activity description
- Expected turnover (for VAT)
- Employee details (for PAYE)
Sole Trader Setup
Simpler than a limited company - we register you as self-employed with HMRC and set up your accounting system.
What you need:
- National Insurance number
- Business name (if trading name)
- Business activity description
- Start date of trading
Documents Required by Business Activity
Retail & E-commerce
- Company registration - Limited company or sole trader
- Business bank account - Separate from personal finances
- VAT registration - Required if turnover exceeds £85,000
- Product liability insurance - Protects against product defects
- Terms & conditions - For website and sales
- Privacy policy - GDPR compliance for customer data
Professional Services (Consulting, Freelancing)
- Company registration - Usually limited company for liability protection
- Business bank account - Essential for invoicing clients
- Professional indemnity insurance - Covers advice and services
- Client contracts - Terms of engagement and payment
- IR35 assessment - If working through limited company
Food & Hospitality
- Company registration - Limited company recommended
- Food hygiene certificate - Level 2 minimum for handlers
- Food business registration - With local authority (free)
- Premises license - If selling alcohol
- Public liability insurance - Minimum £5 million cover
- Allergen information - Legal requirement for menus
Construction & Trades
- Company registration - Limited company for larger projects
- CIS registration - Construction Industry Scheme with HMRC
- Public liability insurance - Minimum £5 million, often £10 million required
- Employers' liability insurance - If you have employees (legally required)
- Trade certifications - Gas Safe, NICEIC, etc. depending on trade
- Health & safety policy - Required if 5+ employees
Property & Landlords
- Company registration - Limited company for tax efficiency
- Landlord insurance - Buildings and contents cover
- Gas safety certificate - Annual inspection required
- EPC certificate - Energy Performance Certificate (minimum E rating)
- Tenancy agreements - AST (Assured Shorthold Tenancy)
- Deposit protection - Government-approved scheme
Business Bank Accounts - What to Expect
Traditional Banks (Barclays, HSBC, Lloyds, NatWest)
Pros: Branch access, established reputation, business loans available
Cons: Monthly fees (£5-£15), slower application process (1-2 weeks)
Best for: Established businesses, those needing loans or overdrafts
Digital Banks (Tide, Starling, Revolut Business)
Pros: Free accounts available, instant setup (same day), modern app features
Cons: No physical branches, limited lending options
Best for: Startups, freelancers, online businesses
💡 Our Recommendation
Start with a digital bank (Tide or Starling) for quick setup and free banking. Once established and needing credit facilities, add a traditional bank account. Many businesses use both.
Typical Timeline for Business Setup
Company Registration
Submit application to Companies House, receive registration number
Bank Account Application
Apply for business bank account (digital banks: same day, traditional: 1-2 weeks)
Tax Registration
Register for Corporation Tax, VAT (if needed), PAYE (if employees)
Insurance & Compliance
Arrange business insurance, set up accounting software, prepare contracts
Ready to Trade
All systems in place, you can start invoicing and trading legally
Ready to Start Your Business?
Don't navigate the complex world of business setup alone. Our experienced team has helped hundreds of businesses get started correctly. We handle all the paperwork, registrations, and compliance requirements so you can focus on growing your business.
Book a free consultation to discuss your business plans and get a personalized setup package tailored to your needs.