COMPANY FORMATION AGENTS

Do you need a company formation agent?

The short answer

A company formation agent submits your incorporation application to Companies House electronically and usually adds services such as registered office and service addresses, pre-submission checks, extra documents, privacy options or a linked business account. You do not need an agent to form a company, but one can save time and reduce errors.

Key facts

Agents file through Companies House software filing
UK agents must be registered as Authorised Corporate Service Providers to verify identity
Agents can provide privacy address services
Packages range from partner-funded to premium bundles
You can switch provider for ongoing services later

How to choose an agent

Check the total cost, what is included, renewal prices for addresses, support hours, identity verification options and whether a lower price depends on another subscription.

Our selected agents

Tide is our featured partner and the lowest headline price among our selection. ANNA Money combines banking with optional admin. 1st Formations offers the widest package range, from Digital to Non-Residents. Mint Formations (from £4.99 + VAT), Rapid Formations (from £2.99) and Your Company Formations (from £2.48 + VAT) charge low package fees with the £100 Companies House fee added at checkout.

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Tide is a paid partner. We may earn commission. Prices and conditions can change; check provider terms.

Frequently asked questions

Are formation agents regulated?

Agents providing company formation are subject to anti-money laundering supervision, and those verifying identity for Companies House must be Authorised Corporate Service Providers.

Can an agent be my registered office?

Many agents offer a registered office service, usually for an annual fee.