Tax & payroll
Link your company to HMRC’s Corporation Tax system and obtain the necessary references (including UTR) — a timed obligation that starts after formation and does not wait for “the first big profit”.
See also UK company formation, 2026 cost breakdown, and packages.
Usually you must register the company for Corporation Tax within months of starting to trade or according to HMRC notices. Waiting “until we make a profit” is a common cause of penalties. Even limited activity may start the clock. We set registration to your company’s actual dates, not a feeling of market readiness.
A Unique Taxpayer Reference is a tax reference you use when dealing with HMRC and filing returns. Without organising this file, returns are delayed or updates are rejected. We explain where the number is stored and who uses it (you or your accountant).
Dormant Accounts are filed with Companies House for a period with no significant accounting activity. That does not necessarily cancel dealing with HMRC about the company’s status. We explain both paths so you do not file Dormant while issuing real invoices — or the reverse.
Drawing profits from a UK Ltd to your personal account is subject to the rules of your country of residence and may be affected by double-tax treaties. The registration page does not replace personal tax advice; we set the framework and point you to a specialist before large distributions.
Registration activates the file. Tax due is calculated on profits in the later return. It may be zero in a loss-making or dormant period within the conditions.
An accountant or tax preparer. We prepare registration and the timetable; the figures are their responsibility unless you contract that explicitly.
Do not wait for a second letter. Start registration/settlement immediately; delay increases the penalty. Message us with company details so we can assess the position.
Rates change (for example 19% for smaller companies and 25% above certain thresholds with Marginal Relief). We confirm the rate in force with your accountant when you ask — do not rely on an old figure.
Yes entirely. CS01 is for Companies House; Corporation Tax is for HMRC. Two separate paths with different deadlines.
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