Starting a business can be one of the most exciting decisions of your life — but also one of the most complex. From legal requirements to official documentation, the process can be overwhelming for first-time entrepreneurs. That’s where 1st Formations steps in.
With over one million companies formed and years of trusted experience, 1st Formations is the UK’s premier online company formation agent, making business registration fast, compliant, and hassle-free.
Whether you’re a UK resident, a non-resident setting up a UK-based entity, or an existing business owner looking to restructure, this guide explains why 1st Formations is your ideal partner in 2025.
Who Are 1st Formations?
Founded in London, 1st Formations is an authorised Companies House eFiling partner, offering fully online company formation and post-incorporation services. They assist with everything from registering your business name to providing professional registered office addresses and legal documentation.
Quick Overview
- Specializes in limited company formations in the UK
- Provides support for both residents and non-UK residents
- Offers add-ons like registered office, VAT registration, and business banking
- Fast processing with same-day formation options
- Rated Excellent on Trustpilot by thousands of real users
Why Choose 1st Formations in 2025?
There are many providers offering UK business formation services, but few offer the credibility, range, and support that 1st Formations provides. Here’s why they stand out:
Key Advantages
- Over 1 million companies formed successfully
- Fast and fully digital process with Companies House integration
- Excellent customer support via phone, email, and live chat
- Transparent pricing with no hidden fees
- Free access to essential startup resources and guides
- Flexible packages to suit various business needs
- Exclusive services for non-UK residents
Step-by-Step: How to Form a UK Company with 1st Formations
1. Choose Your Company Name
- Use the built-in name search tool to check availability
- Avoid restricted or sensitive words
- Register your business name instantly if available
2. Select a Package
- Choose from entry-level to premium packages
- Customize with optional add-ons like VAT registration, printed documents, etc.
- Decide whether to include services like registered address or mail forwarding
3. Submit Details
- Add director and shareholder details
- Input business address information
- Submit electronically to Companies House
4. Get Incorporated
- Receive your Certificate of Incorporation, share certificates, and memorandum
- Most companies formed within 3 to 6 working hours
- Documents delivered digitally and via post if selected
Available Company Formation Packages
1st Formations offers a variety of packages for different types of entrepreneurs.
| Package Name | Price (GBP) | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Digital | £12.99 | Company formation only. Digital documents included. |
| Digital Plus | £29.99 | Includes printed documents, share certificates, and register. |
| Privacy | £39.99 | Includes Registered Office & Service Address. |
| Comprehensive | £69.99 | Full suite including VAT registration, printed docs, and business extras. |
| Non-Resident | £124.99 | Tailored for overseas clients. Includes address, mail forwarding, support. |
Prices are inclusive of the Companies House £12 filing fee.
What’s Included in Most Packages?
While services vary slightly across packages, these are commonly included:
Core Inclusions
- Companies House registration
- Certificate of Incorporation
- Memorandum & Articles of Association
- Company share certificates
- Statutory registers
- Digital delivery of documents
- Optional business bank account offers
Services for Non-UK Residents
1st Formations is a top choice for international entrepreneurs who want to start a UK company remotely. No UK address or residency is required.
Non-Resident Benefits
- Dedicated Non-Resident Package
- London registered office and service address
- International mail forwarding (optional add-on)
- Support team with experience in global compliance
- Tax and banking guides for overseas directors
Post-Incorporation Services
Starting a business doesn’t end with incorporation — 1st Formations offers robust post-formation support.
Additional Services
- Registered Office Address: Protect your home address from public records
- Service Address: For directors, shareholders, and PSCs
- Business Address: For day-to-day mail correspondence
- VAT Registration: Register your company for VAT with HMRC
- PAYE Registration: Set up your payroll scheme
- Confirmation Statement Filing: Annual compliance support
- Dormant Company Accounts: For inactive companies
Why 1st Formations is Trusted by Entrepreneurs
Reputation and Reliability
- Rated Excellent on Trustpilot with thousands of reviews
- Featured in leading publications and business guides
- FCA-registered for specific business services
- Offices in Central London with real human support
Fast and Transparent Process
- Most formations complete within hours, not days
- Real-time updates via email
- No upselling or surprise charges after checkout
1st Formations vs Competitors
Here’s how 1st Formations compares to other UK company formation agents.
| Feature | 1st Formations | Companies Made Simple | Rapid Formations | The Formations Company |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Registered Companies | 1M+ | 1M+ | 1M+ | Unknown |
| Non-Resident Services | Yes | No | Yes | No |
| Free Business Banking Referrals | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Physical Office in London | Yes | Yes | Yes | No |
| Trustpilot Score (2025) | 4.9/5 | 4.8/5 | 4.9/5 | 4.6/5 |
| Starting Price | £12.99 | £12.99 | £12.99 | £9.99 |
| Live Chat Support | Yes | Yes | Yes | No |
Ideal for All Types of Entrepreneurs
1st Formations works well for various individuals and organisations.
Who It’s Best For
- First-time UK business owners
- Freelancers and consultants setting up limited companies
- Small businesses formalising their structure
- Overseas entrepreneurs entering the UK market
- Businesses needing a virtual office solution
Customer Testimonials
Thousands of real entrepreneurs have chosen 1st Formations. Here’s what some have said:
“The process was smooth, fast, and transparent. I received my certificate and documents within 2 hours.” — Jordan T.
“I run my business from India and 1st Formations helped me set up in the UK without any issues. Highly recommended for non-residents.” — Rishi M.
“Their customer service team was fantastic — clear, professional, and supportive at every step.” — Laura K.
Free Resources & Extras
1st Formations doesn’t just leave you after formation. They offer:
- Free business startup guides
- Company admin portal access
- Templates for company minutes, shares, and resolutions
- Referral schemes and affiliate program
- Discounts with partnered legal, tax, and banking providers
How to Get Started
Setting up your company is quick and easy:
- Visit 1st Formations’ official website
- Use the company name checker to validate availability
- Choose a package that suits your business needs
- Submit your details using the guided form
- Receive your incorporation documents digitally in hours
Pro Tips for New Entrepreneurs
- Choose a business name that’s future-proof and brandable
- Start with the Privacy or Comprehensive Package if you want fewer admin tasks
- Consider adding the confirmation statement service to stay compliant annually
- Don’t forget to open a UK business bank account (referral included)
- Keep digital and printed copies of all your legal documents
1. Understanding UK Company Structures
Before choosing your package, it’s crucial to understand the types of legal entities you can form in the UK. 1st Formations helps you navigate this with ease.
Most Popular Structures:
- Private Company Limited by Shares (Ltd): Ideal for most small businesses; shareholders’ liability is limited to the value of their shares.
- Private Company Limited by Guarantee: Suitable for non-profits, clubs, and associations.
- Limited Liability Partnership (LLP): Perfect for professional firms and joint ventures.
- Public Limited Company (PLC): For larger businesses planning to list on the stock exchange.
Each structure has specific compliance and tax implications. 1st Formations provides detailed guidance when you select your structure during registration.
2. 1st Formations and HMRC Compliance
Forming a company is just the beginning. Staying compliant with UK authorities like HMRC (Her Majesty’s Revenue & Customs) is vital. 1st Formations simplifies the process by offering:
Key HMRC Services:
- VAT registration support
- PAYE registration for hiring employees
- Guidance on corporation tax obligations
- Reminders for filing deadlines and annual accounts
They also offer a Confirmation Statement Filing Service to help you meet annual Companies House filing requirements.
3. Digital Tools and Online Portal
1st Formations provides every customer with access to their client admin portal, streamlining your business setup and maintenance.
Portal Features:
- Access incorporation documents 24/7
- Manage address services and mail forwarding
- Download share certificates and registers
- Renew services and add additional features anytime
- Track filings and compliance deadlines
This tool is especially valuable for users operating remotely or internationally.
4. Partnerships and Integrations
1st Formations has formed strategic partnerships with banks, accounting firms, and legal service providers — all aimed at simplifying your startup journey.
Included Partnerships:
- Barclays, Monzo, Tide, Revolut, and Cashplus for business banking
- Integration with accounting platforms like QuickBooks and Xero
- Legal services for terms, policies, and shareholder agreements
- Discounts on domain registration and website hosting platforms
These partnerships allow you to build a fully operational company within a few days of formation.
5. Data Security and Privacy
When dealing with sensitive business and personal information, security is non-negotiable. 1st Formations prioritizes:
Security Commitments:
- GDPR compliance for all personal data
- SSL-encrypted website and transaction process
- Secure storage of legal documents
- UK-based data centers with regulated access
Your documents and identity information remain protected, making 1st Formations a reliable choice for professionals and corporates alike.
6. The 1st Formations Customer Experience
1st Formations doesn’t just offer services — they deliver a smooth, user-focused experience. From the moment you land on their website, you’re guided through each step.
What Users Love:
- Intuitive website and mobile-friendly design
- Clear instructions with no jargon
- Prompt email updates on every stage of the formation
- Support staff that are knowledgeable, polite, and patient
- Consistently high ratings across independent review platforms
Their dedication to customer satisfaction is a key reason why thousands choose them every month.
Final Thoughts: Is 1st Formations Worth It?
Absolutely. If you’re planning to start a business in the UK, 1st Formations offers everything you need in one secure, well-priced, and professional platform.
With unmatched customer service, transparent pricing, and services tailored for both local and global founders, it continues to be the top-rated company formation agent in 2025.
Whether you’re a first-time founder or a seasoned entrepreneur, you’ll find that 1st Formations makes incorporation seamless and stress-free.