Starting a business in England in 2018 is an exciting prospect. With the UK economy continuing to grow, there are plenty of opportunities for entrepreneurs to make their mark. However, it is important to understand the legal and financial requirements of setting up a business in England before taking the plunge. This guide will provide an overview of the steps you need to take to get your business off the ground, from registering with Companies House and HMRC to finding premises and recruiting staff. With the right advice and support, you can be sure that your business will be successful.
How to Register a Business in England: A Step-by-Step Guide
1. Choose a Business Name: Before registering your business, you must choose a name that is not already in use. You can check the availability of a name by searching the Companies House register.
2. Register with Companies House: Once you have chosen a name, you must register your business with Companies House. This can be done online or by post. You will need to provide information such as the company’s address, directors’ details and share capital.
3. Register for Corporation Tax: Once your company is registered with Companies House, you must also register for Corporation Tax with HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC). This can be done online or by post and requires information such as the company’s address and type of business activity.
4. Set Up a Business Bank Account: Once your company is registered with Companies House and HMRC, you will need to open a business bank account in order to manage your finances. You will need to provide proof of identity and proof of address when opening an account.
5. Register for VAT: If your business has an annual turnover of more than £85,000, then you must register for Value Added Tax (VAT). This can be done online or by post and requires information such as the company’s address and type of business activity.
6. Comply With Other Regulations: Depending on the type of business you are running, there may be other regulations that you must comply with in order to operate legally in England. These may include health and safety regulations or environmental regulations, so it is important to research these before starting up your business.
The Benefits of Starting a Business in England
England is an attractive destination for entrepreneurs looking to start a business. The country offers a range of benefits that make it an ideal place to launch a business. These include:
1. Access to a Highly Skilled Workforce: England has one of the most highly educated and skilled workforces in the world, making it an ideal place to recruit talented employees. This means businesses can access the best talent available and ensure their workforce is well-equipped to meet their needs.
2. Favourable Tax System: England has a favourable tax system for businesses, with low corporate tax rates and generous allowances for research and development activities. This makes it easier for businesses to remain competitive and profitable in the long-term.
3. Access to Funding: There are numerous sources of funding available in England, including grants, loans, venture capital and angel investment. This makes it easier for businesses to access the funds they need to get started or expand their operations.
4. Pro-Business Environment: The government in England is committed to creating an environment that is conducive to business growth and success. This includes initiatives such as reducing red tape, providing support for start-ups and encouraging innovation through tax incentives and grants.
5. Strategic Location: England is strategically located at the heart of Europe, making it easy for businesses to access markets across the continent as well as further afield in North America and Asia Pacific regions.
Overall, starting a business in England offers numerous advantages that make it an attractive option for entrepreneurs looking to launch or grow their business operations.
Common Challenges Faced When Starting a Business in England
Starting a business in England can be a daunting task, as there are many challenges that must be overcome. These include:
1. Obtaining the necessary funding: Securing the necessary funds to start a business can be difficult, especially for those who do not have access to traditional sources of finance such as bank loans or venture capital.
2. Finding the right premises: Finding suitable premises for your business can be challenging, as there are often limited options available and they may not meet all of your needs.
3. Navigating regulations and taxes: Understanding the various regulations and taxes that apply to businesses in England can be complex and time-consuming. It is important to ensure that you are compliant with all relevant laws and regulations before starting your business.
4. Hiring staff: Finding the right staff for your business can be difficult, as there is often a shortage of skilled workers in certain areas of England. Additionally, recruiting staff can be expensive and time-consuming.
5. Establishing a customer base: Establishing a customer base is essential for any successful business, but it can take time to build up a loyal customer base in England due to the competitive nature of the market.
In conclusion, setting up a business in England in 2018 is a great opportunity for entrepreneurs. With the right guidance and support, it is possible to establish a successful business in England. The UK government provides a range of incentives and resources to help businesses get started, including access to finance, tax reliefs and grants. Additionally, there are many professional services available to help entrepreneurs navigate the process of setting up their business. With the right advice and support, entrepreneurs can take advantage of the many opportunities available in England and create a successful business.