For all businesses, there are a number of registrations which need to be considered, and these are as follows:

• Inland Revenue
• Department of Social Security
• Customs & Excise

For all businesses, there are a number of registrations which need to be considered, and these are as follows:

Inland Revenue
Firstly, there is a legal requirement to notify the Inland Revenue that you have commenced business, and it is advisable to do this fairly promptly to be on the safe side. The Inland Revenue will then send you an enquiry form 41G for completion. Although this asks for only basic information, we suggest that you speak to us before completing the form.

The above procedure does not apply to limited companies, as the Inland Revenue will be notified automatically by Companies House. The enquiry form sent out by the Inland Revenue in respect of limited companies will be form CT41G.

If you employ staff, you will need to apply for a PAYE (Pay As You Earn) scheme to be set up. If you operate through a company, you will need a PAYE scheme even if you have no staff, as your own salary will need to be subject to PAYE and NIC (National Insurance Contributions).

If you want help setting up your payroll or want an accountant to do it at a fixed cost click here

Department of Social Security
If your business is not operated through a limited company, you will need to register separately for national insurance contributions. Contact your local Department of Social Security office and they will send you a registration form.

Customs & Excise
Whether or not your business is run through a limited company, you will need to register for VAT once your turnover (i.e. sales, fee income, etc) exceeds the registration limit (currently £52,000). In many cases it is advantageous to make a voluntary registration before your turnover reaches this figure. We will be pleased to advise you on this and on the other registrations already mentioned.

Licences
Many businesses need licences from local administration offices in order to trade legally. We can provide you with a checklist on request, and we recommend that you take legal advice if in any doubt.