When you set up a company, one of the first things you have to do before you can start trading is to formally register your business with Companies House.
You can submit your application online or by post (using form IN01). Once your application is approved, you’ll be issued a certificate of incorporation. Read more about the formation process here.
This document demonstrates you have met all the legal requirements set out under the Companies Act 2006, and that the company now exists as a legal entity with a distinct identity from that of any directors and shareholders.
If you apply to register your company online, you’ll receive your certificate of incorporation by email as a PDF, which you can save and/or print. This often takes less than four hours.
The process takes a bit longer by post, but once your application is approved, your certificate should arrive within a few days.
What information is contained on the certificate?
The certificate of incorporation includes the following details about your company:
Information on Certificate
What it Means
Company name
The legal name of your company
Date of incorporation
Confirms when the company was ‘born’
Company registration number (CRN)
Unique ID used in all official correspondence
Jurisdiction
Where the company is registered – e.g. England & Wales, Scotland
Type of company
Whether it’s private or public, limited by shares or guarantee
Unlimited status
Shows if the company has unlimited liability (very rare)
Registrar details
The name and official seal of the Registrar of Companies
Royal Coat of Arms
Self explanatory
Note: The CRN (company number) is a unique identifier that you will use to interact with banks, institutions, Companies House, and HMRC throughout the company’s lifetime.
The certificate of incorporation does not show who owns the company or how it will be run. This information can be found in the company’s statutory registers and articles of association.
Do you need to show your certificate?
There are several situations where you may be asked to provide your certificate of incorporation.
For obvious reasons and to mitigate the potential for fraud, most institutions will search the Companies House register directly.
Situation
Certificate Required?
Notes
Opening a business bank account
Sometimes
Banks may check Companies House instead
Applying for a loan or grant
Often
Proof of registration is typically needed
Issuing new shares
Usually
Investors may request a copy
Selling the company
Yes
Part of due diligence
Signing contracts
Sometimes
To verify the legal existence of the company
Even if not requested, you are legally required to retain your certificate and keep it in a safe place. It forms part of your statutory company records.
This is a supplementary certificate and must be kept alongside your original. All other registration details, such as your company number, remain unchanged.
Can I get a replacement certificate?
If you’ve lost your certificate, you can:
Download a free digital copy from the Companies House register, if your company was formed online
Contact your company formation agent if you used one
Request a certified paper copy from Companies House for a small fee
Tip: Always back up your certificate digitally and retain printed copies with your company records.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to display the certificate at my registered office?
No, there is no legal requirement to display your certificate of incorporation at your registered office address. However, you must ensure it is safely stored as part of your company’s statutory records, either physically or digitally.
What if my certificate details are incorrect?
If there is an error on your certificate, such as a misspelt company name, contact Companies House as soon as possible. You may need to file a correction or reapply depending on the nature of the mistake. Most common issues can be resolved quickly if flagged early.
Can I use my certificate as proof of trading status?
Not necessarily. The certificate only proves that the company has been incorporated. It does not confirm whether the company is actively trading. Banks, lenders, and HMRC may require additional documents, such as business bank statements or VAT registration, to assess trading activity.
Can I have more than one copy of the certificate?
Yes. You can print and keep multiple copies of the digital version, and you may request additional certified copies from Companies House if needed. It’s good practice to retain both digital and printed versions.
Is a certificate of incorporation the same as a business licence?
No. Incorporation gives your company legal status but does not replace any industry-specific licences or permits you may need to operate. For example, a financial services firm may still require authorisation from the FCA.
