Search Results

Apply to form a company for FREE in 2 minutes here at Start Up A-Z! Start up your business with us using our company formations and registration service. Free Company Formation In Just 2 Minutes. Check Availability Limited Limited Highly recommended by our partners Where are you on your startup journey? Follow the SUAZ method for the best chance of success The Start Up A-Z Method Let us know how we can help Why we care about your success ⦿ Your success is our success ⦿ Your success will encourage other new business owners to work with Start Up A-Z ⦿ It makes us feel good and makes our job worthwhile ⦿ We can scale with your company and offer solutions to meet your needs as your business grows Hi, nice to meet you! We’re not just another company formation agent. We’re your Start Up A-Z We’re here from A-Z, from the moment you submit your company registration, to landing your first sale. With Start Up A-Z, you’ll have the tools and knowledge to succeed, and the support you need to thrive. 
We do more than just form your company. You’ll gain a support system to grow your business for the long haul. After all, the SUAZ team has been in your shoes. We know the ways to succeed and the things to avoid, and would love to be a part of your success story. Think of us as a free business partner who’ll have your back every step of the way. Find out more Destination Highstreet: From 0 to 7 locations in under 6 months Destination Bromsgrove came to us with a dream - to build the UK’s best high street app. Our design team built their website and created app designs to take the idea to local high street stakeholders. From there, they secured local funding to build the app with the help of SUAZ-recommended developers. Thanks to SUAZ, Destination Bromsgrove secured an effective, low-cost solution to get their name on the map.
 The result? Over 90% of high street businesses in the area now use Destination Bromsgrove to advertise their services. ⦿ 90% of High Street Businesses in Bromsgrove use Destination App ⦿ 5% of local population downloaded the application ⦿ From nothing on 12th of October to a website 21 days and a working app within 60 days ⦿ Destination have just launched in 6 other high streets. Why choose us as your company formations agent? You’ll gain more than just company formation. Some of the benefits you’ll receive include... Get an exclusive access to Business Support Club Empower your startup journey with BSC Once you’ve completed the company formation process with us, you’ll get exclusive access to a Business Support Club (BSC) account.
 You can browse BSC’s business marketplace - your one-stop shop for every service you could think of to grow your new enterprise. 

 From marketing support to accounting, you’ll find a variety of trusted suppliers who are eager and waiting to support you. Get ready to unlock your business’ full potential. Take a look at our services. We're here to help you with your new business We have articles for you to browse Do you need more information in forming a company? By Start Up A-Z How much does it cost to set up a limited company? It can cost from £50 to set up a limited company, but at Start Up A-Z we cover this expense, meaning you can register a business for free with us. Learn more. 8 min read By Start Up A-Z What it takes to be a FTSE CEO 8 min read Button By Start Up A-Z 5 Grants to Apply for When Starting a Business 15 min read Button By Start Up A-Z Companies House register drops for the first time since 2012 5 min read Button See all articles Got Questions About Forming A Company? Words from our clients / 4.8 / 344 Reviews Why Choose Start Up A-Z? About UK Company Formation In the UK, we use the national registrar of companies, Companies House, to form new businesses. You can do this yourself, using the Companies House website found here. It costs a one-off £12 filing fee to form your company and subject to checks, your business will be formed, usually within 48 hours. Why Choose a Formation Agent? Customer Service Most Company Formation agents are here to help and advise you, as a customer you have a right to be treated with respect and understanding through, what can be, a complex and daunting process. Extra Perks You’ll be given a few freebies and introductions alongside your company formation to introduce you to businesses and products or services that can help your company thrive. Easy Process Most formation agents have perfected the process to enable Companies to be formed in as little time, and as few clicks as possible. It’s in our, and your, interests to make the process quick and concise. Why Choose Start Up A-Z? We make things simple. With Start Up A-Z, your application can take as little as two minutes. Why? Because we make some fair assumptions along the way. We know our customers aren’t big, complex companies, they are small and starting, often meaning that a lot of the information that lengthens the Companies House process is not applicable. We support. Not only do we give help and advice to you during your company formation, but also into to the future, as you need it. We and our partners are here to be the reliable foundation stone of your business. This means your calls and questions are just as welcome on day one-thousand as day one. Should I be a Limited Company or a Sole Trader? Limited Company As a limited company, you enjoy limited liability which protects your personal assets. Unlike sole traders, a limited company is legally separate from its business owner, who has limited liability. Having 'limited liability' status means the company is an entity in its own right. This has several advantages. Assuming no fraud has taken place, 'limited liability' means you will not be personally liable for any financial losses made by the business. A limited company can give you added protection, should things go wrong. Because a limited company is a distinct entity from its owners, it may be a little easier for a company to secure business loans and investment. A limited company may benefit from tax advantages. You would be advised to seek professional help to make maximum use of the rules and regulations with regard to pensions, dividends and car ownership. Sole Trader A sole trader is somebody who runs their business as an individual, they are the sole owner of the business and any profit after tax is theirs. However, as a sole trader, you will be personally responsible for your company's debts, so your personal assets could be at risk. How do I start a Limited Company? Companies House The first thing you need to know when starting a limited company is who Companies House are. Companies House are a UK government executive agency who register UK company information. This means that they are the body that incorporates, dissolves and publishes information on all UK companies. Key Responsibilities: incorporate and dissolve limited companies examine and store company information make information available to the public What is a Limited Company? Limited by shares companies are usually businesses that make a profit. This means the company: is legally separate from the people who run it has separate finances from your personal ones has shares and shareholders can keep any profits it makes after paying tax At Start Up A-Z, we only form Limited Companies, making your options as a new business extremely straightforward. We believe that a Limited company is usually the best option for those new to business and have made a concerted effort to make the process as easy as possible. Our Simple Process Choose a company name and check if it's available. We form Ltd and Limited companies. Enter your personal information so we can add you as the companies director. Your director information will be on Companies House. Enter your company information. This will also be submitted to Companies House and be available online. Review your application and make sure everything is correct. We'll submit your application to Companies House and your company will be formed. Should I be a Limited Company or a Sole Trader? Limited Company As a limited company, you enjoy limited liability which protects your personal assets. Unlike sole traders, a limited company is legally separate from its business owner, who has limited liability. Having 'limited liability' status means the company is an entity in its own right. This has several advantages. Assuming no fraud has taken place, 'limited liability' means you will not be personally liable for any financial losses made by the business. A limited company can give you added protection, should things go wrong. Because a limited company is a distinct entity from its owners, it may be a little easier for a company to secure business loans and investment. A limited company may benefit from tax advantages. You would be advised to seek professional help to make maximum use of the rules and regulations with regard to pensions, dividends and car ownership. Sole Trader A sole trader is somebody who runs their business as an individual, they are the sole owner of the business and any profit after tax is theirs. However, as a sole trader, you will be personally responsible for your company's debts, so your personal assets could be at risk. What do I do after Company Formation? Firstly, Congratulations! If you're reading this you've probably formed a company and are looking for your next steps. It's important at this point to pat yourself on the back! You've formed a business, taken a step to personal improvement and opened up a world of opportunities. From everyone at Start Up A-Z and Business Support Club, well done! What Comes Next? You'll now need to consider what your business needs to do in order to trade legally in the UK and beyond. We'll highlight a few key areas, but we strongly recommend using the following Companies House tool to work out your next steps. Consider VAT - Are you going to turn over more than £85,000? If so, you will need to register for VAT Corporation Tax - All Businesses must register for Corporation Tax within the first 3 months PAYE - Are you planning on taking on employees? If so, you'll need to register for PAYE Licenses - What licenses do you need to run your business? Insurance - It's likely that your new business will need insurance. You can find insurance brokers on Business Support Club Grants/funding - How are you going to fund your business? There may be government help if you seek it Use The Checklist We highly recommend using the Companies House checklist. It's packed with information and will tell you all you need to know about the next steps, no matter what your business. How do I set up business bank accounts? Let's get straight to it After forming a company, one of the first things most people do is apply for a business bank account. Doing so straight away as a smart move! While you can trade through director loans and using your personal account, in practice, it's always much easier to use a business bank account. Remember, a Limited company is a separate entity, it's best to operate with that in mind. What do we recommend? You have lots of options these days when it comes to business bank accounts. The high street is competing for your custom with new online rivals. We reccomend that the quickest way to get an account open is to use your personal provider, applying for a business account through them. Having said that, there are plenty of alternatives. Consider avoiding... You should know that applying to a high street bank that you do not already have a relationship with can be a long and frustrating process. Similarly, some firms, claiming to offer business bank accounts only offer limited services through a prepaid card. Many also don't like accepting international payments so it is important to know what the limitations of the bank you are applying to are. Especially if they are a neo online bank provider. The bottom line We recommend: Setting up your account ASAP Choosing a business you already know Researching the online offerings Applying for a bank account with a good promotion How do Ready Made Companies Work? Choosing to form a new business and sourcing suppliers can lead to let-downs, dead ends & delays. A Readymade Company is pre-registered, just waiting to be transferred into your name and allowing you to start trading TODAY. Is a registered office address required by law? Yes, UK limited companies are required by government bodies such as Companies House to register an address for the receipt of official communications. By subscribing to one of our plans, you can use our Manchester address as your registered office address, establishing a credible business image while keeping your personal address private. Will you receive and forward all my mail if I become a member? All our membership plans include receiving, scanning and digitally forwarding official and statutory mail. Receiving and forwarding of business mail such as invoices and supplier communications varies depending on your chosen plan. Click HERE to see more information on our membership plans. What is the difference between statutory mail and business mail? Official government mail includes post from the following UK governing bodies: • Companies House • HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) • HM Court documents (including Tribunals Services and Sheriff Court) • Office for National Statistics (ONS) • Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) • Department of Work & Pensions (DWP) • UK Government Gateway • Intellectual Property Office (IPO) • Ministry of Justice (MoJ) • The Pensions Regulator (TPR) • The Insolvency Service • UK Border Agency How can I become a member? 1. Choose the plan that best fits your business and subscribe. You will be directed to the business support club platform where you can avail of our services. Fill in the required details and choose your preferred payment method using PayPal or Stripe. 2. Once you have successfully paid, your account will be set up. We will send you a simple questionnaire to inform us of your company details and personal details. You will also be required to supply photo identification and proof of address. After completing the information needed, we will notify you that your account is set up and activated. 3. You will receive a confirmation email with the address you can use. Then, change your registered office address on Companies House HERE or through post. Statutory mail will then be received at our address and forwarded to you. For more advanced plans, business mail will also be received and forwarded to you. Alternatively, you can also subscribe to a plan by contacting us at 0330 320 1929 or sending us an email to help@suaz.co.uk. We can also gladly assist you by appointment should you prefer to visit our location at Bartle House, Manchester. Are your plans flexible? Yes, at SUAZ we make it easy to upgrade your plan by providing add-on options for any excess mail when you need it. For inquiries and requests, you can contact us at 0330 320 1929 or send us an email to help@suaz.co.uk. We can also gladly assist you by appointment should you prefer to visit our location at Bartle House, Manchester. Can I use my virtual office address as a Director Service Address? Yes, our premium plan includes one (1) use of our address for the director or officer of your company. Anyone registered as a director or officer of a UK limited company must be prepared to give a correspondence address that will be visible on the public register. To use our address as your Director Service Address, subscribe to our premium plan HERE. How can I change the Registered Office Address of my company? You can change your registered office address online or by post. You can sign into the Companies House Webfiling service HERE or submit an AD01 form by post. You must complete the change within 14 days the change took place. What IDs and documents do you require to subscribe to any membership plan? At SUAZ, we see to it that we comply to Anti-Money Laundering (AML) and ‘Know Your Customer’ requirements and regulations. We will need a proof of ID and proof of address to proceed with your application which can be as follows: Proof of ID: • Passport • Photocard driving licence • Government-issued ID card Proof of address: • Utility bill • Bank statement • Mortgage statement How long is your contract? Our contract length PLACE HERE …Please note that we do not automatically renew your contract at the end of the term. However, we will send you a renewal notice email one month before the term ends. Can the SUAZ virtual office address be used on my ‘Google My Business’ profile? We do not have services for this at the moment. However, other business directories may allow its use as your business address. Do you have a virtual receptionist to answer my business calls? As our virtual office packages currently do not include a virtual receptionist, SUAZ offers a virtual receptionist with a separate plan. You can click HERE to know more about our virtual receptionist services. Can I hold physical meetings at your location? Yes, if you have subscribed to our premium plan, you get access to our meeting room for 30 minutes per calendar month. You are also able to book meeting rooms, at a charge, with our office providers. Why do I need a Registered Office Address? UK limited companies are legally required to have a UK registered office. Our registered office service covers use of our address for official government mail only. This address cannot be used for general business correspondence, for which you must also purchase our Business Address Service (Our Virtual Business Plus package covers both official and business mail). Using a Registered Office Address has the added benefit of protecting your personal address from appearing on the public register. What is included as official mail and is mail forwarding free? Official government mail includes post from the following UK governing bodies: Companies House HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) HM Court documents (including Tribunals Services and Sheriff Court) Office for National Statistics (ONS) Information Commissioner's Office (ICO) Department of Work & Pensions (DWP) Government Gateway Intellectual Property Office (IPO) Ministry of Justice The Pensions Regulator (TPR) The Insolvency Service UK Border Agency How does the Telephone Answering Service work? We will give you a London (0203) phone number which you can either use as your own number or you can divert calls to it when you are busy. When your number is called, we answer it in your company name. We then let the caller know that the extension is busy, you are in a meeting or calls are going to voicemail (or anything else as instructed by you). We will take a message and their contact information, which are all immediately uploaded to your online admin account and sent to you by email and via the MYCO smartphone app. What's included in the Document Filing service? We can file your yearly confirmation statement directly with Companies House. It's is a legal requirement which can be done by you, or we’ll take care of it on your behalf to save you the hassle. We’ll also send ongoing reminders yearly to make sure you don’t forget. How can SUAZ offer company formations for free? Here at SUAZ, we believe that it shouldn’t cost you a fortune to follow your dream. We also know that starting a business isn’t cheap, which is why our company formation service is completely free - so you can keep your hard-earned cash to make your business the best it can be. Wondering how we make our money? Our upsells are bonus features that can help your business get a head start. We also introduce you to other businesses and sometimes earn a commission from doing so. When can your business be up and running? We try our best to get your business up and running as quickly as possible. Submissions sent before midday usually come back to us the same day, but this can’t be guaranteed as delays do happen. We try to get all applications back within 36 hours, but if there are issues with your application such as your company name being flagged for extra checks, this can delay the process. What kind of company can you set up? Here at SUAZ, we form limited companies. Operating as a limited company can give your business credibility and your customers confidence in your business. And once your company name is registered as a limited company, it's protected by law and no one else is allowed to use it. As for the industry or nature of your company, the choice is yours - all we ask is that your company has only a single director. Why should you set up a company? Setting up your own business can be life-changing. When you’re your own boss, you’ll be motivated to do the best work possible and make your work life exactly how you want it. You’ll be in charge of your work-life balance, can follow your passion and fulfil what may be your life-long dream. And while it may take a while to get your company off the ground, you’ll be working towards complete financial independence and security. With SUAZ, you’ll have all the support you need to set up your company quickly and successfully, knowing that you’ve got experts at hand. Can you set up a company on your own? You can set up a company on your own through Companies House. It costs a one-off filing fee of £12 to form your company and should all be approved, your business will usually be formed within 48 hours. Using a company formation agent like SUAZ can alleviate any stress or confusion that comes with starting a business. We can take care of everything for you and give you the support and guidance you need, so you can focus on making your business dreams a reality. What support is available after you’ve set up your company? We’re not only here during your company formation process. We’re here when you need us every step of the way, as and when you need a helping hand. Whether you have a question about your business, or have misplaced one of your documents , we’re always at the end of the line. What else do you need to start a business? What you need to get your business up and running will ultimately depend on the nature of your business. Once your company is formed, your next steps are: Checking if you need any licences or permits Making sure you have the right type of business insurance Sorting out your business’ address - if you’re looking to avoid the cost and maintenance of renting an office space, our virtual office address service may suit you Organising your business’ finances - with our Company Pro package you’ll get a Trilogy Business bank account to get you started Can you close your company down if you change your mind? It’s always a good idea not to rush into starting a business - make sure you’re both mentally and financially ready. If you have any doubts, feel free to get in touch with us and ask any questions before you jump into any decisions. But if you change your mind and decide it isn’t the right time to start your business, you’ll have the option to dissolve it - you’re only human after all! Just let us know and we can help you dissolve your company for £24.99. Can you set your UK company up from abroad? Unfortunately, our service is only being made to UK residents. As part of the formation application, you will be required to verify your identity and confirm your residence in the UK. What should you list as your company address? When starting a business, you’ll need to decide where your place of work will be. For new businesses just starting out, it can be costly and often unnecessary to rent and maintain an office space. But having a company address can help your business to establish a professional image from the get-go. If you’re looking for a company address without the cost of renting an office space, our virtual office packages could be just what you need. Virtual office gives you a mailing address right in the heart of Manchester to help you establish a professional image, and maintain your privacy too. How do I book a meeting room? Our meeting rooms are bookable online via your account admin panel under the tab titled 'Meeting Space'. This tab will only appear if you are eligible to book a meeting room. You can also reserve a meeting space on the go by downloading our ‘MYCO Meeting’ app on Android or the App store. Bookings are not official until you have received a confirmation email from us. What are the partnership perks with Business Support Club? Search our extensive marketplace to source trusted local and national product and service providers, to help get your new business off the ground. Looking for... Branding experts? Certified accountants? Legal specialists? Stationary suppliers? Printers? Domain and email hosting? Web developers? They're all on BSC... plus more! Reduce your costs Save time and effort It's free and you'll love it! Frequently Asked Questions See all FAQs Ask us a question! Contact Us help@suaz.co.uk Tel: 0330 320 1929 Bartle House, Oxford Court, Manchester M23WQ CRN: 12478555 Name Email Message Submit Thanks for submitting!

Access expert insights and guidance in Suez UK's Knowledge Base. Our articles cover a wide range of topics to help you enhance your business strategies. Article List Beginner's Guide Business Trends Company Formations Start-Up Finance Virtual Office 10 Legal Considerations When Starting a Business Understand the key legal aspects of starting a business, from business structure and registration to licences and employment laws. 5 Grants to Apply for When Starting a Business Starting a business involves paying set-up costs. Check out our top grants for starting a business and learn how to apply. A Guide to Finding a Dog-walking Business Name Discover the perfect dog walking business name with our suggestions and guide to creating a name. Stand out in the industry and attract clients effortlessly. A Guide to Starting a Cleaning Business in 2024 Starting a cleaning business is a great idea if it's in demand in your area. This guide will take you through the steps required and what you need. Read more. A Guide to Starting a Dog Walking Business in 2024 Want to succeed in the household pet industry? If you're wondering how to start a dog walking business, we've created a complete guide to get you started. A Guide to Starting a Gardening Business in 2024 Want to succeed in the gardening & landscaping industry? If you're wondering how to start a gardening business, we've created a guide to get you started. A Guide to Writing Contracts as a Freelancer Learn how to write effective freelance contracts with our comprehensive guide. Protect your work, negotiate terms, and ensure timely payments. Advantages & Disadvantages of Starting a Business Looking to break free from the 9-5? Becoming an entrepreneur can be life-changing, with the potential to secure financial independence and achieve your dream. Are dog walkers in demand? Find out where the most in-demand locations are to become a dog walker across the UK’s biggest cities and towns. Can You Start a UK Business While on Benefits? If you're choosing to start a business whilst on universal credit or some other benefit, it is important you understand the cost implications. Read more here. Changes to Companies House Fees Discover the impact of Companies House fee changes on agents & SUAZ's commitment to free company formation. Stay informed & empower your business with SUAZ. Do I need an accountant as a limited company? While there’s no legal requirement to use an accountant for a limited company, find out how a qualified accountant can reduce tax fines and risk of liability. Frequently asked questions on freelancing Read the answers to frequently asked questions freelancers have as you start up your own business. Get insights and advice to help you navigate freelancing. How Long Does It Take to Set Up a Limited Company? Starting a business is exciting, and the process doesn't have to be complicated. In this guide, you can get your company up and running quickly. How Much Does it Cost to Start a Business in the UK? Depending on the business, average start-up costs are about £5k - but can be cheaper when you know how. Find out how much it costs to start a UK business here. How much does it cost to set up a limited company? It can cost from £50 to set up a limited company, but at Start Up A-Z we cover this expense, meaning you can register a business for free with us. Learn more. How to Find Freelance Work & Respond to Enquiries Learn how to find freelance work and respond to inquiries with our comprehensive guide. Use our step by step advice to help set yourself up for success. How to Register & Form a Limited Company: A Complete Guide Thinking of registering a company in the UK? This guide will show you how easy it can be to form a limited company. How to Set Up a Virtual Office Ready to set up your own virtual office? Follow our step-by-step guide to creating a virtual office and enjoy the flexibility it offers. Read more. How to Start a Business with No Money If you're looking to start a business but have no money, keep reading here to find out how you might go about it. 12 Reasons to Start a Business Today Thousands of people set up businesses every year, each for different reasons. But what is a good reason to start a business? Explore more here. 5 Things to Consider When Starting a Business There are a large number of considerations when starting a business, from finances to time investment and unforeseen circumstances. Read more A Guide to Starting a Buy to Let Property Business Want to set up a buy to let business? Read how this can work, from researching the market, establishing budget, to setting up your own company. Learn today. A Guide to Starting a Construction Company in 2024 Want to succeed in the construction industry? If you're wondering how to start a building and construction business, we've created a guide to get you started. A Guide to Starting a Food Business in 2024 Want to succeed in the food industry? If you're wondering how to start a food business, we've created a complete guide to get you started. Read more. A Guide to Startup Loans & Business Financing While the saying ‘it takes money to make money’ may sound like a cliché, there’s no denying that starting your own business can be expensive. Advantages & Disadvantages of Limited Liability Do you think of starting your own business? Before you dive in, it's crucial to understand the legal terms and jargon associated with forming a limited company. Are Virtual Offices Legal? Confused about the legality of virtual offices? Explore SUAZ's guide to learn about the legal aspects and regulations surrounding them. Read more. Can I Register My Business at My Home Address? Using your home address as your business address has its benefits, but there are some considerations. So what's the best option? Read more. Can a Student Start a Business Whilst at University? Many students use their time at university to experiment and start a business as a way to gain income and experience (visa dependent of course) . Learn more. Companies House register drops for the first time since 2012 The Companies House register has shrunk for the first time since quarterly reporting began in 2012. Read what it means for future entrepreneurs. Do You Need a Business Bank Account to Operate? Are you debating whether a business bank account is necessary? Start Up A-Z highlights the advantages and reasons why your venture can benefit from having one. How Difficult is it to Start a Business? The process of starting a business itself is not difficult, but running a business itself involves lots of hard work, but is it worth it? Read more. How Much Does a Virtual Office Cost? Curious about the cost of a virtual office? In our latest guide, we break down the pricing factors and provide insights into virtual office costs. Read more. How do you open a retail business? Learn how to open a retail business in this step-by-step guide from the experts at Start Up A-Z. Covering everything from market research to business planning. How much professional indemnity insurance do I need? Determine the right amount of professional indemnity insurance for your needs with our practical guide. Read more to protect your business effectively. How to Quote & Charge for Freelance Work Learn to quote and charge effectively for freelance work with expert strategies. Elevate your pricing game and boost your freelance success with Start Up A-Z. How to Set Up a Freelancer Business in 2024 Discover how to kickstart your freelance career with our comprehensive guide. From setup to success, we've got you covered! How to Start a Bakery Business in the UK Learn the key steps to successfully start your bakery business. Get practical tips and insights to turn your passion into profit. Read the guide now! How to Start a Pet Shop Business: A Complete Guide Learn how to start a pet shop business in the UK with our comprehensive guide. Discover essential steps, tips, and strategies for success with SUAZ.

This is the knowledge base of Start Up A-Z wherein you can browse through our articles created to educate you into forming your company. Our Knowledge Base: How can we help you today? Popular Search: Virtual Office, Company Formation, Finance Featured Article How much does it cost to set up a limited company? It can cost from £50 to set up a limited company, but at Start Up A-Z we cover this expense, meaning you can register a business for free with us. Learn more. Read More Building Foundations for Success: Your Path to Company Formation Here at SUAZ, we believe that it shouldn’t cost you a fortune to follow your dream. We also know that starting a business isn’t cheap, which is why our company formation service is completely free - so you can keep your hard-earned cash to make your business the best it can be. Food Hotels Nightlife Family Activities Tours Hiking Load More Categories Frequently Asked Questions Why Choose Start Up A-Z? About UK Company Formation In the UK, we use the national registrar of companies, Companies House, to form new businesses. You can do this yourself, using the Companies House website found here. It costs a one-off £12 filing fee to form your company and subject to checks, your business will be formed, usually within 48 hours. Why Choose a Formation Agent? Customer Service Most Company Formation agents are here to help and advise you, as a customer you have a right to be treated with respect and understanding through, what can be, a complex and daunting process. Extra Perks You’ll be given a few freebies and introductions alongside your company formation to introduce you to businesses and products or services that can help your company thrive. Easy Process Most formation agents have perfected the process to enable Companies to be formed in as little time, and as few clicks as possible. It’s in our, and your, interests to make the process quick and concise. Why Choose Start Up A-Z? We make things simple. With Start Up A-Z, your application can take as little as two minutes. Why? Because we make some fair assumptions along the way. We know our customers aren’t big, complex companies, they are small and starting, often meaning that a lot of the information that lengthens the Companies House process is not applicable. We support. Not only do we give help and advice to you during your company formation, but also into to the future, as you need it. We and our partners are here to be the reliable foundation stone of your business. This means your calls and questions are just as welcome on day one-thousand as day one. Should I be a Limited Company or a Sole Trader? Limited Company As a limited company, you enjoy limited liability which protects your personal assets. Unlike sole traders, a limited company is legally separate from its business owner, who has limited liability. Having 'limited liability' status means the company is an entity in its own right. This has several advantages. Assuming no fraud has taken place, 'limited liability' means you will not be personally liable for any financial losses made by the business. A limited company can give you added protection, should things go wrong. Because a limited company is a distinct entity from its owners, it may be a little easier for a company to secure business loans and investment. A limited company may benefit from tax advantages. You would be advised to seek professional help to make maximum use of the rules and regulations with regard to pensions, dividends and car ownership. Sole Trader A sole trader is somebody who runs their business as an individual, they are the sole owner of the business and any profit after tax is theirs. However, as a sole trader, you will be personally responsible for your company's debts, so your personal assets could be at risk. How do I start a Limited Company? Companies House The first thing you need to know when starting a limited company is who Companies House are. Companies House are a UK government executive agency who register UK company information. This means that they are the body that incorporates, dissolves and publishes information on all UK companies. Key Responsibilities: incorporate and dissolve limited companies examine and store company information make information available to the public What is a Limited Company? Limited by shares companies are usually businesses that make a profit. This means the company: is legally separate from the people who run it has separate finances from your personal ones has shares and shareholders can keep any profits it makes after paying tax At Start Up A-Z, we only form Limited Companies, making your options as a new business extremely straightforward. We believe that a Limited company is usually the best option for those new to business and have made a concerted effort to make the process as easy as possible. Our Simple Process Choose a company name and check if it's available. We form Ltd and Limited companies. Enter your personal information so we can add you as the companies director. Your director information will be on Companies House. Enter your company information. This will also be submitted to Companies House and be available online. Review your application and make sure everything is correct. We'll submit your application to Companies House and your company will be formed. Should I be a Limited Company or a Sole Trader? Limited Company As a limited company, you enjoy limited liability which protects your personal assets. Unlike sole traders, a limited company is legally separate from its business owner, who has limited liability. Having 'limited liability' status means the company is an entity in its own right. This has several advantages. Assuming no fraud has taken place, 'limited liability' means you will not be personally liable for any financial losses made by the business. A limited company can give you added protection, should things go wrong. Because a limited company is a distinct entity from its owners, it may be a little easier for a company to secure business loans and investment. A limited company may benefit from tax advantages. You would be advised to seek professional help to make maximum use of the rules and regulations with regard to pensions, dividends and car ownership. Sole Trader A sole trader is somebody who runs their business as an individual, they are the sole owner of the business and any profit after tax is theirs. However, as a sole trader, you will be personally responsible for your company's debts, so your personal assets could be at risk. What do I do after Company Formation? Firstly, Congratulations! If you're reading this you've probably formed a company and are looking for your next steps. It's important at this point to pat yourself on the back! You've formed a business, taken a step to personal improvement and opened up a world of opportunities. From everyone at Start Up A-Z and Business Support Club, well done! What Comes Next? You'll now need to consider what your business needs to do in order to trade legally in the UK and beyond. We'll highlight a few key areas, but we strongly recommend using the following Companies House tool to work out your next steps. Consider VAT - Are you going to turn over more than £85,000? If so, you will need to register for VAT Corporation Tax - All Businesses must register for Corporation Tax within the first 3 months PAYE - Are you planning on taking on employees? If so, you'll need to register for PAYE Licenses - What licenses do you need to run your business? Insurance - It's likely that your new business will need insurance. You can find insurance brokers on Business Support Club Grants/funding - How are you going to fund your business? There may be government help if you seek it Use The Checklist We highly recommend using the Companies House checklist. It's packed with information and will tell you all you need to know about the next steps, no matter what your business. How do I set up business bank accounts? Let's get straight to it After forming a company, one of the first things most people do is apply for a business bank account. Doing so straight away as a smart move! While you can trade through director loans and using your personal account, in practice, it's always much easier to use a business bank account. Remember, a Limited company is a separate entity, it's best to operate with that in mind. What do we recommend? You have lots of options these days when it comes to business bank accounts. The high street is competing for your custom with new online rivals. We reccomend that the quickest way to get an account open is to use your personal provider, applying for a business account through them. Having said that, there are plenty of alternatives. Consider avoiding... You should know that applying to a high street bank that you do not already have a relationship with can be a long and frustrating process. Similarly, some firms, claiming to offer business bank accounts only offer limited services through a prepaid card. Many also don't like accepting international payments so it is important to know what the limitations of the bank you are applying to are. Especially if they are a neo online bank provider. The bottom line We recommend: Setting up your account ASAP Choosing a business you already know Researching the online offerings Applying for a bank account with a good promotion How do Ready Made Companies Work? Choosing to form a new business and sourcing suppliers can lead to let-downs, dead ends & delays. A Readymade Company is pre-registered, just waiting to be transferred into your name and allowing you to start trading TODAY. Is a registered office address required by law? Yes, UK limited companies are required by government bodies such as Companies House to register an address for the receipt of official communications. By subscribing to one of our plans, you can use our Manchester address as your registered office address, establishing a credible business image while keeping your personal address private. Will you receive and forward all my mail if I become a member? All our membership plans include receiving, scanning and digitally forwarding official and statutory mail. Receiving and forwarding of business mail such as invoices and supplier communications varies depending on your chosen plan. Click HERE to see more information on our membership plans. What is the difference between statutory mail and business mail? Official government mail includes post from the following UK governing bodies: • Companies House • HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) • HM Court documents (including Tribunals Services and Sheriff Court) • Office for National Statistics (ONS) • Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) • Department of Work & Pensions (DWP) • UK Government Gateway • Intellectual Property Office (IPO) • Ministry of Justice (MoJ) • The Pensions Regulator (TPR) • The Insolvency Service • UK Border Agency How can I become a member? 1. Choose the plan that best fits your business and subscribe. You will be directed to the business support club platform where you can avail of our services. Fill in the required details and choose your preferred payment method using PayPal or Stripe. 2. Once you have successfully paid, your account will be set up. We will send you a simple questionnaire to inform us of your company details and personal details. You will also be required to supply photo identification and proof of address. After completing the information needed, we will notify you that your account is set up and activated. 3. You will receive a confirmation email with the address you can use. Then, change your registered office address on Companies House HERE or through post. Statutory mail will then be received at our address and forwarded to you. For more advanced plans, business mail will also be received and forwarded to you. Alternatively, you can also subscribe to a plan by contacting us at 0330 320 1929 or sending us an email to help@suaz.co.uk. We can also gladly assist you by appointment should you prefer to visit our location at Bartle House, Manchester. Are your plans flexible? Yes, at SUAZ we make it easy to upgrade your plan by providing add-on options for any excess mail when you need it. For inquiries and requests, you can contact us at 0330 320 1929 or send us an email to help@suaz.co.uk. We can also gladly assist you by appointment should you prefer to visit our location at Bartle House, Manchester. Can I use my virtual office address as a Director Service Address? Yes, our premium plan includes one (1) use of our address for the director or officer of your company. Anyone registered as a director or officer of a UK limited company must be prepared to give a correspondence address that will be visible on the public register. To use our address as your Director Service Address, subscribe to our premium plan HERE. How can I change the Registered Office Address of my company? You can change your registered office address online or by post. You can sign into the Companies House Webfiling service HERE or submit an AD01 form by post. You must complete the change within 14 days the change took place. What IDs and documents do you require to subscribe to any membership plan? At SUAZ, we see to it that we comply to Anti-Money Laundering (AML) and ‘Know Your Customer’ requirements and regulations. We will need a proof of ID and proof of address to proceed with your application which can be as follows: Proof of ID: • Passport • Photocard driving licence • Government-issued ID card Proof of address: • Utility bill • Bank statement • Mortgage statement How long is your contract? Our contract length PLACE HERE …Please note that we do not automatically renew your contract at the end of the term. However, we will send you a renewal notice email one month before the term ends. Can the SUAZ virtual office address be used on my ‘Google My Business’ profile? We do not have services for this at the moment. However, other business directories may allow its use as your business address. Do you have a virtual receptionist to answer my business calls? As our virtual office packages currently do not include a virtual receptionist, SUAZ offers a virtual receptionist with a separate plan. You can click HERE to know more about our virtual receptionist services. Can I hold physical meetings at your location? Yes, if you have subscribed to our premium plan, you get access to our meeting room for 30 minutes per calendar month. You are also able to book meeting rooms, at a charge, with our office providers. Why do I need a Registered Office Address? UK limited companies are legally required to have a UK registered office. Our registered office service covers use of our address for official government mail only. This address cannot be used for general business correspondence, for which you must also purchase our Business Address Service (Our Virtual Business Plus package covers both official and business mail). Using a Registered Office Address has the added benefit of protecting your personal address from appearing on the public register. What is included as official mail and is mail forwarding free? Official government mail includes post from the following UK governing bodies: Companies House HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) HM Court documents (including Tribunals Services and Sheriff Court) Office for National Statistics (ONS) Information Commissioner's Office (ICO) Department of Work & Pensions (DWP) Government Gateway Intellectual Property Office (IPO) Ministry of Justice The Pensions Regulator (TPR) The Insolvency Service UK Border Agency How does the Telephone Answering Service work? We will give you a London (0203) phone number which you can either use as your own number or you can divert calls to it when you are busy. When your number is called, we answer it in your company name. We then let the caller know that the extension is busy, you are in a meeting or calls are going to voicemail (or anything else as instructed by you). We will take a message and their contact information, which are all immediately uploaded to your online admin account and sent to you by email and via the MYCO smartphone app. What's included in the Document Filing service? We can file your yearly confirmation statement directly with Companies House. It's is a legal requirement which can be done by you, or we’ll take care of it on your behalf to save you the hassle. We’ll also send ongoing reminders yearly to make sure you don’t forget. How can SUAZ offer company formations for free? Here at SUAZ, we believe that it shouldn’t cost you a fortune to follow your dream. We also know that starting a business isn’t cheap, which is why our company formation service is completely free - so you can keep your hard-earned cash to make your business the best it can be. Wondering how we make our money? Our upsells are bonus features that can help your business get a head start. We also introduce you to other businesses and sometimes earn a commission from doing so. When can your business be up and running? We try our best to get your business up and running as quickly as possible. Submissions sent before midday usually come back to us the same day, but this can’t be guaranteed as delays do happen. We try to get all applications back within 36 hours, but if there are issues with your application such as your company name being flagged for extra checks, this can delay the process. What kind of company can you set up? Here at SUAZ, we form limited companies. Operating as a limited company can give your business credibility and your customers confidence in your business. And once your company name is registered as a limited company, it's protected by law and no one else is allowed to use it. As for the industry or nature of your company, the choice is yours - all we ask is that your company has only a single director. Why should you set up a company? Setting up your own business can be life-changing. When you’re your own boss, you’ll be motivated to do the best work possible and make your work life exactly how you want it. You’ll be in charge of your work-life balance, can follow your passion and fulfil what may be your life-long dream. And while it may take a while to get your company off the ground, you’ll be working towards complete financial independence and security. With SUAZ, you’ll have all the support you need to set up your company quickly and successfully, knowing that you’ve got experts at hand. Can you set up a company on your own? You can set up a company on your own through Companies House. It costs a one-off filing fee of £12 to form your company and should all be approved, your business will usually be formed within 48 hours. Using a company formation agent like SUAZ can alleviate any stress or confusion that comes with starting a business. We can take care of everything for you and give you the support and guidance you need, so you can focus on making your business dreams a reality. What support is available after you’ve set up your company? We’re not only here during your company formation process. We’re here when you need us every step of the way, as and when you need a helping hand. Whether you have a question about your business, or have misplaced one of your documents , we’re always at the end of the line. What else do you need to start a business? What you need to get your business up and running will ultimately depend on the nature of your business. Once your company is formed, your next steps are: Checking if you need any licences or permits Making sure you have the right type of business insurance Sorting out your business’ address - if you’re looking to avoid the cost and maintenance of renting an office space, our virtual office address service may suit you Organising your business’ finances - with our Company Pro package you’ll get a Trilogy Business bank account to get you started Can you close your company down if you change your mind? It’s always a good idea not to rush into starting a business - make sure you’re both mentally and financially ready. If you have any doubts, feel free to get in touch with us and ask any questions before you jump into any decisions. But if you change your mind and decide it isn’t the right time to start your business, you’ll have the option to dissolve it - you’re only human after all! Just let us know and we can help you dissolve your company for £24.99. Can you set your UK company up from abroad? Unfortunately, our service is only being made to UK residents. As part of the formation application, you will be required to verify your identity and confirm your residence in the UK. What should you list as your company address? When starting a business, you’ll need to decide where your place of work will be. For new businesses just starting out, it can be costly and often unnecessary to rent and maintain an office space. But having a company address can help your business to establish a professional image from the get-go. If you’re looking for a company address without the cost of renting an office space, our virtual office packages could be just what you need. Virtual office gives you a mailing address right in the heart of Manchester to help you establish a professional image, and maintain your privacy too. How do I book a meeting room? Our meeting rooms are bookable online via your account admin panel under the tab titled 'Meeting Space'. This tab will only appear if you are eligible to book a meeting room. You can also reserve a meeting space on the go by downloading our ‘MYCO Meeting’ app on Android or the App store. Bookings are not official until you have received a confirmation email from us. What are the partnership perks with Business Support Club? Search our extensive marketplace to source trusted local and national product and service providers, to help get your new business off the ground. Looking for... Branding experts? Certified accountants? Legal specialists? Stationary suppliers? Printers? Domain and email hosting? Web developers? They're all on BSC... plus more! Reduce your costs Save time and effort It's free and you'll love it! Faqs Can't find an answer? Contact Us! help@suaz.co.uk Tel: 0330 320 1929 Bartle House, Oxford Court, Manchester M23WQ CRN: 12478555 Name Email Message Submit Thanks for submitting! Contact Us

Want to set up a buy to let business? Read how this can work, from researching the market, establishing budget, to setting up your own company. Learn today. A Guide to Starting a Buy to Let Property Business 12 min read Beginner's Guide Table of Contents Categories Are you ready to start a buy to let business? The buy to let property landscape in 2024 How much money do you need to start a property business? Steps to starting a property business Begin with market research and analysis Business planning Legal considerations and company formation Creating a financing strategy Understanding buy-to-let strategies Traditional buy-to-let HMOs Holiday lets BRRR How SUAZ can help you Beginner's Guide Business Trends Company Formations Start-Up Finance Virtual Office Caught the entrepreneurial bug? If starting a property or buy to let business is calling your name, there’s no better time to bring your business idea to life. Real estate is a thriving industry in the UK, generating a turnover of over £65 billion in 2022 , so you’ve certainly picked a popular sector to be a part of. Starting your own business can be life-changing - there’s no feeling quite like being your own boss! But you may experience trials and tribulations along the way as you navigate entrepreneurship. With the right preparation, you’ll know exactly how to handle these challenges and learn from them along the way. Our guide will cover exactly how to start a buy-to-let business in the UK, including the current property landscape in the UK and how to approach your buy to let business plan. We’ll also explain just how easy it is to form your company through SUAZ, to take some weight off your shoulders as you begin your new venture. Are you ready to start a buy to let business? Starting a property business is a major life decision, so it’s important you assess your readiness before diving straight in. Starting your own company requires a lot of commitment and dedication, which you’ll need to make sure you have the time for. You’ll need to wrap your head around the business jargon and regulations that may apply to your buy to let business, and make sure you’re both emotionally and financially prepared for your new venture. To confirm whether you’re ready to start your business, you’ll need to make sure you have the passion and commitment, the funds to get things going and a comprehensive buy to let business plan that outlines your business goals, financial projections and objectives. As long as you’re prepared and have the drive to succeed, there’s no reason why you aren’t ready to start a buy to let limited company. We believe you have what it takes. The buy to let property landscape in 2024 The UK’s property market has seen significant change in recent years, particularly due to economic factors such as the cost of living crisis, which has impacted mortgage rates and house prices. If you’re looking to start a buy to let business, you’ll be pleased to know that the housing market is certainly picking up following a period of decline. With house prices falling at their fastest rate in 13 years in November 2023, and a recent dip in mortgage rates, it’s predicted that the market could recover considerably this year. Overall buyer demand is up by 6% , after many movers held off from buying while they waited for the market to improve. Mortgage rates are slowly dropping, with five-year fixed rates for those remortgaging coming in below 4% as lenders compete against each other. For those purchasing a new home, the cheapest fixed rate available as of January 2024 is a five-year fixed rate of 3.92% . According to data from Moneyfacts, pricing is now at a seven-month low which is good news for buyers who have been holding off moving or buying their first home. Luke Meadows, Executive Mortgage Consultant at Mortgage Link Limited says; “In a bid to tackle inflation, we saw the Bank of England increase their base rate 14 times in 2 years. In recent months we have started to see more stability in rates as inflation improves but mortgages are still significantly more expensive than they were just a couple of years ago. During Covid, I secured a 5 year fixed for clients sub 1%. These deals are now typically 4%+ and rose to 6% at times last year. “The general consensus is that we are now through the worst and things will remain a lot more stable until rates are expected to slowly start reducing from the end of 2024. I have already seen a positive increase in the number of enquiries I am getting from homeowners looking to sell and upsize and this is expected to continue. I sometimes think the uncertainty is worse than the higher rates at times and now people feel this is maybe as expensive as it may get, they have the confidence to revisit those plans to move.” Other considerations as a potential property business owner are trends in the property market, such as a focus on energy efficiency and sustainability. Buyers seem to be more focused on the energy efficiency of a property over the charm of period properties, with 67% of landlords noticing less interest in period properties compared to a decade ago. This is likely due to the rising costs of running older properties, and the cost of energy bills which have prompted buyers to look for more cost-effective, energy-efficient homes. It may be worth keeping these considerations in mind when starting your property business, so you know you’re appealing to the needs of your potential customers or buyers. How much money do you need to start a property business? How much money you’ll need to kickstart your property business will depend on your unique, financial circumstances. It’ll also depend on the type of property you’re looking to buy, and if you need to cover other costs such as stamp duty. If you’re looking to buy a property to rent out, known as buy-to-let, you’ll need to consider the upfront costs of this business venture, and any ongoing costs you’ll need to cover once you’ve purchased your property. Buy-to-let mortgages work similarly to other types of mortgages, but the fees and interest rates tend to be higher. It’s likely you’ll need a deposit of at least 25% of the property’s value. You’ll then need to keep up with your mortgage repayments, but hopefully the rental income from your property will cover this. Other costs to keep in mind include: Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT): How much stamp duty you’ll need to pay will depend on the property’s price. For properties £40,000 and below, you won’t pay any stamp duty. Those priced up to £250,000 have a 3% buy-to-let stamp duty rate, properties priced between £250,001-£925,000 have a rate of 8% and if you’re buying a property priced between £925,0001-£1.5m, you’ll pay 13%. Looking to purchase a property of £1.5m and above? You’ll pay 15% buy-to-let stamp duty. If you’re a first-time buyer, you won’t need to pay stamp duty for properties up to £425,000. This limit will remain in place until March 2025, when it’s due to change to £300,000. Legal fees: You’ll need to pay your solicitor to take care of the legal side of purchasing a property. How much these fees cost varies, so be sure to check this beforehand. Ongoing costs: These are costs you’ll need to cover regularly once you’ve purchased a property, including mortgage repayments, service charges and management fees if you’d rather someone else, such as a letting agent, take care of managing your property. Letting agents will charge you the cost of advertising the property, conducting viewings and handling admin, for example. How much you can expect to pay will depend on the services you require. For a let-only service, where the letting agent will simply find tenants for your property, you’re looking at them receiving 50-80% of the first month’s rent on average . Whereas, if you need full property management, the letting agent is likely to charge 12-15% of your tenant’s monthly rent. It’s recommended that you have a starting budget of £50,000 to get your property business off the ground, but this of course depends on your unique, financial circumstances. Steps to starting a property business Ready to embark on your exciting new chapter? Starting a property business could be the life-changing experience you’ve been looking for. Here are the steps you’ll need to take to get started. Read our study on the most profitable locations for a buy-to-let property business . Begin with market research and analysis Getting to know the market you’re looking to operate in is a key first step when starting a property business. Market research gives you insight into current trends and demands in the property market, so you know how to appeal to your customers. You’ll understand the demographics and preferences of your potential buyers or tenants, and how to differentiate yourself and your property from other property businesses. Business planning Creating a comprehensive business plan is a vital part of starting your business. Your business plan is a written document outlining your business’ plans and how you’ll achieve them. It will cover your business’ strategy, financial projections, goals and what success will look like for your business. For your buy-to-let business plan , you’ll need to cover the money you have to invest, the skills and knowledge you can apply to your business and the time you’ll have to invest each week or month for your business. If you’re looking to apply for a business loan, your bank will ask to see your business plan to know what you’re planning to use the borrowed funds for. Take a look at our guide to writing a business plan for more details. Legal considerations and company formation Make sure you understand the legal considerations of starting a property business. The first step is to form your company, which you can either do yourself through Companies House which costs £50, or you can let a company formation agent take care of things for you. Here at SUAZ, we can form your company with Companies House on your behalf, completely free of charge (yes, really!). What’s more, should you need any support or advice, we’re always at hand to answer any questions. Make sure you read up on and understand building regulations and which apply to your business. Building regulations are legal requirements that ensure the health and safety of those who live, work or use buildings. As a property owner, landlord or property management company, you’re legally required to ensure your property is safe for occupants and visitors. The government’s website explains the regulations around renting out your property . Creating a financing strategy How you choose to finance your business is up to you and what you can afford. You may have the money available outright to cover your startup costs, or you may need to rely on one of the following financing options to get your business up and running: Business loans: You can apply for a business loan through a bank and will need to repay the amount through regular repayments. How much you can borrow will usually depend on your credit history. Once you’re approved, you’ll receive the money and you’ll start making repayments, including interest, over a set term such as three years, for example. Partnerships: A business partnership means forming a business with another person. Rather than taking on your business’ responsibilities alone, they’ll be shared. Both of you will contribute financially to getting the business running, and you’ll both be liable for the business’ debts. Crowdfunding: This is where a ‘crowd’ funds a project, such as your property business. To raise the money you need, you’ll need to encourage investors to contribute to your business. There are different types of crowdfunding for you to consider including donation-based funding where your contributors will give money without receiving anything in return. With equity funding, investors will receive shares of your business in exchange for their contribution. Take a look at our guide to startup loans and business financing for more details. Understanding buy-to-let strategies If you’re looking to start a buy-to-let business, you’ll need to get your head around and decide on the different buy-to-let strategies. The buy-to-let strategy you choose will depend on your financial circumstances, business goals and the time you have to dedicate to your new venture. Here are the different types of buy-to-let for you to consider: Traditional buy-to-let As you may assume, a traditional buy-to-let involves you buying a property to rent out to tenants. The rent you charge should cover the mortgage payments and any other expenses, so you come out with a profit each month. HMOs Houses in multiple occupation, known as HMOs, are properties shared by multiple tenants from different families. Your property would be considered an HMO if at least three tenants live there forming more than one household, and if the toilet, bathroom and kitchen facilities are shared with other tenants. Holiday lets Holiday lets are focused on short-term renting throughout the year. If you’re looking to start a holiday rental company, it’s important to choose the right location and property which attracts holidaymakers to ensure you’re making a consistent profit. There are various regulations you must adhere to should you run a holiday let business. Your property must be available for commercial holiday letting for at least 210 days per year, and must be actively promoted and let commercially with the intention of making a profit. The government’s furnished holiday lettings guidance explains this in greater detail. BRRR Buy, refurbish, refinance, rent (BRRR) involves you buying a low-value property that needs work, refurbishing it to increase its value and then refinancing it. Once the property has increased value, you can use the money you put in to invest in another property. This is a popular buy-to-let strategy as it requires low initial capital to get started and allows you to grow your property portfolio fairly quickly. How SUAZ can help you Starting a property business can be life changing. Say goodbye to your regular 9-5 and embrace the world of entrepreneurship today with SUAZ. Our expert company formation service can take care of the hard work for you, so you can focus on the important stuff like your exciting next chapter. Form your company with SUAZ today. Recommended Readings

If you're choosing to start a business whilst on universal credit or some other benefit, it is important you understand the cost implications. Read more here. Can You Start a UK Business While on Benefits? 10 min read Beginner's Guide Table of Contents Categories An overview of starting a business on benefits Understanding Universal Credit and self-employment Legal and financial considerations Legal implications Financial planning Practical steps for starting a business on benefits Research and planning Utilising support services To conclude… Beginner's Guide Business Trends Company Formations Start-Up Finance Virtual Office While your financial circumstances shouldn’t stop you from chasing your dreams, it’s understandable if you’ve asked ‘can I start a business while on benefits?’ After all, funding your business is an important step in your business journey and you may question if you can become a business owner while on Universal Credit. But your financial circumstances shouldn’t stop you from achieving your life goals. If you’re looking for support to get you started on your business journey, look no further than SUAZ. We’re a free company formations provider , who’d love to help you on your road to success. Below, we’ll answer ‘can you start a business on Universal Credit?’. We’ll also cover the key considerations of becoming a business owner while on benefits so you’re fully prepared for your next chapter. An overview of starting a business on benefits Knowing where to start a business can feel tricky, regardless of your financial circumstances. But if you’re claiming Universal Credit or other benefits, you may feel concerned about where to begin, or question if it’s possible to start a business in your situation. You’ll be pleased to hear, however, that the government encourages those claiming benefits to start or run their own businesses, and even offers support to get started. If you’re looking for support when starting your business, the government offers free advice through their Business Support Helpline . From writing your business plan , to navigating business tax, there are experts at hand to guide you in the right direction. Understanding Universal Credit and self-employment Usually, when you’re self-employed and claiming Universal Credit, you’re treated as if you are earning a certain amount - known as the ‘minimum income floor’. This is the amount of money an employed person in similar circumstances to you would earn on the National Living Wage or National Minimum Wage, once tax and National Insurance have been deducted. Should you earn more than this amount in any month, your actual earnings will be looked at instead to determine your Universal Credit payment . But as a new business owner, you may be entitled to a 12-month ‘ start-up period .’ This means the minimum income floor won’t apply to you for the first 12 months, to give you the opportunity to grow your business. This means that regardless of your income as a new business owner, your Universal Credit payments are based on your actual monthly earnings. During this time, you won’t need to look for other work and you’ll also receive support from a Jobcentre Plus work coach. You’ll find out if you’re eligible for a start-up period at your self-employed interview. Legal and financial considerations Before you get started on your business to-do list, you must get to grips with the legal and financial considerations of starting a business while on benefits . Legal implications If you claim benefits, you’ll need to bear in mind how your business may affect your benefit entitlement. If your business is registered as a limited company and you claim Universal Credit, the limited company structure will be ignored if you have a trade or property business and your position works similarly to a sole trader. In simple terms, directors of their own companies are often treated as self-employed when it comes to Universal Credit. When it comes to claiming Universal Credit as a business owner, you’ll need to demonstrate that your self-employment is your main source of income. This includes having proof that you get regular work from self-employment, your work is organised (you have invoices and receipts, or accounts) and that you expect to make a profit. To do this, you’ll need to give your work coach evidence of your tax returns, accounts and any business plan, your Unique Taxpayer Reference (UTR) if you’re registered for Self Assessment, your marketing materials and your customer and supplier lists. Once you’ve shown all of these items, you’ll be seen as ‘gainfully self-employed’ and won’t need to look for other work. This means you can focus on growing your new business. You’ll need to report the following at the end of each monthly assessment period: How much you’ve earned that month from self-employment, even if it’s nothing Any money you’ve paid into a pension The payments going into and out of your business If you forget to report your earnings on time and don’t have a good reason why you missed the deadline, the Department for Work and Pensions will usually stop your Universal Credit claim until you report your earnings to them. Financial planning You'll also want to consider the other costs of starting a business , it’s important to remember that if your earnings change each month as a new business owner, your Universal Credit payments will do the same. This can make it difficult to stick to a monthly budget, especially if you don’t know how much you’ll take home each month. Remember - if you’re gainfully self-employed, your UC payment is likely to be calculated using a minimum income floor. But if you earn more than this from your self-employment income, your UC amount will be calculated based on your actual earnings. To help you manage your finances month-to-month, you may look to pay your income tax and National Insurance monthly rather than annually. This is known as a budget payment plan and works like a monthly direct debit. You’ll get to choose how much you pay each and how often, to help you keep on top of your finances. This could alleviate financial worries as you’ll know how much money you have left to work with each month once your bills are taken care of. Take a look at the government’s Self Assessment payment information for more details. Practical steps for starting a business on benefits We’ve covered the legal and financial implications of starting a business on benefits, but how do you get started? Below, we’ve put together some practical steps for starting a business while receiving Universal Credit or other benefits. Research and planning Like most things in life, research and planning is key to achieving your goals and shaping success. Not only does researching your business’ target market help you connect with potential customers, it can also give you a competitive edge in your industry by creating something new and distinctive compared to your competitors. Thorough research is also key to risk mitigation. By planning ahead, you can minimise the chances of unexpected issues threatening your business’ success. When it comes to your business finances, a detailed financial plan is vital for long-term stability. Above all, spending time researching your business will pay off long-term, ensuring you have a plan in place to combat potential threats and improve your chances of growth and success. You'll likely want to create a business plan. Read our guide to writing a business plan for more information. Utilising support services Starting your own business could be life-changing, but taking that first step towards entrepreneurship can feel daunting, especially if you’re concerned about your financial circumstances. When starting a business on benefits, it’s important to remember that help and support are out there. Reaching out for support could streamline your business journey and take some weight off your shoulders. Be sure to ask your Jobcentre Plus work coach for information about local organisations who may be able to support you in your business endeavours. And when it comes to the company formation process, SUAZ can take care of the complicated stuff for you. We can register your company directly with Companies House, completely free of charge. What’s more, we’re at hand whenever you need us to answer any questions you may have about company formation, and getting started in the business world. To conclude… As long as you plan ahead and brush up on your knowledge of regulations and legal implications, there’s no reason why claiming benefits should stop you from achieving your business goals. Entrepreneurship could be the first step towards financial independence and self-discovery. Starting a business could be the fresh start you’ve been looking for - what’s stopping you from stepping into those big boss shoes? Here at SUAZ, we’d love to help you make your business dreams a reality. We believe you have what it takes to turn your business idea into a successful enterprise. Form your company for free with SUAZ today . Recommended Readings

Explore what it takes to be a FTSE 100 CEO, understanding the experience needed, length of service at the company and number of internal promotions required on average. What it takes to be a FTSE CEO 8 min read Business Trends Table of Contents Categories Who are the FTSE CEOs? How much experience do you need to have to be a FTSE CEO? How many roles does it take to become CEO? Are you rewarded for length of service? Beginner's Guide Business Trends Company Formations Start-Up Finance Virtual Office Becoming the CEO of a company takes grit, determination and experience. For those starting a business , you may want to look up to successful CEOs for guidance and understanding on what it takes. After all, learning from those who have already reached the top can offer valuable insight. And where better to start than the FTSE 100 CEOs? We’ve pulled together research on the 100 CEOs in the FTSE to find out key trends such as the average length of service at the company, total years of experience, average number of roles before becoming CEO, as well as company loyalty to reveal what it really takes to lead from the highest level. Stand out stats Who are the FTSE CEOs? The FTSE 100 is made up of the biggest 100 companies in the UK, spanning industries from finance and tech to retail and travel, and all spearheaded by CEOs who are resonsible for steering strategic direction and long-term growth. Companies include Auto Trader Group, Coca Cola, Easy Jet and Marks & Spencer to name a few. Of the 100, just 10 are led by female CEOs , highlighting the ongoing gender gap at the executive level. The companies with female CEOs include Admiral Group, Aviva Plc, BT Group plc, Diageo plc, Entain plc, F&C Investment Trust plc, GSK plc, Severn Trent PLC, Taylor Wimpey plc and United Utilities Group Plc. The average age of FTSE CEOs is 56 , with the youngest being Nathan Coe (47), CEO of Auto Trader and the oldest Ian Cockerill (70), CEO of Endeavour Mining. This suggests that the FTSE 100 companies clearly value experience, but with younger, tech-savvy leaders emerging all around the world, how long before we see this average start to drop? How much experience do you need to have to be a FTSE CEO? We wanted to understand the full range of experience top leaders have. Therefore, where the information was publicly available, we researched the total number of years of career experience each FTSE 100 CEO had accumulated, to the point they were appointed as CEO of their current firm. Our analysis revealed that the average FTSE 100 CEO is a highly seasoned professional, boasting an impressive 31 years of career experience before taking the top spot. Notably, 23 CEOs fall within the 31-35 year experience bracket, highlighting just how much time it typically takes to reach the top. However, as with any average, there are some outliers. We found that two leaders have under 10 years of experience; George Weston of Associated British Foods stepped into the CEO position with 10 years of prior experience, while Frank van Zanten of Bunzl took the helm with just 9 years under his belt, proving that, in some cases, swift rises to the top do happen. How many roles does it take to become CEO? It's a common thought that loyalty should be rewarded, especially in the corporate world. But does this hold true at the very top? We wanted to understand just how much internal dedication and climbing the corporate ladder actually contribute to being a CEO. To explore this, we dived into finding out the number of internal roles each FTSE 100 CEO held before taking the helm of their current company. Our data shows 29 out of the 100 current FTSE CEOs were appointed directly into the chief executive role, without having occupied any prior positions within that specific company. This suggests that for nearly a third of the UK's top firms, the search for leadership talent extends beyond internal candidates, often favouring external expertise and a fresh perspective. Number of roles within the company No. of FTSE CEOs 1 29 2 24 3 8 4 6 5 1 6 3 7 1 8 1 9 1 10 0 11 1 12-25 2 Are you rewarded for length of service? Beyond just the number of internal positions held, we dug into how long FTSE 100 CEOs have actually been with their current firms. Does a lengthy tenure genuinely lead to the top job, or is it more about rapid ascent? Our findings paint an interesting picture: a significant chunk of top executives are relatively new to their corner offices. 30 CEOs have been with their companies for five years or less . This suggests that reaching the pinnacle doesn't necessarily require decades of loyal service, and in many cases, fresh perspectives and external experience are seen as valuable assets at the executive level. Yet, the other end of the spectrum shows that loyalty can indeed be rewarded, epitomised by Fernando Fernandez, CEO of Unilever PLC , who stands out with an incredible 37 years at the company. Length of time at company (years) No. of FTSE CEOs 0-5 30 6-10 24 11-15 8 16-20 5 21-25 1 26-30 4 31-35 4 36-40 2 41-45 0 46-50 0 The path to FTSE 100: Does one size fit all? Our research reveals that while experience, loyalty and progression within a company are common amongst the FTSE 100 CEOs, there is no single formula for reaching the top. Whereas some CEOs bring decades of industry experience, others arrive from outside the company and have relatively short tenures before stepping into the leadership role. This diversity highlights that the journey to becoming a CEO is varied, and for aspiring leaders, the key to reaching the top is clear - develop broad experience, stay adaptable and be open to different pathways. As the business landscape evolves, with younger, tech-savvy talent emerging globally, it will be interesting to see how these trends shift and shape the CEOs of tomorrow. Methodology Using LinkedIn, we collected data from FTSE 100 CEO profile pages. Where needed, years of service were rounded to the nearest whole year. We collected data using all publicly available information - in some instances, some gaps may exist where certain details were unavailable due to inconsistencies, such as profiles not being updated. Any FTSE 100 CEOs without LinkedIn profiles were removed from specific data gathering. Recommended Readings

Discover how to launch a successful dog accessory business in 2024. Expert tips and strategies for entrepreneurs. Start your journey with Start Up A-Z. Starting a Dog Accessory & Clothing Business in 2024 12 min read Beginner's Guide Table of Contents Categories Is the pet accessory industry really for you? Steps to Start a Dog Accessory Business 1. Conduct market research and analysis How big is the dog clothing industry? 2. Create a solid business plan 3. Understanding your finances How much does it cost to start a dog clothing business? 4. Selecting and developing your products 5. Begin planning your brand 6. Set up your sales channels 7. Curate a marketing strategy 8. Ensure you’ve considered legal and regulatory guidance Start your dog accessory business with Start Up A-Z Beginner's Guide Business Trends Company Formations Start-Up Finance Virtual Office There’s no denying that a lot of pet owners would be willing to spend a fortune for their four-legged, furry friends. In fact, the pet industry in the UK is experiencing remarkable growth, with pet owners spending approximately £8 billion annually on their beloved companions. This huge spending just shows how much we care about our pets – they're family. With around 13.5 million dogs in the UK and a growing trend towards premium pet products , there surely is a huge market for dog accessories and clothing. And as more and more people want the best for their pets, it seems like a thriving industry to be a part of. Wondering how to start a dog accessory business in the UK? In this blog, we’ll explore essential topics such as conducting market research, developing high-quality products, creating a brand, and implementing successful marketing tactics. When done right, launching a dog accessories business isn’t just profitable but also fulfilling as you cater to the needs of pet lovers eager to pamper their furry friends. Is the pet accessory industry really for you? Starting a pet accessory business can be super rewarding, especially if you’re a fur parent at best. You can create stylish products that dog owners love, and you could make a good living doing it. But like any business, building a thriving enterprise takes a lot of hard work - you'll need to find reliable suppliers, compete with big brands, and keep up with the latest trends. If you're passionate about pets and ready to take on a challenge, this business could be the perfect fit for you. Steps to start a dog accessory business Conduct market research and analysis To successfully navigate this market, it’s important to initially research your target audience and analyse their behaviour. Identify who your ideal customers are by looking into factors such as age, income level, and lifestyle choices as these are likely to affect what they’re looking for in a dog store. Tools like surveys and focus groups can also provide you with valuable insights into what pet owners prioritise when purchasing accessories and clothing. If you’re really serious, you might also consider using helpful resources and tools. Industry reports from sources like Statista can give you comprehensive data on market size and growth trends. Competitor analysis tools such as SEMrush or SimilarWeb can help you understand how other pet brands are performing online, while consumer survey platforms like SurveyMonkey or Google Forms can gather direct feedback from your potential customers. By understanding the current market, you’re set to make business decisions that align with market demands and consumer preferences, ultimately positioning your dog accessory business for success in this thriving industry. How big is the dog clothing industry? The dog clothing industry is part of a rapidly growing pet clothing market in the world. On average, Brits spend nearly £200 a year on clothes for their pets ! Globally, the industry was valued at approximately 6 billion dollars in 2023 , and is expected to grow to 9 billion by 2031. Pet owners fondly love to dress their furry companions up for fun, keep them warm, or even just show off their unique style. From cosy sweaters to fancy costumes, UK dog owners are embracing the trend and splashing out on adorable outfits for their furry friends. Create a solid business plan Next, you’ll need a business plan to guide your whole venture. It’s like a roadmap to help you navigate the ins and outs of your business journey and can help you figure out what you want to do, how you’ll do it and why it’s a good idea, giving you solid plans for the future. Your business plan is also crucial for securing funding from investors or lenders to show your business is on its road to success.If you’re new to creating one, we’ve created a guide on how to write a business plan you can easily follow. Understanding your finances While thinking about the money side of things may leave you feeling overwhelmed, the sooner you plan and understand your finances, the better position your business will be in. You’ll need to consider capital and operating costs such as company formation, legal fees, licences and permits, rent, website and domain, marketing and branding, inventory, packaging, employee salaries, and insurance, to name a few. Startup A-Z offers free company formation for starting your business, so you have one less thing to pay for.. According to pet accessories and business founders, it may cause you between USD 1,000 to USD 150,000 , an average of USD 15,000, as starting costs for your pet accessory business. That’s approximately £11,500 to start. While this might not be cheap, these costs can vary widely depending on the scale of your business and its location. How much does it cost to start a dog clothing business? Starterstory’s data from actual dog clothing businesses costs from USD 500 to USD 27,000 , or approximately £385 to £20,800. While this may still vary depending on your market, this data can give you an estimate of the costs to start. Selecting and developing your products Your core offerings can make or break your business. Consider being innovative, unique and trendy so fur parents can rave about your business. You might offer hypoallergenic and natural products or eco-friendly products for conscious individuals, for example. Here’s a list of products you could consider for your new business: Collars and leashes: Standard collars, harnesses, reflective collars, training leashes, retractable leashes. Toys: Chew toys, interactive toys, plush toys, fetch toys. Grooming supplies: Brushes, shampoos, nail clippers, grooming gloves. Apparel: Jackets, sweaters, costumes, raincoats. Feeding accessories: Elevated feeders, spill-proof bowls, travel bowls. Travel accessories: Car seat covers, travel crates, portable water bottles. If you’re planning to import products from other countries, there are EU regulations and standards for pet toys and accessories to consider too. Begin planning your brand If you want to make your dog accessory or clothing stand out in a saturated market, you’ll need to create a brand. It helps you be remembered in a crowded market, build trust with your customers, and increase the perceived value of your products. A strong brand involves creating a unique identity, telling a compelling story, and designing a memorable logo. By understanding your target audience, using social media effectively, and learning from successful brands, you can establish a strong brand presence that resonates with pet owners and drives business growth. Mungo & Maud , a pet and accessory store based in London, is known for stylish dog accessories, high-quality materials and chic designs that appeal to fashion-conscious pet owners. Their branding emphasises luxury and sophistication. And just like Mungo & Maud, you can focus on connecting emotionally with customers while maintaining consistency across all branding elements, to build loyalty and recognition over time. Set up your sales channels Selling pet stuff requires a multi-pronged approach. E-commerce platforms like your own website, Amazon, eBay, and Etsy offer diverse avenues to reach pet owners. You might also explore brick-and-mortar stores, consignment agreements, and pop-up shops for in-person sales. When setting up your online store, it’s nice to choose a user-friendly platform like Shopify, Wix, or WooCommerce, and prioritise a mobile-friendly design. Make sure that you use high-quality images and competitive pricing for your product listings. You might also consider shipping strategies, whether local or international, as you might be including free shipping thresholds and international shipping options. As fur parents are increasingly mindful of the products they buy for their pets, it’s also important to prioritise customer service. Ensure prompt responses, clear policies, and loyalty programs when building your channels online. Curate a marketing strategy To get the word out about your dog accessory business, you can use a variety of marketing strategies. Social media is a great way to show off your products and connect with pet owners. Teddy Maximus, known for its luxury pet accessories, uses a high-quality gallery with dogs in their carriers to appeal to its customer base. Photo: Instagram / @teddy_maximus Partnering with pet influencers can also help you reach a wider audience, just like Carter chow chow and its owner Carl , flaunting their cute matching fits on their social media platforms. Photo: Instagram / @carterchowchow Posting high-quality photos and videos can definitely help you stand out, and hosting events like pop-up shops or community gatherings can be a fun way to connect with people. You can also encourage your customers to share photos of their pets using your products. Ensure you’ve considered legal and regulatory guidance Starting a dog accessory business in the UK also involves some legal and regulatory hoops to jump through. You'll need to register your business, pay taxes, and make sure your products are safe. This includes labelling them correctly and testing them to meet safety standards. Company registration: You must register your business with Companies House if you are registering as a limited company. Taxes: As a business owner, you are responsible for paying taxes, including Income Tax (for sole traders) or Corporation Tax (for limited companies). You must also register for VAT if your taxable turnover exceeds the VAT threshold (currently £95,000) Product Safety Standards: All products sold must comply with UK safety standards, which include the General Product Safety Regulations 2005 . This ensures that your products are safe for consumers and their pets. Product label: Labels should comply with the Consumer Rights Act 2015, which mandates that products must be of satisfactory quality and fit for purpose. Testing and Certification: Depending on the type of dog accessories you sell (such as toys or grooming products), specific testing may be required to ensure they meet safety standards. The government website , the British Standards Institution , and Trading Standards are great resources for information on legal and regulatory requirements. By staying compliant, you can protect your business and ensure a positive experience for your customers. Pet licences last only for a year, so you’d have to renew every year. Start your dog accessory business with Start Up A-Z The UK's love for pets is unconditional, making today an ideal time to start a dog accessories business. To succeed, you'll need a solid plan, innovative products, and effective marketing. From stylish collars to cosy sweaters, there's a huge market for innovative and high-quality products. So, if you're passionate about pets and ready to turn your hobby into a profitable business, you can register your company for free today with SUAZ. Recommended Readings

Learn efficient ways to track and manage freelance projects with our comprehensive guide. Stay organised and productive for success in the freelance sector. How to track & manage freelance work 12 min read Beginner's Guide Table of Contents Categories Why tracking work in the freelance sector matters How to keep track of freelance income How to manage freelance expenses and deductions How to set up freelance work for tracking A guide to freelance time tracking Common challenges and solutions when learning how to set up freelance work and track it Ready to turn your freelancing dreams into a structured business? Beginner's Guide Business Trends Company Formations Start-Up Finance Virtual Office Freelancing is definitely on the rise. As of March 2024, there are roughly 7.4 million freelancers registered and operating in the UK, contributing over £270 billion to the UK economy every year. That's a lot of people juggling projects, clients, and invoices. As one of them, or at least planning to be, you know that freedom, potential, and flexibility come with a price – organisation. This guide will equip you with the essential skills and tools to track and manage your freelance work effectively. From your first client enquiry to the final payment, we'll cover everything you need to stay organised, efficient, and profitable. Let’s get into it. Why tracking work in the freelance sector matters As a freelancer, you're essentially a one-person company responsible for every aspect of your business – from securing clients to managing finances. And just like any successful company, you need robust systems to thrive. Effective tracking is crucial, especially as your business grows. It provides valuable data and insights that empower you to make informed decisions and avoid common pitfalls that can derail a freelance career. Statistics show 82% of businesses fail due to poor cash flow management. Other major contributing factors include: Ineffective time management Undercharging for services Inadequate financial planning Insufficient tax and emergency funds Poor expense management By implementing a comprehensive tracking system, you can: Gain an understanding of your financial health: Track income, expenses, and profitability to make informed business decisions. Optimise your time: Identify time-wasting activities and streamline your workflow for maximum efficiency. Price your services strategically: Analyse project data to ensure you're charging appropriately and maximising your earning potential. Improve your processes: Spot inefficiencies in your workflow and implement changes for better results. Reduce stress: Avoid missed deadlines, forgotten invoices, and financial anxieties by staying organised and in control. Ultimately, using systems to track your work allows you to work smarter, not harder, and build a thriving freelance business. When your systems handle the heavy lifting, you can focus on what truly matters: delivering exceptional work and building a thriving freelance career. How to keep track of freelance income First, we’ll explain how to keep track of freelance income. Juggling client payments, chasing invoices, and staying on top of your income can feel overwhelming. But there are simple and effective ways to track your freelance income, no matter your experience level. Starting simple When you're starting the journey of how to keep track of your freelance income, a basic spreadsheet or even a notebook can do the trick. You can then keep track of: Payment dates: When did you receive each payment? Client names: Who paid you? Project details: What was the payment for? Amount received: How much did you earn? This method provides a solid foundation, but as your business grows, you'll likely need a more robust solution. Using accounting software Consider using dedicated accounting software to streamline your financial management. Many options connect directly with your bank account, automatically tag income and expenses, calculate taxes, and offer valuable financial insights. A few popular choices include: QuickBooks Self-Employed: An all-in-one tool for tracking income and expenses, sending invoices, and estimating quarterly taxes. FreshBooks: User-friendly invoicing and accounting software designed specifically for freelancers and small businesses. Wave Accounting: A fantastic free option with basic invoicing and accounting features, ideal for those on a tight budget. By implementing a reliable system for tracking your income, you can gain a clear picture of your financial health, simplify tax season, and focus on what you do best: delivering exceptional freelance work. Categorise your income No matter how you track your income, categorisation is key. For example, let's say you're a freelance graphic designer offering a range of services: Logo design Custom graphics Illustrations Infographics By tagging each income source by service type, you can analyse which services are most profitable. Perhaps logo design generates 90% of your income and offers the best return on your time investment. This insight might lead you to niche down and focus solely on logo design. You can also categorise income by project type, client, or even payment method. This granular data can encourage you to make informed decisions about your services and pricing strategies. Consistency is crucial The key to successful financial management isn't just the system you use but your consistency in using it. That’s the trick regarding how to keep track of freelance income. Avoid getting caught in the trap of constantly switching between apps and templates. Find a system that works well for you and commit to it. Adapt your workflow to fit the system, and stick with it consistently. Building a consistent workflow takes time. Establish a routine for tracking your income and expenses, whether daily, weekly, or monthly. The most important thing is to be consistent and make it a habit. How to manage freelance expenses and deductions Income is crucial, but so is tracking what you’re spending and where the money comes out. This not only maximises tax deductions and keeps everything accurate and legal, but also provides valuable insights into your spending habits. Whether you prefer a spreadsheet or accounting software, the principle remains the same: record every expense. Note the date, amount, vendor, and a brief description. This meticulous tracking is crucial for two reasons: Tax deductions: Many business expenses are tax-deductible, reducing your tax liability and increasing your take-home pay. Financial awareness: Regularly reviewing your expenses helps identify areas where you can cut back and improve profitability. Tips for organised expense tracking Keep all receipts: Whether paper or digital, store them securely in a dedicated folder or app. Categorise expenses: Group similar expenses into categories like office supplies, software subscriptions, travel, and professional development. This simplifies tax preparation and analysis. Use expense tracking tools: Accounting software often automates expense tracking by connecting directly to your bank account. Separate business and personal finances: Use a dedicated business bank account to separate your business transactions from your personal spending. By diligently tracking and categorising your expenses, you can minimise your tax burden, gain a clear understanding of your spending patterns, and boost your overall profitability. Other top tips for keeping track of freelance finances Managing your freelance finances doesn't have to be a burden. Here are some expert tips to help you stay in control of your money: Set a budget (and stick to it!): A budget is essential for tracking income and expenses, preventing overspending, and making informed financial decisions. Start by listing all income sources and fixed expenses, then allocate funds for variable expenses like marketing or travel. Avoid impulse purchases and use your budget to guide investment decisions. Use accounting software: Streamline your financial management with accounting software. These tools automate tasks like income and expense tracking, invoicing, and tax estimation, saving you time and effort. Set money aside for taxes: As a freelancer, you're responsible for paying your own taxes. Set aside 25-30% of each payment to cover your tax liability and avoid a hefty bill come tax season. Plan for irregular pay and downtime: Freelancing often involves income fluctuations. Prepare for lean periods by building an emergency fund or setting aside extra income during busy months. Keep personal and business finances separate: Open a dedicated bank account for your freelance business to maintain clear financial records and avoid complications with HMRC. By implementing these tips, you can confidently manage your freelance finances, optimise your earnings, and achieve financial stability. How to set up freelance work for tracking You probably have an idea of who your clients are and what work you’re doing for them, but as you scale your business, develop your skills, and onboard more work and more complex pipelines, this system becomes obsolete almost instantly. Tracking your work, projects, clients, and tasks is crucial in this way. It clears your mind so you can focus on the important aspects of the time at hand, keeps you in control, and prevents stress, burnout, and other things that can damage your business. You’ll also get a ton of data you can use to make informed decision-making within your business. Like which work brings in the most money. Which client is most profitable. Which market is most lucrative and better suited to your skills. How to set up your freelance work and track it efficiently starts with how you set up your freelance projects. By implementing these strategies from the outset, you can streamline your workflow, improve project management, and gather valuable data for your business. Define crystal-clear project scopes Before starting any project, establish a clear scope of work. This includes outlining: Project goals: What are you aiming to achieve? Deliverables: What specific outputs will you provide? Timelines: What are the key deadlines and milestones? Payment terms: How and when will you be paid? A well-defined scope prevents scope creep (unplanned additions to the project that you should really be charging for) and ensures you and your client are on the same page. Break projects into milestones Large projects can feel overwhelming. Break them down into smaller, more manageable milestones. This not only makes the project less daunting but also allows for better progress tracking and a sense of accomplishment along the way. Set deadlines (and stick to them) Deadlines are crucial for accountability and timely project completion. Be realistic when setting deadlines, factoring in potential delays or unexpected issues. Once set, do your best to adhere to them. Leverage project management tools Numerous project management tools can help you stay organised and on top of your work. Consider these options: Trello: A visual tool using boards, lists, and cards to organise and prioritise tasks. Asana: A robust tool with features like Gantt charts and timelines for managing complex projects. Monday.com : A versatile platform for managing projects, workflows, and teamwork. Sunsama: A tool for planning your day, week, or month by integrating calendars and to-do lists. Akiflow: A powerful task management tool with features like time blocking and automated scheduling. Google Calendar: A simple and accessible tool for scheduling appointments, deadlines, and reminders. The key is to choose a tool that fits your workflow and use it consistently. Adapt your processes to the tool's functionalities for optimal results. There’s no “golden” tool that will care for everything and make life easy. That comes from picking a tool and then sticking with it, building up a system with that tool that works for you, not the other way around. A guide to freelance time tracking The most important thing you have to manage as a freelancer is your time, and developing a freelance time tracking system from the very beginning can bring so many benefits. Here’s an example: You charge £150 for a blog post. But what if it takes 5 hours to write, with another 4 hours lost to distractions? Your actual hourly rate plummets to £30. Now, imagine completing that same post in one focused hour time block. Suddenly, you're earning £150 per hour, with extra time to invest in other projects or personal pursuits. Freelance time tracking isn't about working yourself to the bone, grinding all the time, and burning out. You do become a productivity machine, but in the sense that your work time is used wisely. Your most valuable resource is used optimally and without waste. It's about understanding where your time goes so you can make conscious choices about how to spend it, how much to charge , and, ultimately, how to run your business more effectively. How to track freelance hours There are several ways to track your time: Manual freelance time tracking: Use a spreadsheet, notebook, or a simple timer to track your work hours. Techniques like the Pomodoro Technique, with its focused work intervals, can be particularly helpful. Digital time tracking tools: Many apps offer features like project-specific tracking, reporting, and integration with other platforms. Some popular options include: Toggl Track: User-friendly time tracking across projects and clients. Harvest: A robust solution with invoicing and expense-tracking capabilities. Some project management tools can teach and help you learn how to track freelance hours with ease, but often within their premium subscriptions. These tools provide detailed dashboards to visualise how you spend your time across days, weeks, months, or even the entire year. Top tips for keeping track of freelance time Regularly review your time logs: Take some time each week or month to review your time logs. This will help you identify patterns or areas where you can improve your time management. Identify time drains: Are there specific tasks or activities that consistently take up more time than you anticipated? Once you identify these time drains, you can take steps to eliminate or minimise them. Set realistic time estimates: When estimating project timelines, be realistic about how long tasks will actually take. It's always better to overestimate than underestimate. Try time blocking: This time management technique involves scheduling specific blocks of time for different tasks or projects. It can help you stay focused and avoid distractions. Use the Pomodoro technique: This technique involves working in 25-minute intervals with short breaks in between. It can be a great way to boost your productivity and avoid burnout. Prioritise high-value tasks: Not all tasks are created equal. Focus on prioritising the tasks that will impact your business most. So, when it comes to learning how to track freelance hours effectively, a bit of a proactive mindset can go a long way. Common challenges and solutions when learning how to set up freelance work and track it Even with the best intentions, tracking your freelance business can present challenges. But don't be discouraged. By understanding these common obstacles and their solutions, you can develop strategies to overcome them and build a more successful freelance career. Inconsistent time tracking Challenge: It's easy to lose track of time when engrossed in a project or juggling multiple tasks. Inaccurate time tracking can lead to underbilling and lost revenue. Solution: Use automated time tracking tools or set reminders to log your hours regularly. This ensures accurate billing and fair compensation for your work. Managing multiple projects simultaneously Challenge: Juggling multiple projects with varying deadlines and deliverables can be overwhelming, potentially leading to missed tasks and increased stress. Solution: Use project management tools like Asana or Trello to organise and prioritise tasks. Break down large projects into smaller, manageable steps with clear deadlines. Create separate boards or lists for each project to maintain organisation. Regularly review and adjust your schedule to ensure balanced time allocation across projects. Difficulty in invoicing and payment tracking Challenge: Creating, sending, and following up on invoices can be time-consuming and frustrating. Late payments can disrupt your cash flow and create financial instability. Solution: Establish a consistent invoicing schedule and promptly follow up on overdue payments. Consider using invoicing software to automate the process and simplify payment tracking. Clearly outline payment terms in your contracts or project agreements to avoid misunderstandings. By proactively addressing these common challenges, you can streamline your tracking processes, maintain organisation, and ensure you're fairly compensated for your valuable time and effort. Ready to turn your freelancing dreams into a structured business? Start Up A-Z is here to guide you through every step of your journey – from forming your company to landing your first client. Our comprehensive support system includes business planning tools, proven tracking methods, and ongoing guidance from founders who've walked the same path. Don't just start a business. Build a sustainable freelance career with the right foundation. Form your company with SUAZ today . Recommended Readings

Choose our privacy package for a quick company formation with a Manchester central virtual office address and business landline number to keep your privacy. Privacy Package Quick company formation with added privacy and prestige Choose our privacy package to enjoy the benefits of quick company formation with a Manchester central virtual office address and business landline number keeping your address and mobile private. About this package £ 14 .99 +VAT Buy now Consider this if... When you register a new business, you’ll need to give a registered office address which is available online for all the world to see. Choose this package to use our prestigious address instead. Also, get a business telephone number that forwards incoming calls to your mobile, so customers see a business, not a person. What's Included Limited company formation Companies House filing fee (£50) included in the price Standard memorandum & company articles Priority Formation Digital documents pack Help & support by phone or online Business Support Club Account Business Landline number Manchester Virtual office address Key Features Priority formation No hidden fees Digital documents Professional assistance No paperwork Privacy Prestige Know more about the inclusions Company Formation Company Formations Digital Documents Pack Help and Support Help and Support BSC Account BSC Virtual Office Address Business Landline Or... you can go with Privacy Plus! You want your new business to be professionally registered for taxes, including PAYE, VAT and Corporation Tax. Read more Additionally, you will get: VAT registration PAYE registration Corporation tax registration Printed and framed certificate of incorporation

Starting a business involves paying set-up costs. Check out our top grants for starting a business and learn how to apply. 5 Grants to Apply for When Starting a Business 15 min read Start-Up Finance Table of Contents Categories Our top five business grants for new businesses Small business and start-up grants Resource grants Circumstance-specific grants Regional grants Tax relief grants Application tips Research the awarding body Be clear in your goals Why apply for a grant? Grants vs Loans Loan Grant Keep applying Get our expert guidance on starting a small business Beginner's Guide Business Trends Company Formations Start-Up Finance Virtual Office So you’re thinking of starting a business! Grants can be a great way to fund those early days, but finding and applying for the right business grant is a challenge if you aren’t sure what to look for. We’ve put together an easy-to-read guide on grants to start a business, so you can get the funding you need without the hassle. Our top five business grants for new businesses There are loads of grants out there, each with different goals. These can range from helping underrepresented people become business owners to supporting new scientific or technological developments. Let’s take a look, shall we? Small business and start-up grants Start-up or small business grants aim to help out fledgling businesses to stimulate the economy and help keep independent businesses thriving. There are different grants for different types of business so make sure you do some research to see which is right for your new business. UnLtd awards for Social Entrepreneurs This grant offers funding (up to £8,000) and support to help new businesses committed to creating social impact in a financially sustainable way. Trading For Good A project delivered by the School for Social Entrepreneurs with support from Power to Change that offers training, support and grants for community businesses. Innovate UK Business Growth Innovate UK offers a range of grants and resources for UK businesses. This programme offers funded, expert support to help grow new or scaling businesses. The King’s Trust Enterprise Programme grants This programme offers multiple resources for new businesses, including Start Up grants of up to £5,000 and Test My Business Idea grants of up to £500 for concept-stage start-ups. Resource grants Some grants offer accessible resources as well as or instead of a cash sum. Resource grants might include discounts on equipment and training. The King’s Trust Enterprise Programme This programme offers a free four-day business course teaching budgeting, cashflow, book-keeping and tax, after which you can apply for a two-year business mentorship. Hatch Enterprise programmes Hatch Enterprise offers free or discounted business programmes for underrepresented entrepreneurs starting, growing or scaling their business. Made Smarter Adoption programme This programme offers a match-funded grant of up to £20,000 for equipment, advice and training to help businesses in the East of England improve their operations. Circumstance-specific grants Many grants have very specific goals and only award funding to businesses that meet particular criteria. For example, some grants are only awarded to women and young entrepreneurs, or businesses that are carbon neutral. Women in Innovation Award This Innovate UK award aims to encourage entrepreneurship and innovation by offering funding to women who are at a critical stage with their business. Hatch Enterprise grants Graduates of Hatch Enterprise’s Launchpad, Incubator or Accelerator business programmes can apply for grants up to £1k, £5k or £15k respectively. The Ashden Awards An award offering businesses with outstanding sustainability solutions up to £20,000 and the chance to attend the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change. Regional grants There may be regional grants available where your business is based. Have a look at the grants available in different parts of the UK. Some regions have lots of funding available to stimulate their economy and boost local business. Flexible Social Finance fund This fund offers community businesses across the North East of England access to support and flexible repayable finance. Commercial vehicle grant A grant of up to £180,000 to help small businesses operating in Birmingham’s Clean Air Zone upgrade their vehicles to meet Birmingham's Clean Air Zone emission standards. Net Zero Worcestershire This project offers up to £100,000 for energy efficiency projects. The grant is match-funded and requires the business to cover 25-50% of the project costs. Tax relief grants There are a range of government-run schemes that aim to help out businesses, some of which can provide tax relief and help a business reduce the amount of tax it needs to pay. Research and Development tax relief Research and Development (R&D) tax relief offers cash payments and Corporation Tax reduction to businesses making useful advances in science, mathematics or technology. Seed Enterprise Investment Scheme This scheme helps small or early-stage businesses secure funding by offering investors income tax reductions of up to 50% on their investment in a new business. Application tips After you’ve decided on a grant, the next step is applying! Grants are often pretty competitive, so getting funding will take more than just meeting the grant’s eligibility criteria. Here are some tips on how to put together an excellent grant application and win that funding. Research the awarding body Research, research, research! Every grant works differently, and understanding how they work will give you the best chance to find the right grant for you, impress the funding committee, and avoid unpleasant surprises. Here are some questions to ask before applying for grants: What region does the grant cover? Is your business in that region? Is the grant offered by the government, a nonprofit organisation or a company? What kind of business is the grant looking for? What does your business need to do to be eligible for the grant? How much funding is available? How will the funding be allocated? Is the grant match-funded? Be clear in your goals Funding committees have to go through hundreds of grant applications, so make sure yours is well-written and organised. You want the person reading your application to be able to see at a glance everything they need to know. Top tips Avoid using long words and sentences unnecessarily to try and look smart. The judges won’t be fooled! Instead, impress them with clear, concise writing. Check and recheck the grant’s goals and specifications! The more relevant your application is to the grant you’re applying for, the more likely you’ll get it. Start early — applications usually take longer than you think, so start early to make sure you have time to put together a great application and apply as soon as the application opens. Here’s an idea of how your application should look: Introduce your business, your project, how much funding you need, and how you’ll use it. Set out your grant proposal, explaining clearly and thoroughly how your business or project meets the grant criteria. Summarise your grant proposal. Give a more in-depth look into your business, including how you started your business, your mission and goals, and any notable, relevant achievements by you or your business. Explain in detail the goals of your project and why it's important — how will your project benefit the world outside of your business, such as the local community, the economy or the environment? Write a business plan and include your budget and any other useful data. Your business plan and budget should be thorough and detailed. Think about where every pound is going! Use all of this information to prove that this project is valuable, and that you need this grant to be successful. Show that your project will get the most out of this grant! Why apply for a grant? From rent and advertising to staff and furniture, starting a business can be a strain on the purse. Applying for a grant can help with these initial costs. There are a few ways to manage costs when starting a new business. If you have savings or a large income, you might be able to pay for a new business out of pocket. Look at your finances and draw up a solid business plan to get an idea of how much you have, and how much you’ll need. You could borrow from friends and family. Just make sure that they have enough to lend, and you will be able to repay it — lending money can put strain on close relationships, so approach with consideration and communication! You could also take out a business loan. Grants vs Loans So what’s the difference between a grant and a loan, and which is right for you? Loan A loan is money you borrow and repay later with interest. You can apply for loans from banks and online lenders. We can help you learn if taking out a loan is right for you. Grant You don’t have to pay grants back at all — however, you might have to spend it according to grant specifications. Grants might come as a cash prize, or a reimbursement or price match to your own spending. Be sure to read up on how a grant works before you apply. Keep applying If you can’t find the right grant for your business right now, or your application wasn’t chosen, don’t give up! There are always new grants being created and applications opening up, so make sure to keep checking so you can get your applications in and increase the chance of getting funding for your business. Have a look at the eligibility needs for different grants. Did you just miss out on funding because of something that you could change relatively easily? Or is it worth rethinking certain areas of your business? You can search the wide selection of grants available across the UK using these support and funding finders: UK business finance and support Welsh Government grants guidance Enterprise Ireland funding and grants Scottish business funding or advice Get our expert guidance on starting a small business We understand how difficult it can be to get a new business off the ground. You have an idea you want to see in the world, and it can be frustrating to jump through all the hoops to get there. From planning permission, rent agreements and licensing to technical, financial and staffing issues — trust us, we get it. At Start Up A-Z we offer clear, personalised guidance from friendly experts to help you navigate the early stages of starting a business. Get started today with our company formations packages — let’s make your vision a reality! Recommended Readings

Suaz respects your privacy! Learn about data collection, manage choices & how we use it for personalization. Explore Policy & understand your data rights! PRIVACY NOTICE Last updated January 04, 2023 This privacy notice for SKILLSERVE TECH LTD (doing business as Start Up A-Z ) ('Start Up A-Z ', 'we', 'us', or 'our'), describes how and why we might collect, store, use, and/or share ('process') your information when you use our services ('Services'), such as when you: Visit our website at https://www.suaz.co.uk , or any website of ours that links to this privacy notice Engage with us in other related ways, including any sales, marketing, or events Questions or concerns? Reading this privacy notice will help you understand your privacy rights and choices. If you do not agree with our policies and practices, please do not use our Services. If you still have any questions or concerns, please contact us at help@suaz.co.uk . SUMMARY OF KEY POINTS This summary provides key points from our privacy notice, but you can find out more details about any of these topics by clicking the link following each key point or by using our table of contents below to find the section you are looking for. You can also click here to go directly to our table of contents. What personal information do we process? When you visit, use, or navigate our Services, we may process personal information depending on how you interact with Start Up A-Z and the Services, the choices you make, and the products and features you use. Click here to learn more. Do we process any sensitive personal information? We do not process sensitive personal information. Do we receive any information from third parties? We do not receive any information from third parties. How do we process your information? We process your information to provide, improve, and administer our Services, communicate with you, for security and fraud prevention, and to comply with law. We may also process your information for other purposes with your consent. We process your information only when we have a valid legal reason to do so. Click here to learn more. In what situations and with which types of parties do we share personal information? We may share information in specific situations and with specific categories of third parties. Click here to learn more. How do we keep your information safe? We have organisational and technical processes and procedures in place to protect your personal information. However, no electronic transmission over the internet or information storage technology can be guaranteed to be 100% secure, so we cannot promise or guarantee that hackers, cybercriminals, or other unauthorised third parties will not be able to defeat our security and improperly collect, access, steal, or modify your information. Click here to learn more. What are your rights? Depending on where you are located geographically, the applicable privacy law may mean you have certain rights regarding your personal information. Click here to learn more. How do you exercise your rights? The easiest way to exercise your rights is by filling out our data subject request form available here, or by contacting us. We will consider and act upon any request in accordance with applicable data protection laws. Want to learn more about what Start Up A-Z does with any information we collect? Click here to review the notice in full. TABLE OF CONTENTS 1. WHAT INFORMATION DO WE COLLECT? 2. HOW DO WE PROCESS YOUR INFORMATION? 3. WHAT LEGAL BASES DO WE RELY ON TO PROCESS YOUR PERSONAL INFORMATION? 4. WHEN AND WITH WHOM DO WE SHARE YOUR PERSONAL INFORMATION? 5. DO WE USE COOKIES AND OTHER TRACKING TECHNOLOGIES? 6. HOW LONG DO WE KEEP YOUR INFORMATION? 7. HOW DO WE KEEP YOUR INFORMATION SAFE? 8. DO WE COLLECT INFORMATION FROM MINORS? 9. WHAT ARE YOUR PRIVACY RIGHTS? 10. CONTROLS FOR DO-NOT-TRACK FEATURES 11. DO CALIFORNIA RESIDENTS HAVE SPECIFIC PRIVACY RIGHTS? 12. DO WE MAKE UPDATES TO THIS NOTICE? 13. HOW CAN YOU CONTACT US ABOUT THIS NOTICE? 14. HOW CAN YOU REVIEW, UPDATE, OR DELETE THE DATA WE COLLECT FROM YOU? 1. WHAT INFORMATION DO WE COLLECT? Personal information you disclose to us In Short: We collect personal information that you provide to us. We collect personal information that you voluntarily provide to us when you express an interest in obtaining information about us or our products and Services, when you participate in activities on the Services, or otherwise when you contact us. Personal Information Provided by You. The personal information that we collect depends on the context of your interactions with us and the Services, the choices you make, and the products and features you use. The personal information we collect may include the following: contact preferences contact or authentication data email addresses names Sensitive Information. We do not process sensitive information. All personal information that you provide to us must be true, complete, and accurate, and you must notify us of any changes to such personal information. Information automatically collected In Short: Some information — such as your Internet Protocol (IP) address and/or browser and device characteristics — is collected automatically when you visit our Services. We automatically collect certain information when you visit, use, or navigate the Services. This information does not reveal your specific identity (like your name or contact information) but may include device and usage information, such as your IP address, browser and device characteristics, operating system, language preferences, referring URLs, device name, country, location, information about how and when you use our Services, and other technical information. This information is primarily needed to maintain the security and operation of our Services, and for our internal analytics and reporting purposes. Like many businesses, we also collect information through cookies and similar technologies. You can find out more about this in our Cookie Notice: https://app.termly.io/document/cookie-policy/0aafeee2-66a4-40b2-9b13-fda9377dfe78 . The information we collect includes: Log and Usage Data. Log and usage data is service-related, diagnostic, usage, and performance information our servers automatically collect when you access or use our Services and which we record in log files. Depending on how you interact with us, this log data may include your IP address, device information, browser type, and settings and information about your activity in the Services (such as the date/time stamps associated with your usage, pages and files viewed, searches, and other actions you take such as which features you use), device event information (such as system activity, error reports (sometimes called 'crash dumps'), and hardware settings). Device Data. We collect device data such as information about your computer, phone, tablet, or other device you use to access the Services. Depending on the device used, this device data may include information such as your IP address (or proxy server), device and application identification numbers, location, browser type, hardware model, Internet service provider and/or mobile carrier, operating system, and system configuration information. Location Data. We collect location data such as information about your device's location, which can be either precise or imprecise. How much information we collect depends on the type and settings of the device you use to access the Services. For example, we may use GPS and other technologies to collect geolocation data that tells us your current location (based on your IP address). You can opt out of allowing us to collect this information either by refusing access to the information or by disabling your Location setting on your device. However, if you choose to opt out, you may not be able to use certain aspects of the Services. 2. HOW DO WE PROCESS YOUR INFORMATION? In Short: We process your information to provide, improve, and administer our Services, communicate with you, for security and fraud prevention, and to comply with law. We may also process your information for other purposes with your consent. We process your personal information for a variety of reasons, depending on how you interact with our Services, including: To deliver and facilitate delivery of services to the user. We may process your information to provide you with the requested service. To respond to user inquiries/offer support to users. We may process your information to respond to your inquiries and solve any potential issues you might have with the requested service. To send administrative information to you. We may process your information to send you details about our products and services, changes to our terms and policies, and other similar information. To fulfil and manage your orders. We may process your information to fulfil and manage your orders, payments, returns, and exchanges made through the Services. To request feedback. We may process your information when necessary to request feedback and to contact you about your use of our Services. To send you marketing and promotional communications. We may process the personal information you send to us for our marketing purposes, if this is in accordance with your marketing preferences. You can opt out of our marketing emails at any time. For more information, see 'WHAT ARE YOUR PRIVACY RIGHTS? ' below). To protect our Services. We may process your information as part of our efforts to keep our Services safe and secure, including fraud monitoring and prevention. To determine the effectiveness of our marketing and promotional campaigns. We may process your information to better understand how to provide marketing and promotional campaigns that are most relevant to you. To save or protect an individual's vital interest. We may process your information when necessary to save or protect an individual’s vital interest, such as to prevent harm. 3. WHAT LEGAL BASES DO WE RELY ON TO PROCESS YOUR INFORMATION? In Short: We only process your personal information when we believe it is necessary and we have a valid legal reason (i.e. legal basis) to do so under applicable law, like with your consent, to comply with laws, to provide you with services to enter into or fulfil our contractual obligations, to protect your rights, or to fulfil our legitimate business interests. The General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and UK GDPR require us to explain the valid legal bases we rely on in order to process your personal information. As such, we may rely on the following legal bases to process your personal information: Consent. We may process your information if you have given us permission (i.e. consent) to use your personal information for a specific purpose. You can withdraw your consent at any time. Click here to learn more. Performance of a Contract. We may process your personal information when we believe it is necessary to fulfil our contractual obligations to you, including providing our Services or at your request prior to entering into a contract with you. Legitimate Interests. We may process your information when we believe it is reasonably necessary to achieve our legitimate business interests and those interests do not outweigh your interests and fundamental rights and freedoms. For example, we may process your personal information for some of the purposes described in order to: Send users information about special offers and discounts on our products and services Support our marketing activities Diagnose problems and/or prevent fraudulent activities Understand how our users use our products and services so we can improve user experience Legal Obligations. We may process your information where we believe it is necessary for compliance with our legal obligations, such as to cooperate with a law enforcement body or regulatory agency, exercise or defend our legal rights, or disclose your information as evidence in litigation in which we are involved. Vital Interests. We may process your information where we believe it is necessary to protect your vital interests or the vital interests of a third party, such as situations involving potential threats to the safety of any person. In legal terms, we are generally the 'data controller' under European data protection laws of the personal information described in this privacy notice, since we determine the means and/or purposes of the data processing we perform. This privacy notice does not apply to the personal information we process as a 'data processor' on behalf of our customers. In those situations, the customer that we provide services to and with whom we have entered into a data processing agreement is the 'data controller' responsible for your personal information, and we merely process your information on their behalf in accordance with your instructions. If you want to know more about our customers' privacy practices, you should read their privacy policies and direct any questions you have to them. 4. WHEN AND WITH WHOM DO WE SHARE YOUR PERSONAL INFORMATION? In Short: We may share information in specific situations described in this section and/or with the following categories of third parties. Vendors, Consultants, and Other Third-Party Service Providers. We may share your data with third-party vendors, service providers, contractors, or agents ('third parties') who perform services for us or on our behalf and require access to such information to do that work. We have contracts in place with our third parties, which are designed to help safeguard your personal information. This means that they cannot do anything with your personal information unless we have instructed them to do it. They will also not share your personal information with any organisation apart from us. They also commit to protect the data they hold on our behalf and to retain it for the period we instruct. The categories of third parties we may share personal information with are as follows: Ad Networks Data Analytics Services Data Storage Service Providers Government Entities Order Fulfilment Service Providers Payment Processors Testing Tools User Account Registration & Authentication Services We also may need to share your personal information in the following situations: Business Transfers. We may share or transfer your information in connection with, or during negotiations of, any merger, sale of company assets, financing, or acquisition of all or a portion of our business to another company. Affiliates. We may share your information with our affiliates, in which case we will require those affiliates to honour this privacy notice. Affiliates include our parent company and any subsidiaries, joint venture partners, or other companies that we control or that are under common control with us. Business Partners. We may share your information with our business partners to offer you certain products, services, or promotions. 5. DO WE USE COOKIES AND OTHER TRACKING TECHNOLOGIES? In Short: We may use cookies and other tracking technologies to collect and store your information. We may use cookies and similar tracking technologies (like web beacons and pixels) to access or store information. Specific information about how we use such technologies and how you can refuse certain cookies is set out in our Cookie Notice: https://app.termly.io/document/cookie-policy/0aafeee2-66a4-40b2-9b13-fda9377dfe78 . 6. HOW LONG DO WE KEEP YOUR INFORMATION? In Short: We keep your information for as long as necessary to fulfil the purposes outlined in this privacy notice unless otherwise required by law. We will only keep your personal information for as long as it is necessary for the purposes set out in this privacy notice, unless a longer retention period is required or permitted by law (such as tax, accounting, or other legal requirements). When we have no ongoing legitimate business need to process your personal information, we will either delete or anonymise such information, or, if this is not possible (for example, because your personal information has been stored in backup archives), then we will securely store your personal information and isolate it from any further processing until deletion is possible. 7. HOW DO WE KEEP YOUR INFORMATION SAFE? In Short: We aim to protect your personal information through a system of organisational and technical security measures. We have implemented appropriate and reasonable technical and organisational security measures designed to protect the security of any personal information we process. However, despite our safeguards and efforts to secure your information, no electronic transmission over the Internet or information storage technology can be guaranteed to be 100% secure, so we cannot promise or guarantee that hackers, cybercriminals, or other unauthorised third parties will not be able to defeat our security and improperly collect, access, steal, or modify your information. Although we will do our best to protect your personal information, transmission of personal information to and from our Services is at your own risk. You should only access the Services within a secure environment. 8. DO WE COLLECT INFORMATION FROM MINORS? In Short: We do not knowingly collect data from or market to children under 18 years of age. We do not knowingly solicit data from or market to children under 18 years of age. By using the Services, you represent that you are at least 18 or that you are the parent or guardian of such a minor and consent to such minor dependent’s use of the Services. If we learn that personal information from users less than 18 years of age has been collected, we will deactivate the account and take reasonable measures to promptly delete such data from our records. If you become aware of any data we may have collected from children under age 18, please contact us at help@suaz.co.uk . 9. WHAT ARE YOUR PRIVACY RIGHTS? In Short: In some regions, such as the European Economic Area (EEA) and United Kingdom (UK), you have rights that allow you greater access to and control over your personal information. You may review, change, or terminate your account at any time. In some regions (like the EEA and UK), you have certain rights under applicable data protection laws. These may include the right (i) to request access and obtain a copy of your personal information, (ii) to request rectification or erasure; (iii) to restrict the processing of your personal information; and (iv) if applicable, to data portability. In certain circumstances, you may also have the right to object to the processing of your personal information. You can make such a request by contacting us by using the contact details provided in the section 'HOW CAN YOU CONTACT US ABOUT THIS NOTICE? ' below. We will consider and act upon any request in accordance with applicable data protection laws. If you are located in the EEA or UK and you believe we are unlawfully processing your personal information, you also have the right to complain to your local data protection supervisory authority. You can find their contact details here: https://ec.europa.eu/justice/data-protection/bodies/authorities/index_en.htm . If you are located in Switzerland, the contact details for the data protection authorities are available here: https://www.edoeb.admin.ch/edoeb/en/home.html . Withdrawing your consent: If we are relying on your consent to process your personal information, you have the right to withdraw your consent at any time. You can withdraw your consent at any time by contacting us by using the contact details provided in the section 'HOW CAN YOU CONTACT US ABOUT THIS NOTICE? ' below. However, please note that this will not affect the lawfulness of the processing before its withdrawal nor, will it affect the processing of your personal information conducted in reliance on lawful processing grounds other than consent. Opting out of marketing and promotional communications: You can unsubscribe from our marketing and promotional communications at any time by clicking on the unsubscribe link in the emails that we send, or by contacting us using the details provided in the section 'HOW CAN YOU CONTACT US ABOUT THIS NOTICE? ' below. You will then be removed from the marketing lists. However, we may still communicate with you — for example, to send you service-related messages that are necessary for the administration and use of your account, to respond to service requests, or for other non-marketing purposes. Cookies and similar technologies: Most Web browsers are set to accept cookies by default. If you prefer, you can usually choose to set your browser to remove cookies and to reject cookies. If you choose to remove cookies or reject cookies, this could affect certain features or services of our Services. To opt out of interest-based advertising by advertisers on our Services visit http://www.aboutads.info/choices/ . For further information, please see our Cookie Notice: https://app.termly.io/document/cookie-policy/0aafeee2-66a4-40b2-9b13-fda9377dfe78 . 10. CONTROLS FOR DO-NOT-TRACK FEATURES Most web browsers and some mobile operating systems and mobile applications include a Do-Not-Track ('DNT') feature or setting you can activate to signal your privacy preference not to have data about your online browsing activities monitored and collected. At this stage no uniform technology standard for recognising and implementing DNT signals has been finalised. As such, we do not currently respond to DNT browser signals or any other mechanism that automatically communicates your choice not to be tracked online. If a standard for online tracking is adopted that we must follow in the future, we will inform you about that practice in a revised version of this privacy notice. 11. DO CALIFORNIA RESIDENTS HAVE SPECIFIC PRIVACY RIGHTS? In Short: Yes, if you are a resident of California, you are granted specific rights regarding access to your personal information. California Civil Code Section 1798.83, also known as the 'Shine The Light' law, permits our users who are California residents to request and obtain from us, once a year and free of charge, information about categories of personal information (if any) we disclosed to third parties for direct marketing purposes and the names and addresses of all third parties with which we shared personal information in the immediately preceding calendar year. If you are a California resident and would like to make such a request, please submit your request in writing to us using the contact information provided below. If you are under 18 years of age, reside in California, and have a registered account with Services, you have the right to request removal of unwanted data that you publicly post on the Services. To request removal of such data, please contact us using the contact information provided below and include the email address associated with your account and a statement that you reside in California. We will make sure the data is not publicly displayed on the Services, but please be aware that the data may not be completely or comprehensively removed from all our systems (e.g. backups, etc.). 12. DO WE MAKE UPDATES TO THIS NOTICE? In Short: Yes, we will update this notice as necessary to stay compliant with relevant laws. We may update this privacy notice from time to time. The updated version will be indicated by an updated 'Revised' date and the updated version will be effective as soon as it is accessible. If we make material changes to this privacy notice, we may notify you either by prominently posting a notice of such changes or by directly sending you a notification. We encourage you to review this privacy notice frequently to be informed of how we are protecting your information. 13. HOW CAN YOU CONTACT US ABOUT THIS NOTICE? If you have questions or comments about this notice, you may email us at help@suaz.co.uk or by post to: SKILLSERVE TECH LTD Bartle House Manchester, Greater Manchester M23WQ England If you are a resident in the United Kingdom, the 'data controller' of your personal information is SKILLSERVE TECH LTD. SKILLSERVE TECH LTD has appointed Paul Dominic O Toole to be its representative in the UK. You can contact them directly regarding the processing of your information by SKILLSERVE TECH LTD, by email at paul@businesssupportclub.com , by visiting http://www.skillserve-tech.co.uk , by phone at 0330 320 1929, or by post to: Bartle House Ocford Court Manchester, Greater Manchester M23WQ England 14. HOW CAN YOU REVIEW, UPDATE, OR DELETE THE DATA WE COLLECT FROM YOU? Based on the applicable laws of your country, you may have the right to request access to the personal information we collect from you, change that information, or delete it. To request to review, update, or delete your personal information, please submit a request form by clicking here.

Looking for a virtual office in Birmingham? SUAZ provides a prestigious business address without the need for physical space. Start your FREE trial today. Build trust and protect privacy with a Birmingham Virtual Office from £10 +VAT Our virtual office plan in Birmingham gives you all the cool stuff you need to make your business look amazing, for way less money. Select a Package Take a Virtual tour of the Office Annual Package - £100 +VAT /year (Save 16.6%) Pay Monthly Pay Annually +VAT /month Basic Package £10.00 For new businesses who want to make a great first impression with a prestigious address. Order Now Registered and director service address that can be used for website, social media, and marketing materials Unlimited digital mail forwarding of statutory mail Up to 2 items of digital mail forwarding of business-related mail per calendar month Weekly mail pickup service +VAT /per year Basic Package £100.00 For new businesses who want to make a great first impression with a prestigious address. Order Now Registered and director service address that can be used for website, social media, and marketing materials Unlimited digital mail forwarding of statutory mail Up to 2 items of digital mail forwarding of business-related mail per calendar month Weekly mail pickup service What our clients say about us 95% of clients would use us again 99% customer satisfaction rate 60% average reduction in costs for new clients within the first year A look inside our Birmingham address. Birmingham is the UK’s startup capital, with a thriving tech cluster! It's the perfect place to launch your dream and be part of something exciting. By choosing a virtual office address in Birmingham, you'll be right in the center of the action. Located at High Street Bromsgrove, our office building is tough to miss with its impressive three-storey Georgian-style exterior, situated in a private gated compound alongside other professional businesses. With meeting rooms, a manned reception, and lively social spaces, it’d be tough to find a better place for your new business to call home. Office Address: 132A High Street Bromsgrove B61 8ES Phone: 0330 320 1929 Email: help@suaz.co.uk What can you get from our virtual office in Birmingham? For low monthly or annual fees , you’ll get: 01 An all-in-one professional business address Impress everyone with a fancy business address that helps people find you online more easily in Birmingham. This can make your business seem more established, even if you're just starting. 02 Efficient and convenient mail handling We'll take care of your mail by giving you one platform to receive it digitally. When your mail reaches us, we scan them and send them straight to your inbox, so you’ll get notified no matter where you are. 03 Top-notch meeting rooms Need to hold an important meeting? Access to awesome meeting rooms, with super-fast internet, comfy ergonomic chairs, and a setting with the comfort of a good work environment 04 Access to unlimited business add-ons Startup A-Z gives you more than just virtual offices. Our team can connect you with reliable people who offer other business services you might need. Like a virtual receptionist to handle calls, a local phone number for a polished touch, marketing expertise to amplify your reach, and a lot more. Why choose SUAZ for virtual office services in Birmingham? We’d like to think we have what it takes to meet your virtual office needs. 
 Here are some reasons why you should choose SUAZ to secure a virtual office address. We keep your mail organised in one place: We keep your mail safe and easy to find, both online and in person. No more searching through stacks of paper or wondering if you missed something important. We’re always here to help: Do you have a question about virtual offices or anything business-related? We're just a phone call or email away, ready to answer anything you ask. We want to make sure you have everything you need. We’re affordable for the benefits that you get: You don't need a lot of money to have a professional presence. Our virtual office gives you the best value for money, so you can save on rent and invest in other areas of your business. Get a prestigious address with good SEO geolocation: Our address belongs to sought-after locations in Birmingham. This can help your business rank higher in search engines when people look for businesses in your area. It makes it easier for people to find you online, which can lead to more customers. The 4-step onboarding process Birmingham Virtual Office offers a very simple, quick and convenient onboarding framework for our customers who need a virtual office. The good news is — you can do all these online! Why Choose Start Up A-Z? About UK Company Formation In the UK, we use the national registrar of companies, Companies House, to form new businesses. You can do this yourself, using the Companies House website found here. It costs a one-off £12 filing fee to form your company and subject to checks, your business will be formed, usually within 48 hours. Why Choose a Formation Agent? Customer Service Most Company Formation agents are here to help and advise you, as a customer you have a right to be treated with respect and understanding through, what can be, a complex and daunting process. Extra Perks You’ll be given a few freebies and introductions alongside your company formation to introduce you to businesses and products or services that can help your company thrive. Easy Process Most formation agents have perfected the process to enable Companies to be formed in as little time, and as few clicks as possible. It’s in our, and your, interests to make the process quick and concise. Why Choose Start Up A-Z? We make things simple. With Start Up A-Z, your application can take as little as two minutes. Why? Because we make some fair assumptions along the way. We know our customers aren’t big, complex companies, they are small and starting, often meaning that a lot of the information that lengthens the Companies House process is not applicable. We support. Not only do we give help and advice to you during your company formation, but also into to the future, as you need it. We and our partners are here to be the reliable foundation stone of your business. This means your calls and questions are just as welcome on day one-thousand as day one. Should I be a Limited Company or a Sole Trader? Limited Company As a limited company, you enjoy limited liability which protects your personal assets. Unlike sole traders, a limited company is legally separate from its business owner, who has limited liability. Having 'limited liability' status means the company is an entity in its own right. This has several advantages. Assuming no fraud has taken place, 'limited liability' means you will not be personally liable for any financial losses made by the business. A limited company can give you added protection, should things go wrong. Because a limited company is a distinct entity from its owners, it may be a little easier for a company to secure business loans and investment. A limited company may benefit from tax advantages. You would be advised to seek professional help to make maximum use of the rules and regulations with regard to pensions, dividends and car ownership. Sole Trader A sole trader is somebody who runs their business as an individual, they are the sole owner of the business and any profit after tax is theirs. However, as a sole trader, you will be personally responsible for your company's debts, so your personal assets could be at risk. How do I start a Limited Company? Companies House The first thing you need to know when starting a limited company is who Companies House are. Companies House are a UK government executive agency who register UK company information. This means that they are the body that incorporates, dissolves and publishes information on all UK companies. Key Responsibilities: incorporate and dissolve limited companies examine and store company information make information available to the public What is a Limited Company? Limited by shares companies are usually businesses that make a profit. This means the company: is legally separate from the people who run it has separate finances from your personal ones has shares and shareholders can keep any profits it makes after paying tax At Start Up A-Z, we only form Limited Companies, making your options as a new business extremely straightforward. We believe that a Limited company is usually the best option for those new to business and have made a concerted effort to make the process as easy as possible. Our Simple Process Choose a company name and check if it's available. We form Ltd and Limited companies. Enter your personal information so we can add you as the companies director. Your director information will be on Companies House. Enter your company information. This will also be submitted to Companies House and be available online. Review your application and make sure everything is correct. We'll submit your application to Companies House and your company will be formed. Should I be a Limited Company or a Sole Trader? Limited Company As a limited company, you enjoy limited liability which protects your personal assets. Unlike sole traders, a limited company is legally separate from its business owner, who has limited liability. Having 'limited liability' status means the company is an entity in its own right. This has several advantages. Assuming no fraud has taken place, 'limited liability' means you will not be personally liable for any financial losses made by the business. A limited company can give you added protection, should things go wrong. Because a limited company is a distinct entity from its owners, it may be a little easier for a company to secure business loans and investment. A limited company may benefit from tax advantages. You would be advised to seek professional help to make maximum use of the rules and regulations with regard to pensions, dividends and car ownership. Sole Trader A sole trader is somebody who runs their business as an individual, they are the sole owner of the business and any profit after tax is theirs. However, as a sole trader, you will be personally responsible for your company's debts, so your personal assets could be at risk. What do I do after Company Formation? Firstly, Congratulations! If you're reading this you've probably formed a company and are looking for your next steps. It's important at this point to pat yourself on the back! You've formed a business, taken a step to personal improvement and opened up a world of opportunities. From everyone at Start Up A-Z and Business Support Club, well done! What Comes Next? You'll now need to consider what your business needs to do in order to trade legally in the UK and beyond. We'll highlight a few key areas, but we strongly recommend using the following Companies House tool to work out your next steps. Consider VAT - Are you going to turn over more than £85,000? If so, you will need to register for VAT Corporation Tax - All Businesses must register for Corporation Tax within the first 3 months PAYE - Are you planning on taking on employees? If so, you'll need to register for PAYE Licenses - What licenses do you need to run your business? Insurance - It's likely that your new business will need insurance. You can find insurance brokers on Business Support Club Grants/funding - How are you going to fund your business? There may be government help if you seek it Use The Checklist We highly recommend using the Companies House checklist. It's packed with information and will tell you all you need to know about the next steps, no matter what your business. How do I set up business bank accounts? Let's get straight to it After forming a company, one of the first things most people do is apply for a business bank account. Doing so straight away as a smart move! While you can trade through director loans and using your personal account, in practice, it's always much easier to use a business bank account. Remember, a Limited company is a separate entity, it's best to operate with that in mind. What do we recommend? You have lots of options these days when it comes to business bank accounts. The high street is competing for your custom with new online rivals. We reccomend that the quickest way to get an account open is to use your personal provider, applying for a business account through them. Having said that, there are plenty of alternatives. Consider avoiding... You should know that applying to a high street bank that you do not already have a relationship with can be a long and frustrating process. Similarly, some firms, claiming to offer business bank accounts only offer limited services through a prepaid card. Many also don't like accepting international payments so it is important to know what the limitations of the bank you are applying to are. Especially if they are a neo online bank provider. The bottom line We recommend: Setting up your account ASAP Choosing a business you already know Researching the online offerings Applying for a bank account with a good promotion How do Ready Made Companies Work? Choosing to form a new business and sourcing suppliers can lead to let-downs, dead ends & delays. A Readymade Company is pre-registered, just waiting to be transferred into your name and allowing you to start trading TODAY. Is a registered office address required by law? Yes, UK limited companies are required by government bodies such as Companies House to register an address for the receipt of official communications. By subscribing to one of our plans, you can use our Manchester address as your registered office address, establishing a credible business image while keeping your personal address private. Will you receive and forward all my mail if I become a member? All our membership plans include receiving, scanning and digitally forwarding official and statutory mail. Receiving and forwarding of business mail such as invoices and supplier communications varies depending on your chosen plan. Click HERE to see more information on our membership plans. What is the difference between statutory mail and business mail? Official government mail includes post from the following UK governing bodies: • Companies House • HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) • HM Court documents (including Tribunals Services and Sheriff Court) • Office for National Statistics (ONS) • Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) • Department of Work & Pensions (DWP) • UK Government Gateway • Intellectual Property Office (IPO) • Ministry of Justice (MoJ) • The Pensions Regulator (TPR) • The Insolvency Service • UK Border Agency How can I become a member? 1. Choose the plan that best fits your business and subscribe. You will be directed to the business support club platform where you can avail of our services. Fill in the required details and choose your preferred payment method using PayPal or Stripe. 2. Once you have successfully paid, your account will be set up. We will send you a simple questionnaire to inform us of your company details and personal details. You will also be required to supply photo identification and proof of address. After completing the information needed, we will notify you that your account is set up and activated. 3. You will receive a confirmation email with the address you can use. Then, change your registered office address on Companies House HERE or through post. Statutory mail will then be received at our address and forwarded to you. For more advanced plans, business mail will also be received and forwarded to you. Alternatively, you can also subscribe to a plan by contacting us at 0330 320 1929 or sending us an email to help@suaz.co.uk. We can also gladly assist you by appointment should you prefer to visit our location at Bartle House, Manchester. Are your plans flexible? Yes, at SUAZ we make it easy to upgrade your plan by providing add-on options for any excess mail when you need it. For inquiries and requests, you can contact us at 0330 320 1929 or send us an email to help@suaz.co.uk. We can also gladly assist you by appointment should you prefer to visit our location at Bartle House, Manchester. Can I use my virtual office address as a Director Service Address? Yes, our premium plan includes one (1) use of our address for the director or officer of your company. Anyone registered as a director or officer of a UK limited company must be prepared to give a correspondence address that will be visible on the public register. To use our address as your Director Service Address, subscribe to our premium plan HERE. How can I change the Registered Office Address of my company? You can change your registered office address online or by post. You can sign into the Companies House Webfiling service HERE or submit an AD01 form by post. You must complete the change within 14 days the change took place. What IDs and documents do you require to subscribe to any membership plan? At SUAZ, we see to it that we comply to Anti-Money Laundering (AML) and ‘Know Your Customer’ requirements and regulations. We will need a proof of ID and proof of address to proceed with your application which can be as follows: Proof of ID: • Passport • Photocard driving licence • Government-issued ID card Proof of address: • Utility bill • Bank statement • Mortgage statement How long is your contract? Our contract length PLACE HERE …Please note that we do not automatically renew your contract at the end of the term. However, we will send you a renewal notice email one month before the term ends. Can the SUAZ virtual office address be used on my ‘Google My Business’ profile? We do not have services for this at the moment. However, other business directories may allow its use as your business address. Do you have a virtual receptionist to answer my business calls? As our virtual office packages currently do not include a virtual receptionist, SUAZ offers a virtual receptionist with a separate plan. You can click HERE to know more about our virtual receptionist services. Can I hold physical meetings at your location? Yes, if you have subscribed to our premium plan, you get access to our meeting room for 30 minutes per calendar month. Additionally, with our professional plan, you get a sign-up bonus of 1 hour use of our meeting room. The meeting room can accommodate up to (how many pax?) PLACE HERE Why do I need a Registered Office Address? UK limited companies are legally required to have a UK registered office. Our registered office service covers use of our address for official government mail only. This address cannot be used for general business correspondence, for which you must also purchase our Business Address Service (Our Virtual Business Plus package covers both official and business mail). Using a Registered Office Address has the added benefit of protecting your personal address from appearing on the public register. What is included as official mail and is mail forwarding free? Official government mail includes post from the following UK governing bodies: Companies House HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) HM Court documents (including Tribunals Services and Sheriff Court) Office for National Statistics (ONS) Information Commissioner's Office (ICO) Department of Work & Pensions (DWP) Government Gateway Intellectual Property Office (IPO) Ministry of Justice The Pensions Regulator (TPR) The Insolvency Service UK Border Agency How does the Telephone Answering Service work? We will give you a London (0203) phone number which you can either use as your own number or you can divert calls to it when you are busy. When your number is called, we answer it in your company name. We then let the caller know that the extension is busy, you are in a meeting or calls are going to voicemail (or anything else as instructed by you). We will take a message and their contact information, which are all immediately uploaded to your online admin account and sent to you by email and via the MYCO smartphone app. What's included in the Document Filing service? We can file your yearly confirmation statement directly with Companies House. It's is a legal requirement which can be done by you, or we’ll take care of it on your behalf to save you the hassle. We’ll also send ongoing reminders yearly to make sure you don’t forget. How can SUAZ offer company formations for free? Here at SUAZ, we believe that it shouldn’t cost you a fortune to follow your dream. We also know that starting a business isn’t cheap, which is why our company formation service is completely free - so you can keep your hard-earned cash to make your business the best it can be. Wondering how we make our money? Our upsells are bonus features that can help your business get a head start. We also introduce you to other businesses and sometimes earn a commission from doing so. When can your business be up and running? We try our best to get your business up and running as quickly as possible. Submissions sent before midday usually come back to us the same day, but this can’t be guaranteed as delays do happen. We try to get all applications back within 36 hours, but if there are issues with your application such as your company name being flagged for extra checks, this can delay the process. What kind of company can you set up? Here at SUAZ, we form limited companies. Operating as a limited company can give your business credibility and your customers confidence in your business. And once your company name is registered as a limited company, it's protected by law and no one else is allowed to use it. As for the industry or nature of your company, the choice is yours - all we ask is that your company has only a single director. Why should you set up a company? Setting up your own business can be life-changing. When you’re your own boss, you’ll be motivated to do the best work possible and make your work life exactly how you want it. You’ll be in charge of your work-life balance, can follow your passion and fulfil what may be your life-long dream. And while it may take a while to get your company off the ground, you’ll be working towards complete financial independence and security. With SUAZ, you’ll have all the support you need to set up your company quickly and successfully, knowing that you’ve got experts at hand. Can you set up a company on your own? You can set up a company on your own through Companies House. It costs a one-off filing fee of £12 to form your company and should all be approved, your business will usually be formed within 48 hours. Using a company formation agent like SUAZ can alleviate any stress or confusion that comes with starting a business. We can take care of everything for you and give you the support and guidance you need, so you can focus on making your business dreams a reality. What support is available after you’ve set up your company? We’re not only here during your company formation process. We’re here when you need us every step of the way, as and when you need a helping hand. Whether you have a question about your business, or have misplaced one of your documents , we’re always at the end of the line. What else do you need to start a business? What you need to get your business up and running will ultimately depend on the nature of your business. Once your company is formed, your next steps are: Checking if you need any licences or permits Making sure you have the right type of business insurance Sorting out your business’ address - if you’re looking to avoid the cost and maintenance of renting an office space, our virtual office address service may suit you Organising your business’ finances - with our Company Pro package you’ll get a Trilogy Business bank account to get you started Can you close your company down if you change your mind? It’s always a good idea not to rush into starting a business - make sure you’re both mentally and financially ready. If you have any doubts, feel free to get in touch with us and ask any questions before you jump into any decisions. But if you change your mind and decide it isn’t the right time to start your business, you’ll have the option to dissolve it - you’re only human after all! Just let us know and we can help you dissolve your company for £24.99. Can you set your UK company up from abroad? Unfortunately, our service is only being made to UK residents. As part of the formation application, you will be required to verify your identity and confirm your residence in the UK. Can you help with startup finance? If you’re looking to start your own business, you’ll know that it can take a significant amount of money to get it off the ground. Instead of applying for a bank loan and waiting for it to be approved, or dipping into your hard-earned personal savings, you can give your business the financial boost it needs to thrive with Start Up A-Z’s fixed-rate finance. Take a look at how our startup finance can help your business to grow. What should you list as your company address? When starting a business, you’ll need to decide where your place of work will be. For new businesses just starting out, it can be costly and often unnecessary to rent and maintain an office space. But having a company address can help your business to establish a professional image from the get-go. If you’re looking for a company address without the cost of renting an office space, our virtual office packages could be just what you need. Virtual office gives you a mailing address right in the heart of Manchester to help you establish a professional image, and maintain your privacy too. How do I book a meeting room? Our meeting rooms are bookable online via your account admin panel under the tab titled 'Meeting Space'. This tab will only appear if you are eligible to book a meeting room. You can also reserve a meeting space on the go by downloading our ‘MYCO Meeting’ app on Android or the App store. Bookings are not official until you have received a confirmation email from us. What are the partnership perks with Business Support Club? Search our extensive marketplace to source trusted local and national product and service providers, to help get your new business off the ground. Looking for... Branding experts? Certified accountants? Legal specialists? Stationary suppliers? Printers? Domain and email hosting? Web developers? They're all on BSC... plus more! Reduce your costs Save time and effort It's free and you'll love it! Frequently Asked Questions See all FAQs Need Business Support? Join Business Support Club, your one-stop shop for your business needs. Avail our startup essentials package to get your business up and running fast! Join the club for free!