HMRC requires a new limited company to register for Corporation Tax within 3 months of starting to trade, not from the date of incorporation. Many founders confuse the two dates and miss the window without realising it. Choosing the right structure, registering with HMRC correctly, and setting up your bookkeeping from day one all matter more in the first few months than at any other point.
We guide new Slough businesses through structure choice, HMRC and Companies House registration, and the practical setup most founders overlook, such as opening a business bank account and choosing accounting software. This connects directly into company formation if you have not yet incorporated, and into bookkeeping once you are trading.
A company can sit incorporated for months before it starts trading, and the 3 month Corporation Tax registration deadline only begins once trading actually starts. Founders who assume the clock started at incorporation either register too early with no activity to report, or miss the real deadline entirely. This is exactly why the trading start date needs to be identified clearly from the outset. We confirm this date with you directly and register at the right time, not a guessed one.
This service is for anyone starting a new business in or around Slough, whether or not a company already exists.
We compare sole trader, partnership, and limited company against your specific situation before you commit to one.
We register your business for Corporation Tax, PAYE, or Self Assessment, depending on your structure.
You receive a clear timeline of every filing deadline your new business faces in its first 12 months.
We advise on business bank accounts and accounting software so your records are correct from your first transaction.
It depends on your liability exposure, expected profit, and how you plan to grow. We compare the options against your specific plans rather than defaulting to one structure.
Within 3 months of starting to trade, not from your incorporation date. These are often different dates
Limited companies are legally required to keep business finances separate. Sole traders are not required to, but it makes bookkeeping considerably easier.
Yes, we can pick up from wherever you are and confirm the correct registration timeline from here.
Our team is part of Direct Assist Accountants' ACCA-regulated practice in Slough
See our full range of accounting services for individuals and businesses
Direct Assist Accountants have been incredibly reliable in managing our bookkeeping, payroll, and tax returns. Their team is always available to answer questions and explain things clearly, making our accounting stress-free. We feel confident knowing everything is handled accurately and on time. Highly recommended for any business looking for professional support in Slough!
Read moreOne of the most proactive accountants in Slough and the surrounding areas. They always prepare and finalize my VAT returns well in advance, allowing me to plan and manage my taxes effectively.
Read moreBrilliant firm. They have been doing my accounts for over 10 years with extraordinary professional skills. Have been recommended them to a few of my associates & they sing their praises of them. We highly recommend Direct Assist Accountants.
Read moreI have been using Direct Assist Accountants for a very long time. I am very happy with their services. Direct Assist Accountants is a specialist small business accountant and I have no doubt about this. They have a good reputation for providing first-class services. I am happy with them.
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