Legal

From determining the structure of your company to familiarising yourself with the law; our articles and guides are a useful source of information.

View our range of articles below for guidance on what you'll need to know from a legal point of view when setting up a business, from explainers of key legislation to the different types of insurance your business might need.

Setting up your business

Find out more about your legal responsibilities when you set up a business.

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How to register as a sole trader

Our guide explains how to register as a sole trader, the pros and cons of this model, and what you can expect from setting up to everyday operations.

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What is a private limited company?

Learn what a UK private limited company is, what’s involved in setting up, how it operates and the rules it must follow to help you decide if it’s right for your business.

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What is a franchise?

Read our expert guide to franchises – learn what a franchise is, how they work and what you need to know before you invest in one.

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Legal documents every start up business needs

If you want to protect your investment in your new start up business, then having the right legal documents in place is a crucial part of your journey.

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Registering your limited company with Companies House

Ready to make your start-up a limited company? Our comprehensive guide to registering your company with Companies House is here to help.

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Understanding tax for start-ups

Our guidance articles help you understand the various tax implications for your business.

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Main taxes that apply to small businesses

Small businesses face a number of taxes that they – and their directors – must pay. Here’s our guide to the small business taxes you should understand.

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What is Corporation Tax?

Corporations Tax is one of the most important taxes your small business will pay – here’s our guide to what Corporation Tax is.

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PAYE Tax – a guide for small businesses

With the Pay As You Earn (PAYE) system, employers deduct tax and national insurance (NICs) from their employees’ earnings.

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What are Business rates and how can I reduce them?

Business rates can seem confusing and daunting, but they don't have to be. We break down what business rates are and how you can reduce them.

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Taxes affecting the self-employed

Learn about the taxes small businesses must pay; which ones are relevant to your business, when you must pay them, and why you must pay them.

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How to fill in your self-assessment tax form

Make filling in your annual HMRC self-assessment form pain-free with our handy tax return tips and advice. We guide you through the whole process.

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How to minimise tax on profits

Leverage Corporation Tax relief and allowances to maximise profit and minimise your tax liabilities. Make the most of your Corporation Tax allowances.

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Learn about insurance for start-ups

Discover the various types of insurance your start-up may require to operate

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Business insurance for beginners

When you’re starting a business, it can be hard to know what insurance you need. Here's a guide to the main types of business insurance that are available.

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What is public liability insurance?

The amount of public liability insurance you need, how to get cover, and the amount it costs all depends on your business. Find out more.

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Self employed insurance for start up businesses

Insurance policies for self employed business owners differ from typical insurance cover. We discuss various types of self employed insurance cover.

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Start-ups and the law

Discover explainers on some of the law your business will need to comply with.

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Legal factors affecting businesses

As well as finding customers, handling finances and hiring staff, you need to take time to understand any legal factors affecting businesses.

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Understanding copyright law

Copyrighting protects the creators of original work. Understand what copyright means and how to legally use copyrighted material.

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What is a trademark?

Learn to protect your brand and its valuable assets like business name and logo by understanding trademark definition and why you should use a trademark.

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What are intellectual property rights?

Intellectual property (IP) is everything that you, your business and your employees have created using your intellect. Includes brand, logos, inventions.

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What is UK GDPR?

The UK General Data Protection Act is designed to safeguard consumer data and ensure rights to privacy. We explain what the UK GDPR covers.

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Employment laws in the UK every business should know

Employment law exists to protect employees’ – it also safeguards your business. Employment laws also set boundaries, which can prevent and resolve disputes.

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What is a business licence and who needs one?

Does your business need a business licence? Find out the purpose and process of applying, and if your business requires a one.

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