BusinessLink.gov.uk has introduced a cheaper, easier to use Web Incorporation Service.

The new site allows anyone to set up a private company limited by shares for £18. All that is needed is an email address, a password and the usual information of company name, plus details of directors and shareholders.

After the necessary automated checks the certificate of incorporation is issued within 24 hours. For such a basic sum you obviously only get a basic service which means no registers, no share certificates or company seal but these are not needed for the majority of the directors that will use this service. The articles will be the default 2006 Articles.

The link below will take you to the Businesslink website where there are comprehensive details as to how to use the system.

Web Incorporation Service