Any advice on starting up a Ltd company?

[outtolunch]

And how to find a good accountant.

Get a good accountant (but you knew that already . They will be able to guide you through the process and ensure all paperwork is correctly completed and lodged.

Word of mouth is the best way to find a good accountant. Where are you based?

That's what I have heard but don't know anyone with accountants here. I am in London.

I can recommend one just outside London - can I CAT you?

Please do!

Done .

thanks!

Just going through the same process.

Have set up a company - cost £50 on web. You can do it yourself through companies house. They send you an incorporation pack and the fee is £20 to incorporate.

Just seen accountant. Now researching my accounting package. Have come on mumsnet to ask peoples opinion.

And for goodness sake if you take on any hire purchase, loan type agreements for the company - make sure you don't sign a personal guarantee form. They can stuff things up if things don't work out.

DH (unfortunately) did that with the computer and other techincal bits. Sadly because of that, with the business no longer tradining he's no liable for paying the money. And it's one we can't get away from, if we keep the computer - they want their money, if we send it back - they still want their money .

If it's a new business then the bank will ask for a personal guarantee on the overdraft/loan too

And the same for premises

yes if you get a business loan - we were turned down - so ended up getting a personal loan to pay for the start-up costs.

He had a business account, but no overdraft on it, and only £250 on the credit card - so he didn't sign any for that.

the other question is whether you definitely want a limited company rather than sole trader as the obligations/costs are less if you are a sole trader eg tax and filing