What is the IN01 form?

If you’re setting up a limited company in the UK, one of the key documents you’ll encounter is the IN01 form. This is the official Companies House form used to register a new company, whether you’re filing online or on paper. It collects all the essential information about your new business, its directors, shareholders, and registered office.

While most entrepreneurs today register their company online often with an agent like Formations Wise – it’s still important to understand what the IN01 form is, what information it contains, and why it matters.

Purpose of the IN01 Form

The IN01 form is the foundation of your company’s legal identity. It’s used to:

• Register your company name
• Define your company’s registered office address
• Identify the company’s officers (directors, company secretary if applicable)
• Record details of shareholders or members
• Specify your SIC code (the official business activity classification)
• Outline the company’s share capital structure
• Include the statement of compliance confirming you meet all legal requirements

Completing the IN01 form accurately ensures that Companies House can approve your application without delays or rejections.

Who Needs to Complete the IN01 Form?

The IN01 form must be completed by anyone registering a private company limited by shares, private company limited by guarantee, or a public limited company (PLC) in the UK.

You can complete it:

• Online – via Companies House Web Incorporation Service or through a formation agent like Formations Wise
• By post – using the paper form, which takes longer to process and costs more (£71 compared to £50 online)

Information Required on the IN01 Form

To complete the IN01 form, you’ll need to provide:

1. Company Name – Must be unique and follow Companies House naming rules.
   Resource: Companies House Name Availability Checker
2. Registered Office Address – This must be in the same UK jurisdiction (England/Wales, Scotland, or Northern Ireland) where you’re incorporating.
3. Director Details – Full name, service address, date of birth, nationality, and occupation.
4. Company Secretary (if applicable) – Optional for private companies but required for PLCs.
5. Shareholder or Member Details – Names, addresses, and shareholdings for each.
6. SIC Code – A 5-digit code describing your business activity.
   Resource: SIC Code List
7. Share Capital – For companies limited by shares, details of the total number of shares, their value, and distribution.
8. Statement of Compliance – A declaration that you’ve met all legal requirements under the Companies Act 2006.

Filing Options and Costs

• Online Filing – £50 via the Companies House Web Incorporation Service or through a formation agent. Approval can take as little as 24 hours.
• Paper Filing – £71 via post using the physical IN01 form. Processing can take 8–10 working days.

If you want to speed things up, a formation agent like Formations Wise can handle the process for you, ensuring all details are correct and filed on time.