What is a Certificate of Incorporation?

A Certificate of Incorporation is the official document that proves your limited company legally exists. It’s issued by Companies House (the UK’s registrar of companies) when your company is successfully formed.

Think of it as your company’s birth certificate.

What Information Does It Include?

Your Certificate of Incorporation will typically show:

• Your company name

• Your company registration number

• The date of incorporation

• The jurisdiction (e.g. England and Wales, Scotland, or Northern Ireland)

• The fact that your company is limited by shares or guarantee

Why Is It Important?

This certificate confirms your company has been legally registered and is recognised by UK law.

You may need to present it when:

• Opening a business bank account

• Applying for licences or contracts

• Setting up with suppliers

• Dealing with investors or partners

Many banks and financial institutions will ask to see your Certificate of Incorporation before approving your business account or services.

Where Can I Find It?

If you formed your company through Companies MadeSimple, your Certificate of Incorporation is available to download any time from your online account.

✅ Top Tip: Keep a copy safe—both printed and digital. It’s a key piece of your company’s legal paperwork.

Need help retrieving your certificate or unsure if it's valid? Contact our support team—we’re happy to help.