What Is a Registered Office Address and Why Do I Need One?

What is a registered office address?

When a limited company or Limited Liability Partnership (LLP) is formed, it is a legal requirement to provide a registered office (RO). This is the official ‘head office’ address where all correspondents will be sent, so there must be a physical postal address that is maintained at all times, in a location adjacent to where you incorporate your company or Limited Liability Partnership.  

A registered office can be any kind of physical address, including your home address, shop, factory, accountant’s office, solicitor’s office, or a RO service provided by a company formation agent. It does not actually need to be your place of business but must be located in the same jurisdiction as that of where the company is incorporated, either in England and Wales, Scotland or Northern Ireland.

What is the purpose of a registered office?

After incorporation, Companies House puts the registered office of all the limited companies and LLPs on record, as well as providing information to HMRC. The registered office is where Companies House and HMRC can send official notices and mail. It is also the place where statutory company records are stored and where these can be open for public inspection.

Choosing the right registered office address for your company

As the registered office address is in the public domain, it is important to ensure it is the address you want people to see. Using your home address may leave you open to junk mail and even uninvited guests. It also does not convey the professionalism you will wish for. To create the best impression for prospective customers and investors, using a company formation agent with a prestigious address can really make all the difference. This will be the address everyone sees, giving you a stylish and thoroughly professional profile.

For more information on our registered address service, call us on 0800 0198 698 or contact us online.