- Apply in minutes, get your Certificate of Incorporation within one business day.
- Formation for £14.99 or just £1 with the Company Secretary bundle.
- Includes a free, FSCS-protected Tide Business Bank Account.
Compare Top Rated Company Formation & Banking Bundles
Choosing the right company formation package is one of the first steps in launching a venture. Many modern providers now offer Launch Bundles that include both your business bank account and the facilitation of your company incorporation in one application.
Below, we compare top rated business accounts from providers that offer integrated business setup and support as Authorised Corporate Service Providers (ACSPs).
Know Your Business is a private comparison and referral website. We are not the UK Government, Companies House or a government agency. Our service compares business banking providers who are Authorised Corporate Service Providers (ACSPs).
| ASCP Provider | Fee to Register Limited Company | Free Bank Account? | Turnaround (days) | Extra Info |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
£14.99 or £1*
Tide’s £1 formation offer requires a subscription to their Company Secretary service (£12.50/month for 11 months). The £14.99 offer is a standalone setup fee with a free business account.
|
Yes | 1 |
|
| ANNA Money | £100 Includes first year confirmation statement & company changes. Free with Enhanced (£199) or Total Support (£399) plans | Yes | 1–3 |
|
| Zempler Bank | £100 or Free Add £100 to your new account within 30 days and receive £100 back | Yes | 2–3 |
|
Prices correct at the time of publication (via providers website – not all state if inclusive of VAT). These partners offer discounted or free formation as part of their business account packages. A company incorporation can be completed directly via GOV.UK for a statutory fee of £100.
Understanding Your Options: How to Launch Your Business
As a comparison platform, we believe in showing you all the routes available to you. There are three primary ways to establish your business and your banking:
Route 1: The Banking Bundle (Recommended for Speed) As shown above, using a provider like Tide or Zempler allows you to handle your identity verification (KYB/KYC) once. The bank acts as an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP) to facilitate the setup on your behalf.
Route 2: Direct via Companies House (The DIY Route) You can choose to file your registration directly with the government via GOV.UK. The statutory digital fee is £100. Once you receive your Certificate of Incorporation, you can then apply for a business bank account separately.
Route 3: Professional Advisory or Specialised Support (The Complex Business).
For companies with more complex structures, an accountant or solicitor can provide bespoke advice. This is typically the most expensive route but offers the most legal customisation. Dedicated ACSP’s can provide more specialised focused support with additional services.
Featured Start Up Banking Offers
1. Tide Business Banking: Start Up Bundle
Tide is a leading choice for UK founders, offering a robust business account with no monthly fees. Their Start Up Bundle is designed to get your banking and legal structure ready simultaneously.
- Best for: Simply structured companies looking for speed.
- The Perk: Includes facilitated company setup through Tide’s ACSP status.
- Timeline: Most accounts and incorporations are processed within one business day.
- View Tide Offer
2. ANNA Money: The Total Support Account
ANNA (Absolutely No Nonsense Admin) combines banking with an AI powered assistant for taxes and invoices.
- Best for: Founders who want help with ongoing compliance and confirmation statements.
- The Perk: Company formation is included as part of their higher tier business account plans.
3. Zempler Bank: Fast Track Setup
Formerly known as Cashplus, Zempler offers a reliable UK bank account with a cashback model for new businesses.
- Best for: Businesses that want a traditional banking feel with modern tech.
- The Perk: Pay the standard setup fee and receive it back as a credit to your new business account.
Frequently Asked Questions for New Founders
1. Do I need a business bank account immediately?
Yes. A limited company is a separate legal entity. It is a legal requirement to keep business finances separate from personal ones. Using a banking bundle ensures your account is ready the moment your company is incorporated.
2. What is an ACSP?
An Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP) is a private entity registered with Companies House to verify identities and file incorporation’s. Business account providers like Tide use this authorised status to help you set up your business legally.
3. What details are required for a startup account?
To use a facilitated setup service, you will typically need your proposed company name, a UK registered office address, and identity documents for all directors.
This page is for informational purposes only. Know Your Business is a private comparison and referral website. We are not the UK Government, Companies House or a government agency. Our service provides a comparison of B2B banking providers who are Authorised Corporate Service Providers (ACSPs). While our partners may offer discounted or free formation as part of their business account packages, an official company incorporation can be completed directly via GOV.UK for a statutory fee of £100.