No. You don't need to register your business with Companies House or HMRC before you apply for a Start Up Loan. Many people apply before they've set the business up formally.
Sole trader or limited company?
Either can apply. Whichever you choose:
- the loan is a personal loan in your name, not the business's
- it's paid into your personal bank account, and you then use it for the business
- you're personally responsible for repaying it, even if your business is a limited company
See Is a Start Up Loan a personal loan? Do I need security or a guarantor?.
If you set up a limited company
Because the loan is personal, you'll need to get the money into the company once it's set up. Our guide explains how: Can a limited company get a Start Up Loan?
When you'll need to register
You'll need to register the business at some point, for example with HMRC when you start trading as self-employed. Your advisor can talk you through the timing.
Last reviewed: 8 October 2026