Tide vs Revolut vs ANNA: free company formation compared (2026)
The quick answer: Tide, Revolut and ANNA will all form your UK limited company for free when you open a business account with them — they cover the Companies House fee to win you as a banking customer. The right one depends on the account you’d want anyway.
Why formation can be “free”
Registering a company yourself at Companies House costs a small filing fee (currently £50 online — check the latest on GOV.UK). Account providers pay that on your behalf because a new business customer is worth more to them than the fee. You get formation plus banking in one step; they get a customer. We may earn a referral fee when you sign up — it never changes our ranking.
Head to head
| Tide | Revolut Business | ANNA | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Free formation | Yes, with account | Yes, with account | Yes, with account |
| Best for | UK-focused, invoicing | Multi-currency, spend control | Invoicing + tax help |
| Account type | E-money | E-money | E-money |
| Stands out for | Fast, simple UK setup | International payments | Tax pots & reminders |
How to choose
- Trading mainly in the UK and want it simple? Tide is a clean, fast route.
- Dealing in multiple currencies? Revolut’s multi-currency features earn their keep.
- Want a hand with tax as you go? ANNA leans into tax pots and reminders.
Remember the account matters more than the free formation — you’ll use the account every day. Pick the bank you’d want anyway, and take the free incorporation as a bonus.
Not sure a limited company is even right yet? Start with sole trader vs limited company or run the cost of a limited company calculator.
Some links on this page are referral links: if you sign up with a partner we may earn a fee at no extra cost to you. It never changes what we recommend or the order we list it, and where the best option is free we say so. Provider details (fees, features, eligibility) change — always confirm current terms on the provider’s own site. This article is information, not financial advice.