There are many benefits of trading as a limited company. In most western countries it is possible to register a business so that it gains the status of a limited liability company and this must be seen in the context of the risks that all businesses face.
Financial risks might be the most obvious. The aim of any business is to make a profit but this is easier said that done. Considerable financial risks are always involved as money must be invested and risked before profits can be made. Both the owners and the business itself will benefit by being fenced off from each other.
The legal risks that are faced by the average business far exceed personal risks face by any individual. A business has liabilities in respect of staff who may be injured or become disaffected. Regulatory bodies such as competition tribunals or health and safety regulators may also cause many difficulties and possible legal action.
In addition to financial and legal risks there are also personal risks. An owner may be struck down by disease or accident and be unable to carry on working. A natural disaster like a flood or storm could also cause unexpected disaster. In such cases a firm could find itself in trouble through being linked to the fortunes of a sole owner or partnership.
As the word ‘limited’ implies responsibility for a business cannot be absolved altogether, but it can be limited. If a business falls on hard times and is forced into bankruptcy. A sole proprietor may find that he loses his house and all his assets in order to pay the debts of his business. The main benefit of registering is that it protects the owners and directors from too much personal liability
A firm that has become a legal entity enjoys a certain status in its own right. To its trading partners it may seem more reliable and trustworthy for having this legal independence. It may also enjoy benefits such as tax dispensation, depending upon where it is located.
Benefits of trading as a limited company may also include protection of a name and identity. No other business may appropriate the name of a registered company. Because it acquires its own legal identity it may carry on trading on its own merits even after its founder has sold out his shares or died.
Setting up as a limited company is only one of the methods company formation can occur. You can learn more by visiting Companies House company formation web pages soon.