Business Startup Tools

Business Startup Tools

Free tools for founders, freelancers and small businesses covering business names, domains, company setup, VAT, websites and useful software.

Tools & checkers

Popular questions

In-depth Business articles

Long-form, plain-English guides researched for UK readers.

Business Startup Tools· 9 min read

Starting a UK Business in 2026: Sole Trader, Ltd or LLP?

Choosing between sole trader, limited company and LLP in 2026, plus VAT, business banking, insurance and a realistic startup costs checklist.

Read guide
Business Startup Tools· 8 min read

UK VAT Registration in 2026: Should You Register, and When?

When UK businesses must register for VAT in 2026, voluntary registration trade-offs, Flat Rate vs Standard, Making Tax Digital and common pitfalls.

Read guide
Business Startup Tools· 8 min read

UK Startup Funding Options 2026: From Bootstrapping to VC

Plain-English guide to UK startup funding in 2026: bootstrapping, Start Up Loans, SEIS/EIS, angels, VC, grants and which suits which kind of business.

Read guide
Business Startup Tools· 7 min read

UK Business Names and Trademarks: A Founder's Guide

How to choose, check and protect a UK business name in 2026: Companies House rules, trademark classes, domain availability and avoiding rebrand-forcing mistakes.

Read guide
Business & Startup· 8 min read

UK Self-Employed Tax Guide 2026: Sole Traders and Side Hustles

How UK self-employed tax works in 2026: trading allowance, expenses, Class 2 and 4 NI, payments on account, MTD for Income Tax and avoiding penalties.

Read guide
Business Tools· 8 min read

Sole Trader vs Limited Company in 2026: Which Saves You More?

When a UK limited company beats sole trader status in 2026 — tax comparisons at £30k, £60k and £100k profit, dividend tax, and the admin trade-offs.

Read guide
Business Tools· 7 min read

Startup Cash Runway: How to Calculate, Extend and Survive in 2026

How UK startups should calculate cash runway in 2026, the burn rate vs revenue maths, sensible buffers and the levers to extend runway without raising more.

Read guide
Business Tools· 7 min read

How Much Should a UK Business Website Cost in 2026?

Realistic 2026 UK costs for business websites — DIY platforms, freelancer builds, agency sites and ecommerce — plus what's worth paying for.

Read guide

Quick guides

Business

How do I choose a business name?

Domain availability, trademarks, Companies House rules and brand fit.

Read guide

Need help after using a checker?

Where appropriate, Checks Out can help you understand the type of professional you may need, such as a solicitor, broker, adviser, installer, relocation agent or property specialist.

Related categories