Establish Your LLP and Plan Its Financial Year
Setting up a limited liability partnership requires careful preparation and a clear approach to its ongoing reporting responsibilities. We help you organise the information needed for incorporation, prepare the relevant documentation and submit your application to Companies House.
Alongside formation, we explain your LLP’s accounting reference date and help you assess whether its financial year-end suits your business needs. Whether you are establishing a new partnership or considering a change to an existing accounting period, our practical support helps you coordinate filings, understand the implications and build an organised foundation for your LLP’s administration.
Forms covered
| Form | Description |
|---|---|
| LL IN01 (version 12.0, 08/26) | Application to incorporate an LLP |
| LL AA01 (version 6.0, 03/26) | Change of accounting reference date of an LLP |
Deadlines and fees
- Incorporation costs £100 online or £124 on paper.
- First accounts are due within 9 months of the ARD, or 21 months from incorporation if the first period is longer than 12 months.
- The first confirmation statement is due within 14 days after the first 12 months.
- Member changes must be reported within 14 days.
- LL AA01 must be filed before the accounts deadline for the affected period.
Key points
- LL IN01 is only for LLPs. Companies use IN01.
- An LLP must have two designated members at all times.
- The proposed name must be available.
- LL AA01 can’t extend a period beyond 18 months unless the LLP is in administration.
Frequently Asked Questions
Let’s Discuss Your Requirements
Have a question about our services? Speak with our team to discuss your engagement, deadlines and the support you need.
Can We Change the ARD Once Accounts Are Overdue?
No. The LL AA01 must be filed before the accounts deadline for the affected period, so once accounts are overdue it is too late to change the accounting reference date for that period. Because of this, it is worth deciding early whether your LLP’s year-end suits your business. We can review your dates and file the change in good time if it is needed.
What Is the Accounting Reference Date of an LLP?
The accounting reference date (ARD) sets when your LLP’s financial year ends. It determines the period covered by your accounts and when they are due. Choosing a year-end that fits your business can make reporting and planning easier. We can explain how the ARD works and help you assess whether the current date suits you.
How Much Does It Cost to Incorporate an LLP?
Incorporation costs £100 online or £124 on paper. Applying online is therefore cheaper and is usually quicker. We can prepare and submit your application to Companies House so that the correct fee is paid and the form is completed properly.
Which Form Do I Use to Incorporate an LLP?
You use form LL IN01, the application to incorporate an LLP. It is only for LLPs, and companies use IN01 instead. Using the wrong form can cause delays, so it is worth checking before you apply. We can confirm the right form and complete it for you.
What Does an LLP Need Before It Can Be Incorporated?
An LLP must have two designated members at all times, and the proposed name must be available. You will also need to organise the member details and other information required for the application. Preparing these in advance helps avoid rejection and delays. We can help you gather the information and submit the application.
When Are the First Accounts and Confirmation Statement Due?
First accounts are due within 9 months of the ARD, or 21 months from incorporation if the first accounting period is longer than 12 months. The first confirmation statement is due within 14 days after the first 12 months. Member changes must be reported within 14 days. We can track these dates for you so nothing is missed.
How Do I Change the Accounting Reference Date of an LLP?
You change it by filing form LL AA01, the change of accounting reference date of an LLP. It must be filed before the accounts deadline for the affected period. We can check the timing, prepare the form and file it for you.
Is There a Limit on How Long an LLP’s Accounting Period Can Be?
Yes. The LL AA01 cannot extend an accounting period beyond 18 months unless the LLP is in administration. If you are thinking of lengthening a period, it is worth checking the rules first so that your plan is allowed. We can review your options and advise on the best approach.