How to Set Up a Limited Company as a Content Creator
Thinking about going limited as a content creator? Maybe your brand deals are growing, your YouTube channel’s taking off, or you’re just fed up with HMRC taking a big chunk of your self-employed profits.
Setting up as a limited company might be the move—but what does that actually mean, and how do you do it?
Let’s break it down in plain English 👇
✅ What is a Limited Company?
A limited company is a separate legal entity. That means you and your business are no longer the same thing.
Instead of everything being in your personal name (like when you're self-employed), the company has its own bank account, pays its own tax, and owns the money it makes.
You become a director of the company and get paid by it—either through a salary, dividends, or both.
💡 Why Would a Content Creator Go Limited?
Here’s why a lot of creators make the switch:
Pay less tax – Once you're earning more than around £30–40k a year, a limited company can help you keep more of your money.
Separate your finances – Easier to manage and looks more professional to brands.
Limited liability – If the business gets into trouble, your personal stuff (like your house or car) is usually protected.
📦 What Do I Need to Set Up a Limited Company?
It’s not as scary as it sounds. You’ll need:
A company name – Keep it professional (you can trade under a different name too).
A registered office address – This can be your accountant’s if you don’t want to use your home.
At least one director – That’s you.
A shareholder – Also you (unless you’ve got a business partner).
A business bank account – You’ll need this to keep things separate from your personal money.
You can set it up yourself on Companies House (£12 online), or get your accountant to sort it for you—usually quicker and less hassle.
🧾 What Are the Ongoing Responsibilities?
When you’re limited, there’s a bit more admin. Here's what you'll need to do each year:
File annual accounts
Submit a confirmation statement
Pay Corporation Tax
Do a personal tax return if you're taking dividends or other income
You’ll also want to register for PAYE if you’re paying yourself a salary, and possibly VAT if you go over the threshold (£90k).
💸 Can I Still Claim Expenses?
Yes—but it’s a bit different to being self-employed.
Only expenses that are “wholly and exclusively” for business use can be claimed, and they need to be in the company’s name where possible.
That means things like:
Editing software
Equipment (camera, mic, tripod, etc.)
Internet (business %)
Travel for shoots or events
A good accountant (👋 hi) can help you make sure you’re claiming everything you’re allowed.
🚨 Things to Watch Out For
Don’t use company money like it’s your own – You can’t just transfer money to yourself whenever you want. You need to pay it as salary or dividends, and it needs to be taxed properly.
You’ll need bookkeeping – Even if you hate numbers, you’ll need to track income and expenses properly. Cloud accounting software helps, or you can hand it over to someone else.
Dividends aren’t free money – They’re taxed, just not through PAYE.
🏁 Final Thoughts
If you’re a content creator earning decent money and ready to level up, going limited could save you thousands in tax and make your business look more professional to brands and agencies.
But it’s not for everyone.
The best thing? Speak to an accountant who understands how creators work (not one who looks at you blankly when you say “TikTok”).
I help UK-based content creators and online business owners like you:
Pay less tax
Stay compliant with HMRC
Set up limited companies
Structure income from brand deals, ad revenue, digital products and more
📞 Book your free call here — no pressure, just solid advice tailored to how you earn.