When designing company stationery we need to keep in mind that there is some information that you are legally required to publish. This varies according to the type of business – sole trader, partnership, limited company and so on.
This information is a quick summary (and does not constitute legal advice!) so to find out the exact requirements that apply to you, go to the gov.uk website.
A company must provide:
The company’s name on all company documents, publicity and letters.
On business letters, order forms and websites, you must show:
- the company’s registered number
- its registered office address
- where the company is registered (England and Wales, Scotland or Northern Ireland)
- the fact that it’s a limited company (usually by spelling out the company’s full name including ‘Limited’ or ‘Ltd’)
If you want to include directors’ names, you must list all of them.
Invoices should include:
- a unique identification number
- your company name, address and contact information
- the company name and address of the customer you’re invoicing
- a clear description of what you’re charging for
- the date the goods or service were provided (supply date)
- the date of the invoice
- the amount(s) being charged
- VAT amount if applicable
- the total amount owed
-
If your company is a limited company, you must include the full company name as it appears on the certificate of incorporation.
If you decide to put names of your directors on your invoices, you must include the names of all directors.