- Register beneficial owners (RBO) — within five months of incorporation.
- Register for corporation tax with Revenue through ROS eRegistration — you'll get a tax reference for the company.
- Register for VAT if turnover will exceed the thresholds (at the time of writing €42,500 for services / €85,000 for goods) — or voluntarily to reclaim VAT on set-up costs.
- Register as an employer (PREM) before paying anyone, including yourself as a director on payroll.
- Open a business bank account in the company's name — never mix company and personal money.
- Decide how you'll take payments — invoicing, payment links, online checkout or a card terminal. Rates and set-up support for new businesses differ a lot between providers, so compare.
- Get insurance — public liability, professional indemnity or employer's liability depending on your trade.
- Diary your first annual return (B1) — due six months after incorporation, then yearly. Late filing brings penalties and can cost you audit exemption.
- Keep statutory registers — members, directors and secretaries, minutes of meetings.
Most of our partner firms carry on as your accountant after formation, so nothing slips. Find one in your county.
Frequently asked questions
When is the first annual return due for a new Irish company?
The first annual return date is six months after incorporation. After that, the annual return is due each year.
Do I need to register for VAT straight away?
Only if your turnover will exceed the VAT thresholds, but many new companies register voluntarily so they can reclaim VAT on start-up purchases. Ask your accountant.