Sole Trader v Limited Company? What are the differences and why should I register as a limited company?

Limited Company or Sole Trader

by Andrew Lambe, 28th February 2012. (Updated 11th September 2021)

The million-dollar question faced by Irish residents in a start-up scenario is, “Should I form a Limited Company or Sole Trader?”

The answer depends on numerous factors such as the type of business you wish to carry out, whether you’re still going to be in other employment, projected turnover, whether you have investors now or in future, whether you want to put profits into a pension, etc.

The best advice we can give is to talk to an Accountant or Tax Advisor. Preferably a good one! A good Accountant will evaluate your business and give you the pros and cons of your type of business. If you want us to put you in touch with a good Accountant in your area please don’t hesitate to contact us. We have a network of contacts around the country whom we work with.

What is the Difference Between a Limited Company and Sole Trader?

A Limited Company and Sole Trader are two distinct business structures. The main difference between the two options is that an Irish Limited Company is a separate legal entity from the individuals involved (Directors and Shareholders). A Limited Company needs to file Annual Returns with the Companies Office and there is more compliance and red tape, however, they are generally thought to be the most tax-efficient. For example, Company Directors can put profits into their pensions virtually tax-free (within reason of course!)

If you register as a Sole Trader or a Partnership you will need to register a Business Name with the CRO if you are carrying out business under a name other than your own e.g. ‘John Smith Carpentry’ as opposed to just ‘John Smith’. Legally and financially speaking you and your sole trader business are the same person, so you are liable for the debts of the business. Unlike, a Limited Company where owners or shareholders are protected by ‘limited liability’.

Advantages of a limited company:

  • Limited liability. This means that the liability of the shareholders is limited to the amount paid for shares. This can only be changed if Directors have traded fraudulently or negligently, or if they continue to trade when the company has been struck-off.
  • Low corporation tax. The rate of corporate tax in Ireland is only 12.5%
  • The business is a separate legal entity from the people involved (Directors & shareholders)
  • The company name is protected. Nobody else can use the name as a limited company name.
  • Excellent tax breaks for Directors on company pensions.
  • Business can appear more credible when bidding for tenders, signing contracts, etc.
  • Clear and defined ownership and duties.

Disadvantages of a Limited Company:

  • Compliance. there is more compliance necessary with a limited company. Annual Returns have to be filed with the CRO, etc.
  • There are higher costs to open and close the business.

Advantages of Sole Trader/Partnership:

  • Simple and cheap to register and maintain
  • Minimal cost to close the business if required
  • No annual returns to file with CRO

Disadvantages of a Sole Trader/Partnership:

  • No Limited liability. No limit on personal liability for the debts of the business
  • Profit is taxed at personal tax rates (up to 52%) instead of corporation tax at 12.5%.
  • Limited scope to avail of pension tax breaks and executive pensions
  • Not be suitable for certain contractors who need a limited company
  • May not be considered as credible as a limited company when tendering for contracts, etc.

Should you wish to discuss how to register your business with Company Bureau, please Contact Us today or call + 353 (0)1 6461625. If you already know that you want to register a Limited Company or Sole Trader you can order either option on our website:

Best of luck with your venture and congratulations!

 

Disclaimer This article is for guidance purposes only. It does not constitute legal or professional advice. No liability is accepted by Company Bureau for any action taken or not taken in reliance on the information set out in this article. Professional or legal advice should be obtained before taking or refraining from any action as a result of this article. Any and all information is subject to change.