Legal requirements for business stationery
You legally must include certain details such as VAT numbers on invoices and registered addresses on business stationery.
You should include the following on your business stationery:
- business name
- business address
- contact number
- fax number (if you have one)
- email address
- website address
Legal requirements for different types of businesses
If you're a sole trader operating under your own name, you should include your name and address on all business stationery. However, if you choose something other than your own name for the business, you must include your own name and the business address on all business letters, orders and receipts.
Partnerships must state on letters, orders, invoices and receipts:
- the names of all partners (or alternatively indicate where a list of partners may be inspected)
- the address of the principal office
Limited companies must show on letters and order forms (paper and electronic versions):
- the name of the company
- the place of registration
- the company registration number
- the address of the registered office
- the address of its place of business (if different)
If the company is being wound up this fact must also be stated. There is no need to list the names of the company directors, but if you choose to include them, you must list the names of all directors.
Limited companies' invoices must show at least the company name. A limited company that is exempt from using the word 'limited' in its name must state the fact that it is a limited company.
Additional information to have printed on invoices
If you are registered for VAT, your invoices must state your VAT registration number.
Include your banking details on invoices to aid quicker payment through BACS or online banking. List the account name, account number and sort code.
You could also print your payment terms, and any other relevant terms and conditions.