Closing a business is a significant decision that requires careful consideration of various factors including the company’s financial health, legal obligations and future plans of the stakeholders.
This guide aims to provide small business owners and company directors with a clear understanding of the available options for closing a business, highlighting the benefits and suitability of each approach.

Understanding your options when closing a business

The process of closing a business varies depending on whether the company is solvent (able to pay its debts) or insolvent (unable to pay its debts). It is crucial to assess the financial status of your business to determine the most appropriate closure method.

Solvent business closure options

If your business is solvent, you have two primary options –

1. Applying to strike off the company

• What is it? – This involves applying to have the company removed from the Companies Register, effectively dissolving it.
• Benefits – It is a straightforward and cost-effective method of closing a business.
• When it is suitable? – Ideal for companies that have ceased trading and have no outstanding debts or liabilities.
• Considerations – Before applying, ensure all company assets are distributed and necessary parties (e.g. HMRC, employees) are informed.

2. Members Voluntary Liquidation (MVL)

• What is it? – A formal process where the company’s assets are liquidated and the proceeds are distributed among shareholders.
• Benefits – Can be tax-efficient, especially for companies with significant retained profits, as distributions may qualify for capital gains tax treatment.
• When it is suitable? – Appropriate for solvent companies looking to unlock retained profits in a tax-efficient manner.
• Considerations – Requires the appointment of a licensed insolvency practitioner to oversee the process.
• Example – A consultancy firm with substantial retained earnings opted for an MVL to distribute profits to shareholders efficiently.

Insolvent business closure options

For businesses unable to meet their financial obligations, the following options are available –

1. Creditors’ Voluntary Liquidation (CVL)

• What is it? – A process initiated by the company’s directors and shareholders to voluntarily liquidate an insolvent company.
• Benefits – Allows directors to take control of the liquidation process, potentially minimising personal liability and demonstrating responsible management.
• When it is suitable? – When a company is insolvent and cannot continue operations, and the directors wish to wind up the company’s affairs in an orderly manner.
• Considerations – Requires the appointment of a licensed insolvency practitioner to manage the liquidation.
• Example – A retail business facing declining sales and mounting debts chose a CVL to address creditor claims and close the business responsibly.

2. Company Administration

• What is it? – A legal process where an appointed administrator takes control of the company to restructure or sell its assets to repay creditors.
• Benefits – Provides legal protection from creditor actions, allowing time to restructure or sell the business as a going concern.
• When it is suitable? – When a company is insolvent but has a viable core business that could be saved through restructuring or sale.
• Considerations – The process can be complex and may not always result in the company’s survival.
• Example – A manufacturing company with cash flow issues entered administration, leading to a successful sale and preservation of jobs.

3. Company voluntary arrangement (CVA)

• What is it? – A formal agreement between an insolvent company and its creditors to repay a portion of its debts over time while continuing operations.
• Benefits – Allows the company to continue trading, potentially preserving jobs and business relationships.
• When it is suitable? – When a company is experiencing temporary financial difficulties but has a realistic prospect of recovery.
• Considerations – Requires approval from a majority of creditors and strict adherence to the agreed repayment plan.
• Example – A restaurant chain facing short-term cash flow problems implemented a CVA to restructure debts and continue operations.

MVLs for limited company contractors affected by IR35 legislation

The introduction of IR35 legislation has significantly impacted limited company contractors, leading many to consider closing their companies. An MVL can be an effective solution in this scenario.

• Benefits – Allows contractors to extract remaining profits in a tax-efficient manner, potentially benefiting from business asset disposal relief (formerly entrepreneurs’ relief).
• When it is suitable? – For contractors who have ceased trading due to IR35 reforms and wish to close their limited company.
• Considerations – Engaging a licensed insolvency practitioner is essential to navigate the MVL process and ensure compliance with tax regulations.
• Example – A freelance IT consultant affected by IR35 reforms opted for an MVL to close their limited company, resulting in a tax-efficient distribution of remaining funds.

Seek professional advice when closing a business

Navigating the complexities of closing a business requires professional guidance. Tom Fox, Head of Insolvency at Umbrella.UK Insolvency, emphasises – “The business landscape in the UK is undergoing a significant transformation, with closures now outpacing new establishments. This trend raises concerns about the overall economic health and resilience of businesses in various sectors.”

Engaging with experienced Insolvency Practitioners ensures that the chosen closure method aligns with your specific circumstances and complies with legal requirements.

Contact us for professional help closing a business

Closing a business is a multifaceted process that demands careful planning and informed decision-making. By understanding the available options and seeking professional advice, small business owners and company directors can navigate this challenging period effectively, ensuring compliance and minimising potential liabilities.

Umbrella.UK Insolvency is based in Wilmslow in Cheshire but operates nationally, offering a free initial consultation to help business owners explore their options. Their team of experienced insolvency practitioners provides expert advice tailored to individual circumstances, ensuring the best possible outcome for those closing a business.

We offer business owners a FREE, confidential and non judgmental initial consultation.

*We don’t charge for an initial consultation, but it may lead to an insolvency solution where our pre-appointment costs are reimbursed as part of the fee structure that creditors approve.

If you are unsure what situation your business is in, don’t worry!
Call our confidential expert advisers on 0800 611 8888