What are articles of association?

Definition of articles of association

Articles of association are the written rules about running a limited company that are agreed by the shareholders or guarantors, directors and the company secretary. You must submit the document alongside a memorandum of association when registering a limited company.

What should be included in the articles of association?

Articles of association outline the managerial and administrative structure of the company. The document often includes information about shareholder rights, the appointment of directors and the company’s general meetings.

How to create articles of association

To create articles of association for your limited company you can either:

• use standard articles, known as ‘model articles’, which you can find on from HMRC’s website
• write your own and upload or send them when you register your company with Companies House

Find out more about how to set up a limited company in our step-by-step guide.