How do I register my business?
You can do it yourself or use our cost-effective business registration services.
What is Registrar General?
Registrar General is a statutory body solely responsible for the registrar of business in Ghana. It is mandatory that companies register with Registrar General and as such any change henceforth will be on their records.
Why should I use GHStartups.com to setup my business or company?
GHStartups.com has years of experience in company formation and our seasoned experts have a network of service providers that remains unparalleled. This Enables us to offer you competitive prices. Our company goes above and beyond to provide you the best service with dedicated account managers and expert advice.
Each client receives a tailor-made service, aligned with the latest jurisdiction laws. In addition, we also provide addition services such as bank account opening, web hosting, web design, accounting services and many other business support services.
How can I settle my business / company fees?
GHStartups.com offers multiple payment options to suit your individual needs. Mobile Money Payment, Perfect Money, Bitcoin are all accepted.
What is a Sole Proprietor business?
This is a one-person business registration structure.
What is a limited company?
A limited company is a lawful body produced by its incorporation with Registrar General. The responsibility of the participants or clients to the firm is restricted by just what has actually been spent or insured to the business. Limited company could be limited by shares or guarantee. A company restricted by shares is without doubt one of the most standard sorts of business in Ghana.
What is a Company Limited By Guarantee?
A company limited by guarantee does not have investors, yet as an alternative has participants that function as guarantors. This sort of firm is mainly for the functions of charitable organisations.
What is an LLP?
LLP represents the Limited Liability Partnership that resembles regular company collaboration with the one distinction being that the individual liability of the companions is restricted.
What sorts of companies can be formed on your website?
GHStartups.com allows you to form Sole Proprietor, Ltd Company, LLP's, and Limited by Guarantee companies
What is Certificate of Incorporation?
The Certificate of Incorporation is the primary record which demonstrates a company exists and has been enrolled under the necessities of the Companies Act 2019. It incorporates the organisation name and selection, the date of its incorporation, whether it is a restricted or unrestricted business, and where the organisation’s registered office is positioned.
This record is often needed by financial institutions when opening up a business bank account.
What business names are appropriate?
The majority of names are appropriate to Registrar General when developing a firm; nevertheless, there are a couple of exemptions:
The name can't be the same or very much alike to a name officially being utilised. It can't be viewed as hostile The words "limited" or "unlimited" can't be utilised unless toward the end of the name. Words about the nature of 'group' need supplying the presence of relevant business, whilst usage of words 'international' should be verified to confirm the business in at the very least two various nations.
Limited or LTD?
All registered up limited firms call for the suffix limited or LTD after the business name. Both imply specifically the exact same and also the selection which one to utilise refers individual inclination.
All enlisted restricted organisation obliges the addition Limited of LTD after the company name. Both mean precisely the same and the decision of which one to utilize is a matter of individual inclination
What is a business director?
Directors are designated to run a business.
Who can be a business's director?
Just about anybody can be a chief of a restricted organisation, giving they are matured 18 or over, have not been proclaimed bankrupt and are not lawfully excluded from being an executive.
What number of directors do I have to start an organisation?
The Companies Act 2019 obliges at least 2 executive for restricted organisations. There is no restriction to the quantity of directors allowed.
Do I need to reside in Ghana to be a director?
No, you do not need to be a Ghana individual to be a director of a limited company.
Can a director be an additional company?
A corporate body or organisation can be a director of another organisation, however, it can't be the main executive – there must be no less than one other director who is a "characteristic" individual.
Does a director need to be an investor in the business?
Directors are not needed to claim any shares in the organisation they run, yet they are allowed to. Additionally, a shareholder is not needed to be an executive of a business; however they are permitted to be.
What are the major obligations of a director?
Directors are accountable for running a business legally and also attempting to make it effective. They need to comply with business regulations, choose for the firm's advantage, keep documents, and documents precise accounts and also return on schedule.
Can I designate a new director for the formation of a company?
Shareholders can add another executive to a company whenever after arrangement. This should be possible using the web through our administrator portal (for nothing out of pocket) and the data is sent to Registrar General for regard.
Can I expel a director from my firm?
A director could be expelled from a business by a bulk ballot from the investors, or invalidated by a court or controlling physical body. If the regards to the director's written agreement or an investors' Company's Secretary.
What is a company secretary?
A company secretary is by and large named to take care of a percentage of the executives' obligations, for example, keeping up and documenting statutory registers and organisation records.
One director of a small company with 2 directors can still act as the company secretary.
Who can be a company secretary?
Any individual or organisation can be a company secretary, and no formal capabilities are needed for secretaries of privately owned businesses. Nonetheless, the secretary can't be the organisation examiner or an 'undischarged bankrupt'.
Do I require a company secretary to enroll an organisation?
The articles of affiliation unequivocally oblige the organisation to have one.
Can a director likewise be the company secretary?
An executive like the director may likewise be the company secretary. Since 2020, the Companies Act 2019 grants a solitary individual to hold each of the three positions of executive, shareholder and business secretary, without the necessity for a moment individual.
Why should I have a business secretary?
A company secretary can be helpful to decrease the workload of the chiefs.
What are the obligations of a company secretary?
As an organisation officer selected to tackle a portion of the obligations of the chiefs, the typical obligations of a business secretary include:
• Finishing and documenting the Annual Return inside of the given due date.
• Documenting chiefs' reports, money related articulations and inspector reports.
• Guaranteeing the supervision of every authoritative archive.
• Reporting any huge organisation changes to Registrar General
• Organising any gatherings of the executives and shareholders, and guaranteeing the powerful organisation and moment keeping of these gatherings.
In spite of the fact that a company secretary may assume liability for these obligations, the executives remain legitimately in charge of the legitimate running of the organisation and the readiness and recording of all profits and reports.
Could I select or evacuate a company secretary after the development process?
Yes, a company secretary can be included or uprooted whenever, however, these progressions must be documented with Registrar General. Changes to the business secretary position can be completed through our customer administrator entrance whenever after joining the organisation.
What is a Registered Office Address?
The location you wish to use as your enlisted office address. This can be your private location, notwithstanding you may wish to utilise one of our locations to secure your place of residence as this data will be set on open record.
All limited businesses are lawfully needed to have a registered office address. All legal mail will certainly be sent out right here and the address information will certainly be presented in a public document.
What specific director information is needed?
Full Name, Date of Birth, Occupation,Nationality, Residential Address, Contact Address.
Investor / Shareholder Information needed?
Full Name, Contact Address.
For how long does the business registration take?
It varies.
Why does my business need to be signed up with Registrar General?
Registrar General is the registrar of firms in Ghana. It is a lawful need for all minimal firms to sign up with Registrar General.
Do I need to be a Ghana individual to develop a business?
No you don't, a Ghana company must have a Ghana registered office address which we can provide.
How and when do I obtain my brand-new business papers?
As quickly as Registrar General accepts your business enrollment,you will certainly obtain digital duplicates of your Certification of Incorporation, Record and also the Articles of Association, and also Share Certifications for all investors. Printed and expected duplicates of these files will be published to you within 24 Hours.
The amount it will cost you to start a business?
You can form a business for as little as GHs60.00. This consists of Registrar General.
What is the Record and also the Articles of Association?
The record of organisation is a plan having the specifics of a business's initial participant (investors or guarantors) and also their objective to develop a firm.
The write-ups of association suggest the interior administration, guidelines, and also policies of a firm as well as its obligation. With each other, these plans develop a firm constitution.
Can I submit my very own Record of Organisation as well as the Articles of Association?
Many firms make use of the typical version records offered in our buildup bundles, nevertheless, if you need to utilise your very own record and posts, kindly email our assistance team. We will certainly supply you with a connect formation packages to our development bundle 'with sophisticated choices' permitting you to publish your very own plans and also utilise a number of share courses.
Do I need to pay the added costs for Registrar General?
No, if you register your business via GHStartups.com.
What occurs if my application is turned down by Registrar General?
Sometimes this might occur and also it is normally as a result of an inappropriate firm name or insufficient information on your application. Do not fret, these problems could be quickly fixed and you will certainly be offered the chance to re-submit your online application with the appropriate specifics or upload assisting plans and also proof. Our customer assistance group is additionally accessible to lead you via this procedure as well as offer help.
What is an Investor?
An investor is the proprietor of a firm restricted by shares. If there is even more than one investor, each investor has an item of the business and also has a say in exactly how the firm is run by its supervisors. Investors are qualified to get a share of any sort of business earnings.
Who can be an investor / shareholder?
Any person could be an investor, consisting of one more company (referred to as a business investor).
The amount of investors needed to develop a business?
At the very least, one investor or shareholder is needed to develop a business limited by shares.
What is the distinction between an investor and also a director?
Investors / Shareholders have the business and also have a tendency simply to include themselves in significant options that take place rarely. Directors take care of and run the firm, handling day-to-day obligations and decision-making.
Can an investor additionally be a director?
There are no limitations to stop a person taking up both parts.
What are shares?
Shares are systems of possession. The portion of possession relies on the variety of shares provided. So, as an example: if a firm has 2 shares of equivalent worth, each share stands for 50 % possession; 4 shares of equivalent worth stand for 25 % possession, and more etc.
The amount of shares a company is permitted to have?
A company limited by shares is needed to provide at the very least one share. There is not any type of constraint to the optimum variety of shares a company could provide.
What sort of shares can I have?
Many businesses keep having normal shares which sell equivalent worth and also voting rights for every investor. It is feasible to release various kinds (courses) of shares, and the 3 most typical ones are preference, cumulative and redeemable.
Can I develop a business with several share classes with GHStartups.com?
Yes. We offer a limited business Development bundle 'with innovative alternatives' most generally utilised by financial advisors, lawyers and buildup brokers that want to define several share classes and also publish their very own record as well as the posts of the organisation. Kindly email our assistance group and we will connect you to this bundle.
What is the worth of a share?
A share has small worth and also a real (market) worth. The small worth is the quantity an investor spends for the share, or needs to pay if the company is being wound up. The real worth could differ from this quantity. Commonly, a share will certainly have a small worth of GHs1.
What addresses do firm directors need to supply?
A director is needed to give a property address and also a service address.
What is a service address?
The service address is the main call address for every specific firm director, where any type of legal mail, notifications, or business-related interaction for specific directors will certainly be sent out.
Do i need to provide ID?
Yes you will be asked to provide suitable photographic ID and proof of address ID. This will be requested with a guide on what is required after payment. If you require further information you can contact customer service for the latest requirements.
Can I utilise my domestic address as the service address?
Yes. Numerous business directors provide a solitary address for usage as their domestic address as well as service address. There is no need to give 2 different addresses; nonetheless, utilising your house address for both will certainly cause a loss of discretion since the service address is provided on a public document to permit individuals to call you on all concerns associating with the business.
Can the service address be used as the registered office address?
Yes, the very same address could be utilised as the the directors' service address and also the registered office address.
Can the service address be used as my investing (company) address?
Yes, as long as it is a reliable address where you could be got in touch with by Registrar General and also any type of Third party pertaining to company concerns.
Does a service address need to be in Ghana?
There is no demand for the service address to be in Ghana. The solution address needs to be an efficient address and this could be in Ghana or overseas.
What's the distinction between a service address and a business/trading address?
A service address is a main address for each and every firm supervisor and is noted on the general public register. The business/trading address is commonly where a business performs its company and it is the address offered to customers, providers and various other company calls.
What is a business limited by shares?
A business limited by shares is possessed by investors, and the restriction of the investors' responsibility is restricted to the worth of the shares absorbed by the firm. Consequently the investors' individual properties are secured in case of the business coming to be bankrupt.
What are the advantages of companies limited by shares?
The primary benefit of a limited business is the restricted responsibility of its participants (proprietors) which have the ability to discuss business earnings without individual responsibility for firm financial obligations. Furthermore, there are lots of tax advantages offered for a minimal business and also its participants.
What is the distinction between a limited company and also a single investor?
By developing a limited business, the participants (investors) could secure their individual possessions from being utilised to pay any type of firm financial obligations. On the other hand, a single investor is directly accountable for any kind of financial obligations the business might owe, due to the fact that there is no difference in between business cash and also individual’s cash.
What are the yearly needs of a limited company?
Every year a company limited by shares is needed to send an Annual Return and also yearly accounts to Registrar General. The Annual Return is a picture of a business's existing specifics of the Annual Return day as well as yearly accounts consist of the information about a business's monetary task. A minimal business is additionally called for to submit a yearly income tax return with GRA.
What is the distinction between limited by guarantee and also limited by shares?
A company limited by guarantee is generally a charitable organisation with guarantors as opposed to investors. The participants assure to add an amount of cash in case of the firm being folded up, and a result they are responsible for business financial obligations as much as the worth of the warranties as opposed to the worth of the shares. Unlike a firm restricted by shares, revenues are not typically dispersed to its participants.
What are guarantors of a company limited by guarantee?
Guarantors are people or various other companies that give a money guarantee for a limited business as opposed to holding shares. Usually, guarantors do not take any kind of make money from the business.
Who can be a guarantor of a company limited by guarantee?
Any kind of individual or an additional business could be a guarantor.
How many people do I need to develop a limited by guarantee business?
Registrar General calls for at the very least, one guarantor as well as one director to develop a company limited by guarantee. Both duties could be filled up by an individual or several people and also companies.
Can a guarantor of a company limited by guarantee likewise be a director?
Yes, someone could work as a guarantor as well as a director of a firm limited by guarantee, supplying they are aged 18 or over or invalidated from holding a directorship part.
Who would certainly develop a business limited by guarantee?
Charitable organisations, clubs and charities would certainly develop a firm limited by guarantee, as an example, sporting activity clubs and also organisations, institutions, employees' cooperatives, student unions, and so on.
Are the revenues paid to the guarantors of companies limited by guarantee?
No, in many cases the guarantors of companies limited by guarantee are not qualified to obtain any type of benefit from the business and also such limitations will certainly be clearly specified in the firm's write-ups. Any sort of funds produced will certainly be returned right into business as well as made use of for the innovation as well as promo of the business's goal. Any sort of firm that does disperse its earnings to participants will certainly surrender any type of right to philanthropic condition.
Do I need to include of 'Limited' or 'Ltd' at the end of my limited by guarantee company name?
A business limited by guarantee will simply be excused from utilising 'Limited' or 'Ltd' if the business's purposes are not-for-profit and also exclusively concentrated on the promo of business, fine art, scientific research, education and learning, faith, charity or any sort of occupation.
What is a Limited Liability Partnership?
A limited liability partnership is a sort of company framework with lots of functions of a conventional collaboration yet it already exists as a different legal services,company responsible for its very own financial obligations, and also provides minimal individual duty to its participants (companions).
The amount of individuals allowed for developing an LLP?
A minimum of 2 participants is called in to develop an LLP. There is no optimum variety of participants for an LLP.
What are the advantages of an LLP framework?
LLPs supply a variety of advantages for profit-making companies, such as minimal responsibility for company financial obligations, a versatile administration framework as well as circulation of earnings, and also each participant pays the earnings tax obligation on their earnings instead of company tax obligation.
What is the distinction between an LLP and also a company limited by shares (LLC)?
LLPs resemble limited firms since they go through facets of business regulation and also supply minimal responsibility to their participants, however,they additionally provide the perks of a typical collaboration, such as the earnings tax return obligation instead of company tax obligation, and also they are a lot more versatile in pertains to inner framework, circulation of revenues and also participants' civil liberties. Unlike a business, an LLP does not have a record or write-ups of the organisation.
Who would develop an LLP?
An LLP framework is made use of by specialists that usually establish as collaboration, such as medical professionals, lawyers, as well as financial advisors, yet which need the defense that restricted obligatory supplies.
How is an LLP taxed?
An LLP is dealt with as a normal collaboration for tax obligation objectives. The participants pay revenue tax obligation on their share of earnings. The collaboration itself is immune for tax return. Many companions will establish themselves up as independent and also register for self-assessment earnings tax obligation.
Can one more business be a partnership?
Yes, a company physical body could be a partnership of an LLP; however any type of revenues, it makes will certainly be accountable for company tax return instead of earnings tax return.
What are the yearly demands of an LLP?
An LLP goes through the very same regulations as a limited company and need to send out a Yearly Return as well as yearly accounts to Registrar General. A minimum of 2 participants have to be called as 'marked participants' as well as the duty of declaring yearly accounts and also returns. Specific participants accountable for paying revenue tax return on their share of business revenues - the collaboration itself is immune for company tax returns or other tax obligations.
What is a Partnership Arrangement?
This is a written contract in between companions specifying their civil liberties, duties and also share of revenues. It is not a legal services need for an LLP to have such a contract, yet when it comes to the department of earnings and also civil liberties, it is recommended to actually have one prepared.
Can I develop an LLP with you?
Yes.
When will I get my business files and how?
When verification of incorporation from Registrar General, we will certainly email digital (PDF) duplicates of all business files for you. Paper duplicates of these plans will certainly be uploaded for you within 24-hours.
Where should I maintain my business records?
Your business records are vital and also you will have them available on a variety of celebrations. You need to maintain the paper duplicates in a protected area on the facilities of your organisation. The directors are accountable for the safekeeping of all business papers.
Can I make adjustments to my business after start-up?
You can make modifications to your firm any time after incorporation. Any kind of adjustments needs to be stated to Registrar General and also they can be accomplished by utilising our on-line admin website or using Web Filing on the Registrar General web site.
Can I alter my registered office address?
You could transform your registered office address if it continues to be in the very same nation where your business operates. You could alter your registered office address by utilising our on the internet admin site or using Web Filing on the Business Property site.
Do I have to tell Registrar General of any type of adjustments made?
Yes, you should notify Registrar General when any kind of modifications are made to your business (e.g. modifications to registered office address), and where pertinent, you should likewise inform GRA.
How much will it cost to alter business details?
Modifications could be made cost-free, of course using our on the internet admin website. A lot of adjustments do not sustain a declaring charge from Registrar General, with the exemption of company name modifications.
Can I move shares or release even more shares?
The Shares might be moved and also the share funding could likewise be boosted with even more shares provided, at any moment after incorporation (pending authorisation from the firm's supervisors). A business is not limited to the quantity of shares it could provide.
How do I shut my business?
A business could be closed a variety of means. If your firm is bankrupt, you might request to strike off the Registrar General or you could begin a participants' volunteer liquidation. If a business is financially troubled it could be nearby the lenders' volunteer liquidation procedure.
Do I need to show my business name anywhere?
Unless your business is inactive (non-active), the company name needs to be shown in a variety of locations whatsoever times, such as:
The authorised workplace address as well as any sort of place where business runs. All firm letters, digital document, billings, and also notifications. All business web sites as well as promotion files.
Do I require a company checking account?
Yes, all limited businesses are needed to have a different company savings account so that all funds are completely deducible. A different account permits clear difference in between business funds as well as the individual financial resources of its participants.
What is an Annual Return?
An annual return is a picture of a business's present signed up information on the Annual Return day. An Annual Return ought to not be confused with a firm's yearly account.
What information do I have to include in my Annual Return?
An Annual Return must explain a business's company tasks as well as consist of supervisors' specifics, assistant specifics (if relevant), the licensed workplace address, and also information for all investors and also share funding.
When do I need to submit the Annual Return?
It is a lawful need to submit your Annual Return to Registrar General on the anniversary of the business's incorporation.
What is the made-up-to day?
This is the day at which all details consisted of in the Annual Return needs to be right. The made-up-to day will certainly be the wedding anniversary of the firm's incorporation.
What is the distinction between a Annual Return and also yearly accounts?
The Annual Return plans all present licensed information of a business and also its participants, whereas the yearly accounts are the monetary accounts of a firm. Both need to be precise as well as submitted with Registrar General on a yearly basis.
How do I submit my Annual Return?
Your Annual Return could be prepared and also submitted online by means of our on the internet Admin Site or using Web Filing on the Registrar General internet site.
If you would prefer GHStartups.com to get ready as well as submit your Yearly Return, this solution could be bought as a component of the All Comprehensive package deal or as an added solution with any one of our various other buildup bundles.
What occurs if an Annual Return is late?
There are no automated declaring fines for the late declaring of a Annual Return, these simply put on late yearly accounts, nevertheless, failing to submit a Annual Return on schedule is a criminal misdemeanour and also the firm might be prosecuted and the supervisors might experience a fine or be invalidated from their duty. Failing to supply a Annual Return will certainly most likely lead to Registrar General taking actions to strike off the business.
Will my firm need to pay corporate tax?
Your firm will certainly be accountable for corporate tax on any type of tax earnings it produces.
Do I have to register my business for tax return?
When your brand-new business is signed up with Registrar General, GRA will certainly be instantly notified of its presence, so there is no need to call them on your own. GRA will send your firm Unique Taxpayer Reference to the signed up registered office address, in addition to info as well as advice on establishing your business's online make up income tax return and also the corporate tax.
What information is called for by GRA?
When you get your business's unique Taxpayer reference, you will be requested to supply the following to GRA:
When your firm began investing. Business name as well as signed up selection. Key company address where investing occurs. The nature of your company. The made-up-to day of your yearly accounts.
These details ought to be sent out to GRA within 3 months of any sort of company task and also it will certainly be utilised to identify when your business must pay company tax return.
How much corporate tax do I have to pay?
The quantity of the corporation tax payable by a firm differs depending upon the degree of revenue made.
When do I need to pay a corporate tax return?
Corporate tax is payable prior to the organisation’s income tax return schedules, so do make certain you do not mix up both days! GRA will certainly allow you to recognise when your tax return schedule are, so as well as when you must submit your income tax return.
Corporate tax needs to be paid digitally and also within 9 months as well as 1 day of completion of the firm's corporate tax obligation 'bookkeeping duration'-- this will generally be the completion of your business's fiscal year.
What is the 'typical due day'?
This is the target date for paying corporate tax which will be within 9 months and 1 day of completion of a business's corporation tax 'bookkeeping duration'-- this is normally a completion of a business's fiscal year.
When is my tax return due?
A business tax return should be submitted with GRA within a year of the completion of its corporate tax return bookkeeping duration, offering you lots of time to obtain it finished.
Who is accountable for determining the quantity of corporate tax due?
A company limited by shares is called upon to exercise its very own company tax return, unlike various other kinds of companies. The supervisors are lawfully in charge of guaranteeing a business pays the proper quantity of tax return within the offered target date. Lots of business opts to designate an accounting professional to make certain it is finished as well as submitted properly.
Do I make use of an accounting professional?
It is not a legal services demand to make use of a financial advisor, yet it could be very difficult exercising a business tax return if you have no previous encounter. Therefore, it would certainly be suggested to speak with an accounting professional or corporate tax expert to help you with these critical concerns.
My company is inactive-- do I still need to pay corporate tax as well as submit an income tax return?
If your business is presently not operating, investing or continuing company tasks, GRA considers it inactive for corporate tax return objectives. In these circumstances, your business is immune for corporation tax and not needed to submit a business tax return.
In many cases, an inactive firm might still be responsible for corporate tax if GRA sends out a 'Notification to supply a business tax return'. It could put on a recently operating that comes to be inactive throughout its corporation tax bookkeeping duration. If this occurs, you just submit a tax return within a year of the completion of your tax return duration.
A company limited by shares that is inactive ought to notify GRA when it does end up operating fully. You have 3 months from the beginning of the tax return accountancy duration to let GRA recognise it is active, and also this could be conveniently done utilising GRA's on-line enrollment solution or by offering the pertinent details in creating.
What is VAT?
Value Added Tax is included to the online sales of products and also services and is deliberately put on the customer bill. It is normally billed on many company purchases in Ghana; however, it could likewise have an effect on products imported from various other nations.
Do I register my business for VAT?
A company limited by shares will be needed to sign up for VAT if its items and solutions are VAT taxed ('taxed materials') and the turnover for the previous twelve month has actually surpassed the present VAT limit of GHs. Voluntary VAT enrollment is likewise recommended if you anticipate your turn over to go beyond the limit quantity in the present year.
Could I register my firm for VAT willingly?
Yes, you could go with voluntary VAT enrollment if you anticipate your turnover to surpass the VAT limit. By doing this, you might conserve a large amount of time that could or else be lost on transforming costs as well as accountancy systems.
What are the benefits of VAT enrollment?
VAT enrollment supplies a variety of perks for a business. A firm can enhance its cash flow by asking for VAT on online sales and also asserting it back on acquisitions. A VAT number is additionally useful when taking into consideration working with bigger businesses - it could give your business the look of being bigger than it is, which would really attract various other businesses as well as organisations. Lots of companies mandate that any type of company they collaborate with will certainly need a VAT selection.
After VAT enrolment, when should I begin demanding VAT on items and also services?
You need to begin billing VAT on anything you offer from the day you sign up for VAT with GRA, not the day you obtain your certification. You need to increase billings for all online sales made after enrollment, and also after the invoice of your certification. You could include your number to the billings, the online sales as well as quantity and also re-issue the upgraded billings to your clients.
When is the VAT Return due?
VAT signed up businesses will generally be called for to send quarterly VAT Returns revealing the VAT demanded on online sales, or output tax, and also paid on acquisitions, otherwise known as input tax. If the output quantity goes beyond the input, a business needs to send out the distinction to GRA with the VAT Return. Likewise, if the input is above a firm's output, the distinction could be requested back from GRA.
Are GHStartup Loans Grants?
No. A grant is a non-repayable fund provided by an individual or an organisation for a particular purpose, whereas a GHStartup Loan must be repaid in full over an agreed term of one to five years.
What types of financing is provided by GHStartups?
We directly provide funding for your startup or new business, including but not limited to: Debt Financing (Loans), Equity Financing (Venture Capital, Angel Investing, Classic Equity, Equity Variants), Business Grants, etc.
Learn more.
How much can I borrow?
Each business can borrow between GHs500 and GHs20m at any one time.
Additionally, if you successfully apply for a Startup Loan then after you have made six full repayments you may be eligible to apply for additional finance for the same business in the form of a Topup Loan.
What is the average loan amount requested?
Our average loan size is between GHs3,000 and GHs100,000, but of course the final amount ultimately depends on the needs of business, the type of business model and how you intend to use the money.
Why do you charge interest on the loan?
We are a The DCANS Group-backed scheme so all interest is reinvested in the scheme, meaning even more businesses can benefit from this affordable finance and support. At a low rate of between 6% and 20% per annum, the interest is designed to be affordable compared to other mainstream lenders and the flexible loan term of one to five years gives our customers the ability to manage their monthly repayments in a way that makes most sense for them.
Check out our
Loan Calculator to figure out your potential monthly and total loan repayments.
Are there any upfront fees involved in applying for a Startup Loan?
No, there are no upfront fees involved in either applying for a startup loan or for the support we provide during and after the application process.
But, there is a 5% loan process fee charged and deducted from the loan amount being disbursed.
What is the difference between secured and unsecured loan?
A secured loan is one that requires a guarantor or an asset, for example a property (also known as collateral) to secure the loan. In the event that a secured loan cannot be repaid, the company issuing the loan may take possession of the property or call on the guarantor to satisfy the outstanding balance.
In contrast, unsecured loans – can be obtained without the use of a guarantor or collateral for the loan. However, please remember you are still contractually obligated to repay your Startup Loan, no matter what the circumstances. Failure to meet your monthly loan repayments may result in formal action being taken, and will detrimentally affect your credit file, so it’s important to talk to your Account Manager as soon as possible if you think you may encounter any difficulties.
You will find the details of your Account Manager on your loan agreement once your application has been approved.
Can I choose my loan term?
Yes, you can choose a loan term between one and five years depending on your affordability and preference. Please note, if you are in Ghana on a visa, you will need to repay your loan and all associated interest at least six months prior to your visa expiry date. Regardless of your final agreed loan term, you will be required to make monthly repayments. Use our
Loan Calculator to figure out what your potential monthly and total loan repayments would be based on different loan terms.
Are there any rules how I spend the money?
GHStartups Loans are business loans that are used to start a new business or grow an existing business that has been trading for less than 24 months. Your loan can be spent on a wide range of things related to your business, like equipment and stock, a premises, marketing and promotional expenses to name just a few. It’s important to note however that you must be able to describe your intentions for your loan within your
business plan and
cash flow forecast and explain how this will help you start and/or grow your business.
There are a few activities that cannot be funded with a GHStartups Loan, including debt repayment, training qualification and education programmes or investment opportunities that do not form part of an on-going sustainable business -
Prohibited Business. Please see our full eligibility criteria for more information on excluded business types and loan uses under the scheme.
How many Startup Loans can I apply for from GHStartups.com?
Every business can only apply for one GHStartups Loan, so if you own multiple business ventures you will only be able to access finance for one of them.
However, if after successfully securing a GHStartups Loan you later require additional funding in order to grow and develop that same business, you may be eligible to apply for a Second Loan. You would need to go through a new application process and must have made at least six months of full loan repayments prior to applying. In addition, your total outstanding loan balance cannot exceed GHs20,000 at any one time.
Please visit our page about Second Loans for more information on the full eligibility criteria and how to apply.
Will the GHStartups.com provide the loan to me directly?
Yes. GHStartups.com is a direct lender and not a broker.
How important is my credit score in qualifying for a loan?
Credit is just one of many factors that we look at when we work with business owners. If your credit isn’t well established or damaged, we can work to find strengths in your business or finances to make the loan possible.
We do have firm requirements on past due debt and bankruptcies and have credit score minimums in some areas, so please check our loan requirements to see if we are a good fit for you.
Does GHStartups.com offer services other than Loans?
Startups and new businesses choose to work with us for more reasons than just access to loans. Our competent and versatile staff will go the extra mile for you throughout your application process, the life of your loan and beyond.
We are a one-stop startup shop for startups.
What makes GHStartups.com different from other lending institutions?
GHStartups is dedicated solely to helping startups and small business owners succeed and communities thrive. We are often able to lend to startups and small business owners who have trouble finding loans elsewhere thanks to our creative underwriting and financing options and strategies, a process that looks at more than just credit score, and terms that are designed to best meet your needs.
What types of businesses GHStartups.com lend to?
GHStartups.com works with businesses in a variety of different industries such as construction, transportation, retail sales, landscaping, restaurants, professional services and more.
Will my startup business qualify?
GHStartups.com has worked with several start-up businesses across the country. Typically, our start-up loans require that you have an outside source of income (other than the business) to support the loan.
Also startups may be required to have a business plan with a 12-month cash flow projection. Check our loan requirements to learn about our specific start up loan prerequisites.
What is the application process like?
Once you submit your online application, we’ll be in touch within 2 business days to let you know that we have received your application. You’ll then be put in touch with a lending team member who will work with you one-on-one to assemble the strongest loan application possible. This will include documentation to confirm some of the information submitted in your application, as well as some other documents to help us understand your specific business situation as best we can.
What if I don't qualify?
If you don’t qualify for a loan with us at this time, we’ll give you the information you need to improve your business and financial situation so that you have an improved chance of qualifying on your next application. Typically, you’ll be eligible to reapply in three to six months.
Does the GHStartups.com form encrypt my information to keep it secure?
Yes. We use 256-bit encryption to keep your data as safe as possible.
How long will it take to get my funds?
There are many different kinds of small business financing options. The “time to funding” varies by type, partially because of how extensive the background check is.
In some cases you could have your money in two days. Other funding types can take as long as nine months. We will let you know how long you should expect to wait for your funding.
Are all types of businesses eligible for a GHStartups.com Loan?
GHStartups.com Loans are designed to be used to start a new business or grow an existing business that has been trading for less than 24 months.
While we can support most business types, there are a few that we are unable to support. Please visit our Prohibited Business page for a full list of all excluded business types.
Can I apply for a loan if I have poor credit?
Poor credit isn’t necessarily a barrier to getting a GHStartups.com Loan, however we do carry out a full credit check on applicants.
GHStartups.com is committed to lending responsibly and has to ensure that applicants will be able to repay the loan.
Am I eligible to apply if I’m purchasing an existing business?
Yes, you are still eligible to apply for a GHStartups.com Loan if you are purchasing an existing business, even if it has been trading for more than two years under different ownership, provided you have personally not owned the business for more than two years. In this instance, you will be required to have sourced a copy of the financial accounts for the business and will need to provide these along with your application.
Please note that if the business was previously or is currently operating at a loss, you will be expected to address this issue directly in your business plan.
I am on a visa, can I apply?
It depends on your visa. There are a range of visas that restrict an individual’s ability to work in Ghana, whether based on sponsorship, number of hours or the right to be self-employed.
Please note, if your visa type does fit our eligibility criteria, you will still be required to ensure that the loan term you request in your application will enable you to fully complete your loan repayments at least 12 months prior to the expiry of your visa.
My business exports goods internationally. Am I still eligible to apply?
Yes, subject to three core factors.
1. Your business must be a Ghana registered company and/or registered in Ghana for tax purposes.
2. The operational side of your business must be based in Ghana.
3. The majority of revenue generated by your business must also reside in Ghana.
Does my business need to be registered with Registrar General or GRA before I can apply?
No, your business does not need to be registered with Registrar General or GRA in order to apply for a GHStartups.com Loan, but you need to have a website for such a business.
Note also that, your business needs to be registered with Registrar General and business bank account opened for your business before any disbursement can be initiated.
I do not have a business idea yet. Can I still apply for a GHStartups.com Loan?
Unfortunately, the GHStartups.com Loans are designed to support people in starting up or growing their business, so although you don’t need to be trading in order to qualify for a loan, you will need to have a business idea in order to make your application.
I have a business idea or my business is already trading. Can I apply for a GHStartups.com Loan?
Yes, the GHStartups.com Loans can support individuals who are starting new businesses or those with existing businesses, provided they have not been trading for more than two years.
Will I be charged for my application?
No, you will never be charged any upfront fees by us to make an application for a GHStartups.com Loan.
What factors do you consider when you assess applications?
There are three main areas that we will consider when we’re reviewing your GHStartups.com Loan application: your credit worthiness, whether or not you can afford to take on the loan and whether your business is viable.
Credit worthiness: As part of your application, you will be required to have a credit check that reviews your past and current financial behaviour. While a poor credit history will not prevent you from securing a GHStartups.com Loan in all instances, this part of the application process is part of our commitment to responsible lending and helps us ensure our applicants don’t overburden themselves.
Personal affordability: As GHStartups.com Loans are loans used for business purposes, you will be liable for repaying your loan even if your business plans change in the future. While GHStartups.com Loans may be non-secured (you do not have to put forward any collateral to guarantee the loan) you will need to fully repay the loan and any interest due over the course of your agreed loan term. Your application, which outlines your key sources of personal income and any expenses you incur each month, supports us in making this assessment.
Business viability: A key factor in our lending decision is ensuring that your business is going to generate enough money to help you meet your monthly loan repayments. To help us assess this, you therefore need to demonstrate that there is sufficient demand for your product(s) and/or service(s) and that you will be able to reasonably achieve all of the goals set out in your Business Plan and Cash Flow Forecast. Don’t worry if you have never created these documents before! Check out our free templates and guides and remember that we will be able to provide support throughout this part of the process.
Is there any support available during the application process?
Yes, we are on hand to support you through the application process. We can give you advice on completing the application forms and what information you’ll need to include. We can also help you create your business plan, cash flow forecast and business survival budget, whether you need help creating these from scratch or just want someone to review and sense check them.
Why might my application be declined?
There are a number of reasons why your application can be declined. As a responsible lender, there are two key criteria we use to determine whether or not we can lend to an applicant. The first relates to an individual’s affordability (will you be able to commit to the required loan repayments?) and the second relates to the viability of the applicant’s business plans and cash flow forecast (will you be able to reasonably achieve all of the goals you have set out in your plans and is there a sufficient market for your idea?).
Can I re-apply if my application is declined?
Yes, but if your application is declined you will need to wait at least three months before you can apply again. This period is designed to give you time to review and improve upon any areas of your application that prevented you from securing a GHStartups.com Loan previously.
Do I need a business bank account to receive this loan?
Yes. You need to have a bank account in the name of the business you are borrowing for.
I have applied for a GHStartups.com Loan but have not heard anything?
If you have not been contacted within two working days, please contact our Customer Service team, providing your contact details so we can support you in moving forward.
Can I stop the process at any time before receiving the loan?
Yes, you can withdraw your application at any point prior to receiving the loan. Once you have received the loan, there is a cooling off period of 14 days from the date of signing your Loan Agreement. If you decide you no longer want your loan during the cooling off period you can return the funds and you won’t be liable for any of the interest you have accrued. Refer to your Loan Agreement to confirm the details of your cooling off period. Please note that once your cooling off period has expired, you will be obligated to repay the full amount of the loan, including all interest.
What is a credit check?
A credit check is a review of your past and current financial behaviour that considers any sources of credit recorded against your name (including but not limited to credit cards, utility bills, mobile phone contracts and mortgages). As a responsible lender, GHStartups.com conducts credit checks to avoid increasing financial indebtedness that may overburden an individual borrower.
Who conducts credit checks?
If you are applying for a GHStartups.com Loan, then as part of the application process, we will conduct a credit check on your behalf, provided you have given your consent in accordance with our Privacy and Data Sharing Policy.
Please note, after a credit check has been conducted, our team is not able to discuss the specific details of your credit report with you. If you have concerns regarding your credit history, you will need to contact a Credit Reference Agency to request a copy of your Credit Report and address any concerns with them directly.
Is it a personal credit check or a business credit check?
It can be both.
If I pull out of the business or it ceases trading, do I still have to repay the loan?
Yes, a GHStartups.com Loan is a loan that is used for business purposes and therefore you are liable for repaying the full loan amount and interest as per the Loan Agreement you signed, regardless of that status of your business or your position within it.
The only time you can repay your loan without incurring any interest is during the 14-day cooling off period, directly after signing your Loan Agreement. During this period, if you decide you no longer want your loan you can return the funds and you won’t be liable for any of the interest you have accrued.
Please refer to your Loan Agreement to confirm the details of your cooling off period.
What is the repayment period for a GHStartups.com Loan?
You are required to make monthly loan repayments over a term of one to five years, depending on your affordability and preference. The exact loan term will be agreed as part of the application process and documented in your Loan Agreement if your application is successful.
What should I do if I think I’m going to miss a loan repayment?
You should contact us immediately and let us know your situation. It is always best that you speak to us if you believe you may not be able to make your next repayment rather than wait until the payment is missed.
What happens if I default on my loan repayments?
We follow standard market practice when loan repayments are missed and take a fair and reasonable approach. If you fail to make a payment we will attempt to contact you to determine the reasons for the payment being missed. We will also work with you to come to a reasonable and fair agreement about how you will address this and fulfill your obligations in the future. This will be followed up with an email and/or letter stating that a repayment(s) has been missed and outlining what needs to be done to remedy the situation.
If we are unable to contact you after repeated attempts, they may then look to recover the outstanding payments through various means such as, but not limited to, applying to issue a County Court Judgment (CCJ) or referring your case to an approved Debt Collection Agent.
I have received a Notice of Default. What should I do?
It is important that you respond to any notices of missed payments as soon as possible. Full contact details will be provided on the notice you received.
What happens if I do not respond to notices of missed payments or fail to keep up with my repayments?
It is important that you respond to any notices you receive and keep up to date with your loan repayments. Like any finance product, not meeting required loan repayments may result in one or more of the below actions against you:
- Credit Reference Agencies may be notified of any outstanding amounts, which may affect your credit rating and ability to obtain goods, services or particular forms of employment.
- A third-party collection agency may intervene to help recover any outstanding amounts.
- Legal proceedings including, but not limited to, a Court Judgment may commence.
I’ve received correspondence from a Debt Collection Agency. What should I do?
If you have failed to make your agreed loan repayments, you may be contacted by one of our approved Debt Collection Agencies. Until further notice, they will be overseeing your loan by helping you to work out your regular repayments or signposting you to relevant external advice in order to recover these costs. As such, you should contact the agency as soon as possible to commence this process. Please note that in most cases, once a Debt Collection Agency has intervened in the process, GHStartups.com will be unable to comment further about your loan.