Articles of Association — Word & PDF Template

These articles of association set out the internal rules governing a private limited company, regulating how the company is owned, managed and run. They are the company’s core constitutional document and govern the relationship between members and directors.

Who is this template for?

It is intended for company founders, directors, shareholders and advisers setting up or restructuring a private limited company in England and Wales. Use it when incorporating a company or replacing model articles with bespoke rules.

What does the template include?

The articles are organised into clearly numbered provisions covering company governance:

• Company details — name and registered particulars.
• Interpretation — defined terms used throughout.
• Liability of members — limited liability of shareholders.
• Share capital — issue and rights of shares.
• Voting rights — how members vote.
• Transfer of shares — restrictions and procedures.
• Directors — appointment, powers and removal.
• Board meetings — convening and conduct.
• General meetings — members’ meetings and resolutions.
• Dividends — declaring and paying dividends.
• Accounts and audit — financial records.
• Notices — giving formal notices.
• Winding up — dissolution and distribution.
• Amendment of articles — changing the constitution.
• Governing law — England and Wales jurisdiction.
• Adoption — formal adoption of the articles.

Easy to customise

The template works in Microsoft Word, Google Docs and LibreOffice. Fill in the highlighted fields, tailor the share and director provisions to your company and remove anything that does not apply.

Format and scope

Supplied as an editable Word (.docx) file and a ready-to-print PDF, formatted to A4. Written in plain British English with light, general references to the Companies Act and England & Wales law.