Inform Direct makes it very easy to create a new share class. You would do this before you allot shares for this new class you can also create a new share class as part of the allotment process.

To create a new share class follow these steps:

1. Go to the Share Classes tab and select the blue Share reorganisation button. See below

2. This will bring up the several options. Select Create new share class.

3. This will start the Share Class wizard. Details of the new share class can be entered at this point. Inform Direct will only send details of this share class to Companies House when the first shares of the new class are allotted.

4. You will be given the chance to create any supporting documents which you may require for creating a share class.

Note: You should ensure the the articles of association for the company support the new share class you are creating. You may need to amend or adopt new articles of association.

5. If you have created the new share class in error then, before you have allotted any shares, you can easily remove it.

My company has Model Articles — can I just add a new share class, or do I need to change them?

Model Articles aren't built to support more than one class of share, so if you're introducing a second (or further) share class you will typically need to adopt Enhanced Articles of Association instead — these are available as ready-made templates for one, two, or three share classes in the Template Library. Once adopted, the amended or replacement articles need to be filed at Companies House. For more on why Model Articles fall short here, see our blog: Enhanced Articles of Association. This is general guidance rather than legal advice — you should speak to a solicitor to confirm which articles are suitable for your company's specific circumstances.