Liquidation Vs Administration

Understanding the differences between Liquidation and Administration

Understanding the two types of liquidation

While liquidation and administration are both formal insolvency procedures, they are in fact very different processes which ultimately look to achieve very different outcomes. In simple terms, liquidation brings about the end of a company by selling – or liquidating – its assets before dissolving it entirely. Administration on the other hand, is typically utilised when there is a chance of saving a business which is currently experiencing high levels of financial or operational distress. Let’s explore this further.

Liquidation is employed when a company is beyond rescue, or when its directors no longer want to continue running the company for any number of reasons. There are in fact two different types of liquidation depending on the financial position of the company in question.

Director Redundancy Entitlement – Did you know that as a limited company director, you may be entitled to claim redundancy if your company enters into an insolvent liquidation process? We can point you towards a fully regulated third party who can provide advice on your right to claim director redundancy if this is applicable to your situation. To understand if you are entitled, give a member of our team a call on 0800 063 9262, or email [email protected].

Jonathan Munnery

Partner

If you are considering liquidation for your limited company, taking advice from a licensed insolvency practitioner can help you understand your options.

SOLVENT V INSOLVENT LIQUIDATIONS

If a company is profitable and has reserves of cash or assets – that is, it is solvent – but it is no longer needed, perhaps due to retirement, or if the director is moving on to a new venture, then the company can be closed down by way of a Members’ Voluntary Liquidation (MVL). This allows for the company’s assets to be distributed to shareholders in a time-efficient and cost-effective manner before winding down the company for good. MVLs must be undertaken by a licensed insolvency practitioner, and due to the professional costs involved, they are typically only suitable for those companies with in excess of £25,000 to distribute.

Worried about your Bounce Back Loan?

If you are a limited company director worried about how you are going to repay your Bounce Back Loan, we are here to help. As licensed insolvency practitioners we can talk you through your options when it comes to repaying your outstanding Bounce Back Loan, as well as handling all negotiations with creditors on your behalf. Call our team today on 0800 063 9262 .

LIQUIDATING AN INSOLVENT COMPANY

In many instances, however, a director will want to see their company liquidated due to falling sales and rising debts. Once a company is unable to meet its outgoings as and when they fall due, or if its liabilities outweigh its assets, it is classed as technically insolvent. The liquidation of an insolvent company is achieved through a process known as a Creditors’ Voluntary Liquidation – or CVL.

As part of the process, a licensed insolvency practitioner is appointed who will identify the company’s assets before selling these for the benefit of any outstanding creditors. The company will then be brought to a close in an orderly manner. Any debts remaining at this point will be written off – unless the director has provided a personal guarantee – and the company will cease to exist.

Company Liquidation

HOW IS COMPANY ADMINISTRATION DIFFERENT?

Where liquidation signals the ultimate end of a company, administration on the other hand is often focussed on saving the business through a process of restructuring. Once a company is placed into administration, the appointed administrator takes control of the company and it is immediately granted a moratorium – a powerful ring-fence that halts any legal action being taken.

This gives the administrator time and space to assess the company and devise a strategy to rescue the business should this be possible. This may involve a process of streamlining such as closing down non-performing areas of the business or unprofitable retail stores, or else by restructuring its debts to make them more affordable.

There are times, however, when a company enters administration with the aim of commencing a turnaround yet this proves not to be possible. In this instance the company will exit administration and immediately enter liquidation – typically through a CVL.

LIQUIDATION OR ADMINISTRATION: WHICH IS RIGHT FOR YOUR BUSINESS?

If your company is experiencing financial difficulties and you are unsure what your next step should be, you are strongly advised to seek the assistance of a licensed insolvency practitioner. At UK Liquidators we have over 70 fully licensed insolvency practitioners located across the length and breadth of the country, ready to provide you with the help and guidance that you need at this time.

We will take the time to understand your company and the problems it is currently facing. With this information we can advise you on your possible options and be with you every step of the way no matter what you decide. Call our expert advisers today to arrange a free no-obligation consultation with a licensed insolvency practitioner in your area.

Officially the largest UK Liquidations Company

Supporting 25,000+ Limited Company Directors Nationwide

Although nobody goes into business expecting their company to fail, UK Liquidators were supportive and helpful through the whole liquidation process, and I would have no hesitation recommending them to others in the same position.

Paul Winter | Director

When the time came to put my company into liquidation, I had no idea what to expect. However, my UK Liquidators insolvency practitioner patiently explained the process and also talked me through the alternatives.

John Lakeland | CEO

During a very stressful time, UK Liquidators were able to calmly explain the liquidation process to me, ensuring I knew exactly what I was getting into before going ahead. I cannot thank them enough for making a difficult time that little bit easier.

Harry Barnes | Company Director

You’re in safe hands with UK Liquidators

At UK Liquidators, our service is fully partner-led and your case will always be overseen by a fully licensed insolvency practitioner.

Meet The Team

Jonathan Munnery

Partner

Mark Boast

Insolvency Practitioner

Matthew Cluer

Director

Carolynn Best

Partner

Pages related to The difference between liquidation and administration

Can a 50-50 shareholder put a company into liquidation?

Learn more

Can I be a director again after my business folds?

Learn more

Can I be investigated if my company goes into liquidation?

Learn more

Contact the UK Liquidators Team

If you are considering liquidation for your company, taking expert advice at an early stage is crucial. At UK Liquidators, our team of licensed insolvency practitioners are committed to providing limited company directors with the help and advice they need to make an informed decision.