How to Switch from Sole Proprietor to Pte Ltd

Running your own business as a sole proprietor is simple and cost-effective — until growth brings new challenges. As revenue rises, clients get bigger, and risks increase, many business owners reach a turning point:
👉 Should I incorporate my business as a Private Limited (Pte Ltd) company?

If you’re asking that question, this guide is for you. Below, we’ll explain when and how to make the switch, what changes after incorporation, and how to do it smoothly with expert guidance from.

Why Switch from Sole Proprietor to Pte Ltd

A sole proprietorship is registered under your name, and legally, you and the business are the same person. That means:

• You bear unlimited personal liability for all business debts.
  
  
• Profits are taxed under your personal income tax rate (up to 24%).
  
  
• The business ends when you stop operating — no continuity or transferability.
  
  

In contrast, a Pte Ltd company:

• Is a separate legal entity — your personal assets are protected.
  
  
• Pays corporate tax (up to 17%, with start-up exemptions).
  
  
• Has perpetual succession — it continues even if ownership changes.
  
  
• Can issue shares, attract investors, and even be sold later.
  
  

If your business is expanding, hiring employees, or seeking partnerships, incorporation isn’t just an upgrade — it’s a strategic move for long-term growth.

When Is the Right Time to Incorporate

You don’t have to rush incorporation the moment you start making profit. But here are signs that it’s time to switch:

If one or more of these apply, it’s likely time to move from self-employed to incorporated.

How to Convert Sole Proprietorship to Pte Ltd

Switching isn’t an overnight process — but with proper guidance, it’s straightforward. Here’s a step-by-step overview:

Step 1: Choose Your Company Name

Reserve a new company name through ACRA (Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority). You can choose to include your existing business name if it’s still available.

Step 2: Incorporate the New Company

You’ll need:

• At least 1 shareholder
  
  
• At least 1 local director (Singapore citizen, PR, or EntrePass holder)
  
  
• A company secretary (must be appointed within 6 months)
  
  
• A registered business address in Singapore
  
  
• Paid-up capital (minimum SGD 1 is enough to start)
  
  

File the incorporation online through ACRA’s BizFile+ portal or engage a corporate service provider like JWC Accounts & HR to handle it for you.

Step 3: Transfer Assets and Contracts

Once the company is incorporated:

• Transfer existing assets, inventory, equipment, and client contracts to the company.
  
  
• Update invoices, letterheads, and bank accounts to reflect your new company name.
  
  
• Inform suppliers, partners, and clients of the transition.
  
  

Pro tip: Draft simple transfer agreements to formally move ownership of assets from your personal name to the company.

Step 4: Open a New Corporate Bank Account

Your Pte Ltd must have its own bank account for accounting and audit purposes. Choose a bank that suits your business needs — or explore digital business accounts that integrate with accounting systems.

Step 5: Cease or Deregister Your Sole Proprietorship

Once operations are fully moved to the company, you should deregister your sole proprietorship via BizFile+.
This step ensures your business activities are no longer linked to your personal name and tax file.

Step 6: Register for GST (If Applicable)

If your annual turnover exceeds SGD 1 million, you’re required to register for Goods and Services Tax (GST). Your new company can do this after incorporation.

What Changes After You Incorporate

Transitioning to a Pte Ltd company means embracing a more professional and structured way of running your business.

While the administrative work increases slightly, the benefits far outweigh the effort — especially when your business is growing.

Common Mistakes to Avoid During Conversion

1. ❌ Not informing clients and suppliers about the new entity.
   
   
2. ❌ Using the same bank account for personal and company funds.
   
   
3. ❌ Forgetting to transfer existing assets or contracts legally.
   
   
4. ❌ Missing corporate filings or secretary appointment deadlines.
   
   
5. ❌ Assuming incorporation automatically transfers old business licenses.
   
   

Avoiding these mistakes ensures a smooth and compliant transition.

Upgrade for Growth, Not Just Compliance

Converting from a sole proprietorship to a Pte Ltd isn’t just about following the rules — it’s about positioning your business for success.
You gain credibility, scalability, and protection that a simple registration can’t provide.

Whether you’re planning to attract investors, expand your team, or simply reduce personal risk — incorporation is your next logical step.

Need Help Incorporating Smoothly?

Let JWC Accounts & HR handle the process for you — from incorporation to tax planning and compliance. Start your transition confidently with expert guidance.