Identity Verification at Companies House

Companies House has started implementing new measures under the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023 (ECCTA) to improve the accuracy and integrity of company data.

A key change for organisations with obligations to file at Companies House is the introduction of identity verification. Voluntary identity verification for officers, directors and persons with significant control was introduced from 8 April.

Previously, individuals could submit filings with minimal checks. The new process ensures that only verified individuals can register, own, manage or act on behalf of UK companies. This measure aims to help prevent fraud, money laundering, and misuse of corporate structures, as well as being a significant step towards improving corporate transparency and data accuracy.

Who must verify their identity with Companies House?

The new Companies House identity verification applies to anyone setting up, running, owning or controlling a company, limited liability partnership or limited partnership in the UK, irrespective of their residential location. This includes:

• Company directors or equivalent
• Persons with Significant Control (PSCs)
• Authorised Corporate Service Providers (ACSPs)
• Anyone filing documents on behalf of a company, including company secretary appointments

Identity verification will also be introduced for people who file at Companies House in due course, including limited partnerships, corporate directors of companies, corporate members of LLPs, and officers of corporate PSCs.

How to verify your identity with Companies House?

Companies House-approved identity verification methods include:

1. GOV.UK One Login using either digital ID and facial recognition or in-person verification at selected UK Post Offices.
2. Through a professional services provider, such as an accountant or solicitor, who is a registered ACSP with Companies House.

Once verified, you will receive a Companies House personal code which must be kept secure and only shared with trusted individuals.

When do you need to verify your identity with Companies House?

The new rules will be mandatory from 18 November 2025, which means that:

• Identity verification will be enforced on incorporation and appointment of new directors and PSCs.
• A 12-month transition period begins for existing directors and PSCs to complete their verification.

During the transition period, the deadline for completing your identity verification and providing your Companies House personal code depends on your appointment:

• Directors (and PSCs who are also directors) will have 14 days from the company's confirmation statement date to provide their personal codes.
• PSCs who are not also directors must provide their personal code within 14 days from the start of their birth month - please visit the Companies House website for further clarification.

Business owners should look to understand these new requirements, establish who within the organisation needs to verify, and ensure verification is completed before the end of the transition period. Non-compliance may result in disqualification, fines or other penalties.

Full guidance issued by Companies House can be found on their website.

If you have any questions, please contact your usual Duncan & Toplis adviser or contact us.