Companies House Identity Verification Guide | Directors & PSCs

Major changes have been introduced to improve the accuracy and transparency of the UK company register.

As part of the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023 (ECCTA), Companies House has introduced mandatory identity verification for company directors and People with Significant Control (PSCs).

From 18 November 2025, identity verification became a legal requirement, with a phased implementation for existing companies. These reforms are designed to tackle fraud, improve corporate transparency and increase confidence in the UK business register.  GOV.UK+1

If you are a company director, PSC or business owner, understanding these new requirements is essential to avoid compliance issues.

Who Needs to Verify Their Identity?

Identity verification applies to:

• Company directors.
• People with Significant Control (PSCs).
• Individuals forming new companies who will become directors or PSCs.

Additional identity verification requirements for certain other roles and company structures will be introduced in later phases of the Companies House reforms.GOV.UK

When Do the Rules Apply?

The implementation depends on your circumstances.

New Directors and PSCs

Anyone appointed as a new director or registered as a new PSC from 18 November 2025 must comply with the identity verification requirements as part of the appointment process.GOV.UK+1

Existing Directors

Existing directors generally confirm that they have verified their identity when filing their company’s next confirmation statement during the 12-month transition period that began on 18 November 2025.GOV.UK+1

 

How Can You Verify Your Identity?

There are two main ways to complete identity verification:

GOV.UK One Login

Most individuals can verify directly with Companies House using GOV.UK One Login.

This is free and can usually be completed online using suitable identification, such as a passport or driving licence.

Through an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP)

You can also verify your identity through an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP), such as an accountant, solicitor or company formation agent that is authorised by Companies House.

This can be particularly helpful for business owners who prefer professional support with their Companies House obligations.

Why Is Identity Verification Important?

The new rules are intended to:

• Reduce company fraud.
• Improve the accuracy of Companies House records.
• Prevent the misuse of stolen or false identities.
• Increase confidence in the UK corporate register.
• Support efforts to combat economic crime.

These reforms represent one of the most significant changes to Companies House in many years.

What Happens If You Do Not Verify?

Failing to comply with the identity verification requirements can have serious consequences.

Depending on your circumstances, Companies House may:

• Reject certain company filings.
• Prevent confirmation statements from being accepted until directors are verified.
• Take enforcement action where legal requirements are not met.
• Treat continuing to act without complying with the verification requirements as an offence after the applicable deadline.

For these reasons, it is sensible to complete verification well before it becomes due.

How Business Management Consultation Can Help

As part of our company secretarial and compliance services, Business Management Consultation can help you stay ahead of the new Companies House requirements.

Our services include:

• Guidance on identity verification requirements.
• Assistance as an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (where applicable).
• Monitoring Companies House deadlines.
• Confirmation Statement preparation and filing.
• Ongoing company secretarial support.
• General Companies House compliance advice.

We help ensure your company remains compliant while allowing you to focus on running your business.

Conclusion

Companies House identity verification is now a key part of UK company compliance.

Whether you are an existing director, a newly appointed director or a Person with Significant Control, understanding the new rules and completing verification on time will help avoid unnecessary delays, rejected filings and potential enforcement action.

If you would like assistance with Companies House identity verification or your wider company compliance obligations, our experienced team is here to help.

Call us today on 01273 777 333 to discuss how we can support your business.