Companies House have introduced identity verification as part of their reforms against economic crime. The purpose is to deter criminals from registering or using existing companies for fraudulent purposes, prevent identity theft, and improve transparency, trust and accuracy in the information held on the public register.
Any of the following individuals will need to verify their identity with Companies House:
- Directors (or equivalent including members, general partners and managing officers)
- Persons with Significant Control
- Anyone filing for a company (e.g., company secretary)
- Authorised Corporate Service Providers (ACSPs)
Currently, registration is open for ACSPs and directors and PSCs can voluntarily verify their identities. This will become mandatory in Autumn 2025 at a date yet to be specified, and those set out above will have a 12-month transition period to comply. They will be prompted to verify their ID when filing the annual confirmation statement or being appointed as director or listed as a PSC for another company.
Need to verify your identity?
Those needing to verify their identity can do so themselves with Companies House, or go through an Authorised Corporate Service Provider, such as 1st Choice Incorporations, who can verify their ID and confirm this to Companies House.
The following information will need to be submitted to Companies House:
- Full name
- Date of birth
- Residential address
- Identity document details (e.g., passport number, driving licence number etc.)
What happens once you have verified your identity?
Once you have verified your identity, you will receive a Personal Code which should be kept secure as it links your verified identity with any appointments you have. From Autumn 2025, the personal code will need to be provided when filing the next confirmation statement for existing companies or upon incorporation of a new company or when appointed to a company. You will not need to repeat the verification process unless requested by Companies House.
For new business owners, this process will be part of setting up a UK limited company to ensure compliance and transparency.
Can I verify my identity later?
Currently the requirement is voluntary but will become mandatory later this year. If you decide to wait until it is mandatory, you will be required to verify your identity before filing any confirmation statements or being appointed as a director (or equivalent), PSC or filing for a company.
Once the requirement becomes compulsory, you must verify your identity or you will be restricted from submitting any filings to Companies House, registering a new company or partnership or registering as an ACSP. Failure to verify your identity will also constitute an offence and you may be subject to a financial penalty or disqualification if you are a director.
Ready to be verified?
As a registered ACSP, 1st Choice Incorporations can perform an ID check and verify your identity with Companies House to ensure compliance ahead of the requirement becoming mandatory. If you are incorporating a company, our UK company formation packages include expert support to make the process seamless.
Want to verify your identity with Companies House now? Contact our friendly team today.
