From 18 November 2025, identity verification will be mandatory with Companies House, and failure to comply may lead to a criminal offence. Over 6 million UK company directors and people with significant control (PSCs) are now on notice.
This change, coming from the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023, will effectively deter fraudulent or shell entities, all whilst protecting legitimate businesses, suppliers, and customers.
Who Needs to Verify and When?
With millions of people to verify, Companies House is using a phased approach. Starting 18 November 2025, you should be verified, but deadlines vary. It depends on your role and start date.
- If you want to become a new director of a company or a PSC, you will need to verify your identity before your appointment can be filed.
- If you’re an existing director, on or after 18 November, you will need to verify your identity before your company files its next annual confirmation statement. However, Companies House is giving you a 12-month transition period from this date.
- If you’re an existing PSC, you need to verify identity within a 14-day window of your birth month. For example, your birthday is in January. Your 14-day verification period will begin on 1 January 2026.
How to Verify Your Identity: A Simple Step-by-Step Guide
It mostly takes just a few minutes to complete the verification process. You have 2 options:
1. Verify Directly with Companies House
- Use the GOV.UK One Login system. Create an account if you don’t yet have one.
- Download the GOV.UK ID Check app to scan the biometric chip in your passport or driving licence and take a quick selfie.
- Once successful, you will get your 11-character Companies House personal code.
2. Verify Through an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP)
Your accountant or solicitor may also verify your identity on your behalf if they are an Authorised Corporate Service Provider or ACSP and supervised by a UK Anti-Money Laundering (AML) body.
Provide your designated ACSP with your identity documents. Seeking help from an ACSP is your option if you are not that tech-savvy or are currently living overseas and can’t access the app.
Be sure to keep your unique personal code, as this will serve as proof that your identity is verified and a prerequisite for all your Companies House filings moving forward.
The Consequences for Non-Compliance Are Serious: Act Now
Ignoring your notice has severe consequences, including:
- A criminal offence
- Fines and prosecution
- Filing restrictions
- Director disqualification
Identity verification is no longer a choice, so be sure to act on it as soon as possible.
It’s a Positive Change for Legitimate Companies
The new rule makes the UK’s business register both trustworthy and accurate, bringing positive impact to legitimate businesses:
- Makes it significantly harder for criminals to create fake companies or use false identities to hide illegal activities.
- Gives greater confidence for anyone looking up a firm on the register that it is, indeed, run by real, accountable persons.
- Reduces corporate identity fraud.
The Deadline is Real: Don’t Let it Catch You Out
Don’t ignore that notice and get your identity verified now. If it confuses you, Legend Financial is here to help. We are an Authorised Corporate Service Provider, so we can guide you and your team through the entire process.
We can handle the verification on your behalf and ensure all your company’s filings remain compliant. Don’t risk fines, penalties, or worse. Contact us at Legend Financial today!
