To increase transparency and reduce fraud, Companies House now requires you to verify your identity if you manage or own a UK-registered company. This is part of the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023 and therefore represents a shift in how companies interact with the public register.
By confirming identities, Companies House ensures that only real people can form and manage companies. This makes it much harder for criminals to hide behind fake names or operate shell companies. It also gives businesses more confidence when checking the register, knowing that the listed information is accurate and verified.
Moreover, this change aligns the UK with international standards for corporate governance and reflects the growing use of digital tools in public administration.
Who Needs to Verify their Identity with Companies House?
You must verify your identity with Companies House if you fall into any of the following roles:
- A company director or someone in a similar position, such as a member of a Limited Liability Partnership or a general partner
- A Person with Significant Control (PSC), such as someone owning more than 25% of a company’s shares or voting rights
- A company secretary or someone responsible for filing with Companies House
- An Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP), such as an accountant or solicitor registered under the UK’s Anti-Money Laundering (AML) regulations
If your role fits one of these categories, you must complete identity verification. Not doing so could lead to your removal from position, blocked filings or other legal consequences.
How to Verify Your Identity with Companies House
There are three free ways to verify your identity with Companies House. All options use the GOV.UK One Login system.
1. Verify Online Using GOV.UK One Login
The fasted and easiest option is online verification. You will need:
- A clear photo of your face
- One of the following IDs:
- A biometric passport (any country)
- A UK photo driving license
- A UK Biometric Residence Permit (BRP)
- A UK Biometric Residence Card (BRC)
- A UK Frontier Worker Permit (FWP)
If you do not have these documents but live in the UK, you may be able to verify using your bank or building society account. The system will guide you to the best method.
2. Verify at the Post Office
If online options are not suitable, you can visit a participating Post Office. Here’s how:
- Use the Companies House verification service to get a barcode
- Bring your barcode and photo ID to the Post Office
- A staff member will scan your barcode and confirm your identity
This method is ideal if you have limited access to technology or prefer face-to-face verification.
3. Verify Through an ACSP
An Authorised Corporate Service Provider can verify your identity for you. These include:
- Accountants
- Solicitors
- Company formation agents
To act as an ACSP, the provider must:
- Register with Companies House
- Be supervised by a UK Anti-Money Laundering body
ACSPs may charge for this service, but many businesses find this option convenient, especially when the provider already holds your documents.
What You Receive After Verification
After successful verification, Companies House will issue you a unique 11-character personal code. This code:
- Links your identity to your roles at Companies House
- Must be used when filing Confirmation Statements or accepting new appointments
- Is personal to you, not your company
Store your code safely and only share it with those you trust, such as your company secretary or accountant.
What Happens If You Don’t Verify
Failing to verify your identity can lead to serious consequences. You will not be able to:
- Submit documents to Companies House
- Start or register a company
- Act as or become an ACSP
Further penalties may include:
- Fines
- Criminal prosecution
- Disqualification from directorships
Companies House may also flag your profile as “unverified”, which could damage your credibility and that of your business.
Timeline
| Date | Event | What You Need to Do |
|---|---|---|
| March 2025 | ACSP registration opens | AML-supervised professionals can apply to become ACSPs |
| April 2025 | Voluntary identity verification begins | Start verifying now via GOV.UK One Login, Post Office or through an ACSP |
| Autumn 2025 (exact date pending) | Verification becomes mandatory for new roles | Ensure all new directors, PSCs and filers are verified before appointment or filing |
| Autumn 2026 (exact date pending) | Deadline for existing roles | Verify all current directors and PSCs before this date to remain compliant |
Contact Us
We are not just accountants; we are Chartered Accountants with one of the most reputable and premium accounting bodies. We are registered and regulated by ACCA; so you can rest assured that you are in good hands. Knowing this, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us if you require assistance: Pi Accountancy | Contact Us