Identity Verification at Companies House: What You Need to Know

The Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023 (ECCTA) received Royal Assent on 26 October 2023. Its primary aim is to overhaul the UK company registry, enhancing transparency and combating fraud, corruption and money laundering. A core reform under ECCTA is the introduction of mandatory identity verification (IDV) for company directors, persons with significant control (PSCs), and others filing at Companies House.

Why Identity Verification Is Being Introduced

• To deter fraudulent activity, such as fake directors,

• To ensure accuracy and trust in the Companies House register by verifying who sets up and controls companies,

• To align with broader efforts to tackle economic crime across the UK’s business environment.

Who Must Verify Their Identity

• New directors and PSCs must verify their identity from 18 November 2025, before incorporation or appointment,

• Existing directors and PSCs have a 12-month transitional period, where verification coincides with their next confirmation statement,

• LLP members, and later limited partnership general partners as well as those filing on behalf of companies, must also comply.

Timeline Overview

• Voluntary IDV available from 8 April 2025 via GOV.UK One Login or an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP),

• Mandatory IDV begins 18 November 2025, with 12-month transition for existing roles,

• From Spring 2026, those filing on behalf of companies must be verified or be ACSPs themselves.

How to Verify Your Identity

There are two routes for compliance:

1. Directly via GOV.UK One Login (free). This involves a smartphone app or browser-based verification using biometric documents, followed by provision of a unique personal code.

2. Through an ACSP (e.g. a solicitor, accountant or formation agent), authorised under anti-money laundering supervision. This route provides the same level assurance.

Once verified, you receive a personal code, to be used with each relevant Companies House filing to demonstrate proof of identity.

Consequences of Non-Compliance

Failure to complete the required identity verification within the prescribed timeframe may result in significant legal and regulatory consequences. There can include:

• Prohibition from acting as a director, LLP member, or in any other role that requires verification under the Act.

• Financial penalties imposed by Companies House or other relevant authorities.

• Criminal liability in certain circumstances, particularly if false or misleading information has been provided.

• Company strike-off from the Companies House register if a company no longer meets the statutory requirements.

In addition, individuals who have not been verified will be unable to carry out key statutory functions, such as filing company documents, starting a new company, or legally acting in their corporate capacity.

Conclusion

The new identity verification requirements introduced under the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023 represent a significant change to UK company law. From 18 November 2025, directors, Persons with Significant Control (PSCs), and other relevant parties will be legally required to verify their identity with Companies House or through an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP).

To ensure compliance and avoid potential penalties, individuals and companies should:

1. Identify all individuals within the organisation who will be subject to the verification requirement.

2. Select a verification route - either directly through GOV.UK One Login or ACSP registered with a UK AML supervisory body.

3. Complete the verification process well before the statutory deadline to avoid any last-minute administrative delays.

4. Maintain accurate records of verification and related correspondence for audit and compliance purposes.

5. Seek professional advice if there is any uncertainty about the applicability of the requirements.

Early preparation will help ensure a smooth transition and continued compliance with UK corporate regulations.