Directors Must Verify Their Identity at Companies House: What You Need to Know

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From 18 November 2025, all UK company directors and individuals with significant control (PSCs) will be required to verify their identity with Companies House. This requirement, introduced under the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023, is designed to enhance transparency and reduce the risk of fraud within the UK company register.

Key Dates and Requirements

New directors must verify their identity when incorporating a company or joining an existing one from 18 November 2025. Existing directors and PSCs must complete verification by their next annual confirmation statement, or by November 2026 at the latest. Companies House estimates that up to seven million individuals will need to complete this process within the first year.

For most people, verification is a one-off online procedure. Key points to note include:
• Verification is mandatory for both new and existing directors and PSCs.
• Existing directors have until their next confirmation statement, or November 2026, to comply.
• The process is primarily online but may involve in-person steps if necessary.
• Directors and PSCs do not need to wait until the deadline; verification can be completed now, helping avoid last-minute delays.

Who Needs to Verify Their Identity

Identity verification applies to a range of individuals connected to a company:
• Company directors and PSCs
• Members, general partners, and managing officers
• Individuals filing on behalf of a company, such as company secretaries
• Authorised Corporate Service Providers (ACSPs), including accountants and solicitors, who may verify on behalf of clients

Typically, verification only needs to be completed once unless Companies House requests it again.

How to Verify Your Identity

Verification can be completed through:
• GOV.UK One Login, which guides users through the process using an app, security questions, or a visit to a participating Post Office
• ACSPs registered with Companies House and a UK Anti-Money Laundering supervisory body

Why Verification Matters

Mandatory identity verification helps combat corporate fraud and strengthens the integrity of the company register. Companies House gains the ability to reject fraudulent filings and impose penalties. Non-compliance may result in fines, disqualification, or even company dissolution.

Preparing for Verification

Directors and PSCs are advised to begin the verification process early to avoid delays. Steps to prepare include:
• Monitoring communications from Companies House regarding deadlines
• Consulting ACSPs or company secretaries if guidance is needed
• Ensuring all personal information is accurate and up to date before verification
• Considering early verification to ensure compliance well ahead of deadlines

For more detailed guidance, click here or Get in touch with us today.

Author

James Foskett

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