Companies House Identity Verification – Key Updates

From 18 November 2025, identity verification will be required for all UK company directors, members of limited liability partnerships (LLPs), and persons with significant control (PSCs). This is part of the UK government’s reforms to improve the accuracy and transparency of the Companies Register and help prevent fraudulent activity.

Once verified, each individual will receive a personal code to use when filing certain information with Companies House, such as confirmation statements or new appointments.

Implementation Timeline

• Voluntary period: Since April 2025, individuals have been able to verify their identity via GOV.UK One Login
• Mandatory period from 18 November 2025: New directors and PSCs must verify their identity upon appointment or incorporation. Existing individuals will need to complete verification when filing their next confirmation statement, within a 12-month transition period.
• Future phases: By 2026, identity verification will also be required for document presenters and certain other roles.

Verification Methods

1. GOV.UK One Login: Free service allowing verification online, through an app, or via a Post Office visit.
2. Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP) – A regulated intermediary, such as an accountant or company service provider, can complete verification on your behalf.

Identity Verification Deadlines by Role

Directors (or equivalent)

All directors must provide their Companies House personal code when filing the company’s next confirmation statement. If you serve as a director for multiple companies, a code must be provided for each entity. In cases of new company registration, each director must submit a code as part of the incorporation. Overseas companies must ensure that all their UK-establishment directors complete identity verification on or before the anniversary of the UK registration.

People with Significant Control (PSCs)

PSCs are required to verify their identity and supply their personal code within a 14-day window. The deadline depends on your specific situation and is listed on the Companies House register.

If you are both a director and a PSC in the same company, both roles must be treated separately:

• As a director: your code must be included in the company’s confirmation statement.
• As a PSC: you must submit your code via the ‘Provide identity verification details for a PSC’ service within 14 days after the confirmation statement date — even if the company filed the statement early.

If you are a PSC only (not a director), the 14-day period begins on the first day of your date of birth month. For example, if you were born on 22 January, your submission window opens on 1 January.

For anyone becoming a PSC after 18 November 2025, the code must be provided either when you are first added to the register, or within 14 days of that addition.

Authorised Corporate Service Providers (ACSPs)

If you wish to register as an authorised agent with Companies House (ACSP), you must first complete identity verification. Once authorised, you can verify your clients’ identities. Going forward, businesses will also need to register as ACSPs to file on behalf of clients.

Why it matters
Completing verification on time will be essential to avoid delays, penalties, or restrictions on company filings.

How We Can Help

Being an ACSP, Ascentium can complete the verification process on your behalf, providing you with both peace of mind and the assurance that your obligations are met accurately and on time.

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to reach out to your usual Ascentium contact.