Companies House Identity Verification – Guide

What is Companies House Identity Verification process?

Goal: To ensure that the individuals behind companies are who they claim to be — helping to reduce fraud, improve trust in the company register, and strengthen the UK’s anti-money laundering (AML) framework.

When is it Starting?

While some changes under the Act are already in motion, identity verification for Directors and Persons with Significant Control (PSCs) is expected to become mandatory by late 2025, with implementation from Autumn 2025.

Companies House has not yet announced a fixed date, but they are working towards rolling out the identity verification system before the end of the year.

Important: While identity verification will be introduced in late 2025, existing directors, PSCs, and members of LLPs will not be required to verify their identity until Autumn 2026. This gives existing appointments additional time to comply with the new rules.

Who needs to verify?

The following individuals will be required to complete identity verification:

• All company directors (existing and newly appointed)
• Persons with Significant Control (PSCs)
• LLP members
• Anyone filing on behalf of a company (e.g., agents or intermediaries)

Verification will apply to UK-based and overseas individuals alike.

Verification Methods:

• Online via GOV.UK One Login 
  Upload a valid photo ID (passport, driving license, etc.) and complete a selfie check.
• In person at a UK Post Office  If you’re a UK resident without the required digital ID, you can schedule a face-to-face appointment at a participating Post Office. You still begin the process online via GOV.UK to check eligibility.
• Through an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP)
  Use an accountant, solicitor, or other authorised agent. They verify your ID and submit on your behalf.

Please note: There is no option to verify solely via post/mail. Verification method must begin online, even for in-person appointments.

How can we help?

Navigating new compliance requirements can be time-consuming. Here’s how we support with the Companies House identity verification process:

• Guidance on the requirements 
  We’ll advise who needs to verify, what documents are required and when to act, so you don’t miss any important steps or deadlines.
• Assist with the Online Process
  We’ll walk you through the verification process, from setting up your GOV.UK One Login to uploading documents and completing the ID check.
• Verification through our Firm
  We can handle the identity verification for you in a secure and efficient manner and submit it directly to Companies House.

Naylor Accountancy Services is currently in the process of registering as an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP), which will enable us to carry out identity verification on behalf of our clients.

A unique identifier, known as a Companies House personal code, will be issued once the verification process is complete. This code can be used for the following purposes:

• filing a confirmation statement
• appointment as a director
• appointment as a person with significant control (PSC)

This code is a legal requirement that ensures the correct identity is linked to the role an individual holds. It should only be shared with people you trust, such as those who file on your behalf or for your company and must be kept secure.

Failure to Verify: What Are the Implications?

Failure to comply with the identity verification within the specified timeframe may be considered a criminal offence and could result in financial penalties. You may also be unable to:

• submit filings to Companies House
• set up a new company or other legal entity

How Does This Affect Anti-Money Laundering (AML) Obligations?

The identity verification process will complement AML regulations, not replace them.

Key implications:

- Corporate service providers must be supervised by AML and register with Companies House to act as an ACSP.

- Using a verified identity system aligns company records with AML checks, reducing the risk of impersonation or false filings.

- ACSPs must ensure identity checks meet both CH and AML standards.

For further information, please visit:

• Companies House starts to verify identities - GOV.UK
• Identity verification - Changes to UK company law
• Verifying your identity for Companies House - GOV.UK
• Using your GOV.UK One Login: Proving your identity with GOV.UK One Login - GOV.UK