Need help with Companies House identity verification?
From 18 November 2025, every UK company director and person with significant control (PSC) must complete Companies House identity verification. It’s part of wider reforms to make company data more transparent and protect against economic crime.
Getting professional help with your accounting services ensures you stay compliant without the admin stress.
In this guide, you’ll learn what the new verification rules mean, who’s affected, how to complete the process, and why using an Authorised Agent (ACSP) like Sleek is the easiest way to stay compliant.
Need help with your Companies House Identity Verification?
What’s behind the new Companies House verification rules
The UK government is tightening corporate transparency, and Companies House identity verification is central to that plan. From 18 November 2025, every director, company secretary, and person with significant control (PSC) must prove who they are before they can act for a company or file documents.
This change comes from the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act. It’s designed to stop fake or fraudulent companies and make data on the public register more reliable.
For businesses, it’s simple. No verification means no filing. Directors who fail to verify won’t be able to submit their confirmation statement or update company details, putting their business at risk of penalties or being struck off.
The process itself is quick and secure. You can verify using GOV.UK One Login or through an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP) such as your accountant or company formation agent. We’ll explore that option further in our upcoming guide on using an Authorised Agent for identity verification.
If you’re about to set up a company, make sure ID checks are part of your process. See our guide on registering a company in the UK or learn how to switch accountants if you need help managing the transition.
With millions of directors verifying before the deadline, acting early will help you avoid backlogs, rejected filings, or compliance issues.
Who needs to verify their identity and when
Every company director, company secretary, and person with significant control (PSC) must complete Companies House identity verification. The rules apply to both new and existing companies.
If you’re setting up a new company, all directors must verify at the time of incorporation. Learn more about the process in our guide on registering a company in the UK.
For existing directors and PSCs, the verification window opens on 18 November 2025 and remains open for 12 months. Each individual must verify before the next confirmation statement is due.
Here’s a quick overview of the key timelines:
|
Role |
When to verify |
What’s required |
|
New directors |
At company registration (from 18 Nov 2025) |
Verify through GOV.UK One Login or an ACSP before appointment is accepted |
|
Existing directors |
Before the next confirmation statement due date |
Must provide Companies House personal code when filing |
|
New PSCs |
Within 14 days of appointment |
Verification required before they can act or be recorded |
|
Existing PSCs |
By their next confirmation statement date (on or after 18 Nov 2025) |
Verification must be completed before filing |
Once verified, Companies House issues a personal code linking all your company roles. Keep this secure for future filings and updates.
If you miss the deadline, you won’t be able to file documents or act as a director. Companies can also face late fees or be struck off the register.
Set reminders for your key filing dates, just as you would for Corporation Tax deadlines. Acting early helps you stay compliant and avoid last-minute stress.
How to complete Companies House identity verification, step by step
Verify directly with Companies House
Best if you want to self-serve.
- Create or sign in to GOV.UK One Login. Use the email tied to your Companies House filings.
- Start the Verify your identity for Companies House service.
- Scan your photo ID with your phone or webcam. A passport or UK driving licence works best.
- Take a live selfie so the system matches you to your ID.
- Submit and wait for approval.
- Save your personal code. You’ll use it for your next confirmation statement and any director appointments.
- Share your code securely with your accountant if they file on your behalf. Never post it publicly.
Use a bright room, a steady hand, and a valid, undamaged ID. If you’re incorporating now, complete verification alongside your company registration.
Verify through an Authorised Agent (ACSP)
Best for speed, accuracy, and fewer admin loops.
- Your accountant invites each director and PSC to complete ACSP verification.
- Each person provides a unique email address and mobile number. One person per email.
- Open the secure link on a smartphone.
- Upload your photo ID, then take a quick selfie.
- The ACSP runs AML checks and confirms the match.
- You receive your personal code by email.
- Your accountant stores the code securely and links it to future filings, reducing the chance of rejection.
Why ACSP often wins: Fewer errors, guided checks, and faster filing readiness. EffectiveACSP workflows catch issues early and prevent last-minute blocks, such as an overdue confirmation statement. If you want the deep dive, see our guide on using an Authorised Agent for identity verification.
Act early: From 18 November 2025, the rule applies to all roles. No verification means no filing, which risks late fees and strike off.
What happens if you don’t verify your identity
Failing to complete Companies House identity verification on time can have serious consequences. The new rules are strict, and Companies House has the power to block filings or take legal action if you don’t comply.
Here’s what’s at stake:
- You can’t file documents. Directors and PSCs who haven’t verified can’t submit a confirmation statement or any company updates.
- Your company could face penalties. Missed filings may lead to late fees or even legal enforcement.
- Directors risk disqualification. Acting without verification is an offence under the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act.
- The company could be struck off. Persistent non-compliance allows Companies House to remove a company from the register.
There’s no grace period once your filing date arrives. If your verification isn’t done, your business effectively stops being able to operate within the system.
It’s best to treat verification like any other compliance deadline; similar to your Corporation Tax filing dates or HMRC obligations. Complete it early, keep your personal code secure, and your company will remain in good standing.
Staying compliant with the new verification rules
Once you’ve completed Companies House identity verification, staying compliant becomes simple. The key is to keep your details up to date and make sure every new appointment or ownership change follows the same process.
Here’s how to stay on track:
- Store your personal code securely. Keep it in a password-protected file or with your accountant. You’ll need it each time you act for a company.
- Plan for new appointments. Anyone joining as a director or PSC after 18 November 2025 must verify before their role is confirmed.
- Track filing deadlines. Align verification with your confirmation statement or Corporation Tax schedule to avoid missed filings.
- Update addresses and roles. If you move or change company officers, file updates early to prevent mismatched data. Refer toour guide on company registered office addresses to keep your records current.
- Work with a trusted accountant. They can act as your Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP), completing verification and handling filings quickly.
These rules are part of a broader shift toward digital, verified business records. With early preparation and the right support, compliance doesn’t have to be complex. If anything, it just becomes routine.
Companies House identity verification made simple with Sleek
The new Companies House identity verification rules mark a major step towards transparency and security in UK business. Once you understand the timelines and complete the process, compliance is straightforward.
Working with an accountant or authorised agent helps you stay ahead of deadlines and ensures your filings are accepted the first time. With Sleek’s guidance, you can manage identity checks and company filings in one smooth process; keeping your business compliant and ready for growth.
If you’d like expert help managing verification or your wider company admin, our team’s here to support you.
Need clarity on your compliance steps? Get professional help from Sleek’s accounting team and make identity verification stress-free.
FAQs on Companies House identity verification
Who needs to complete Companies House identity verification?
Every company director, company secretary, and person with significant control (PSC) must verify their identity. The rule applies to both new and existing companies.
When do I need to verify my identity?
New directors and PSCs must verify before they can act for the company. Existing directors have until their next confirmation statement after 18 November 2025. You can learn more about filing responsibilities in our guide to overdue confirmation statements.
What documents do I need for verification?
You’ll need a valid passport or UK driver’s licence, plus proof of address such as a recent utility bill. If you’re unsure what counts as proof, our guide to company registered office addresses explains acceptable formats.
What is the Companies House personal code?
It’s an 11-character code issued once your identity is verified. It links all your company roles for future filings. You’ll need it for annual submissions like your Corporation Tax return.
Can my accountant or agent do the verification for me?
Yes. An accountant registered as an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP) can verify your identity on your behalf. This is faster and ensures filings meet Companies House standards. We explore that process in more detail in our upcoming guide on using an Authorised Agent for identity verification.
What happens if I miss the deadline?
You’ll be unable to act as a director or file documents. The company could face late penalties or risk being struck off. Read more about potential outcomes in our guide on Companies House and HMRC fines.
Do I need to verify again if I manage more than one company?
No. Your Companies House personal code applies across all UK companies you’re linked to. Once verified, you’re covered for future directorships and PSC roles.
Is this part of a bigger compliance shift?
Yes. Identity verification is part of the UK’s move toward digital compliance, similar to Making Tax Digital for VAT and other HMRC reforms. These changes make company data more secure and filings more transparent.
Disclaimer: The preceding information is not legal advice. This content is aimed to provide general guidance. For more formal or legal advice, contact Sleek directly.
