From 18 November 2025, new rules mean that anyone involved in running or controlling a UK company will be legally required to verify their identity with Companies House. This change forms part of the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023 and is designed to improve trust in the companies register, reduce fraud, and make the UK a safer place to do business.
As an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP), Richard Riley and Associates can take care of the whole process for you, removing the burden from your in-house team and ensuring your company stays compliant.
Why identity verification is required
The aim of this new requirement is simple: to make sure that the people listed as company directors, persons of significant control (PSCs), and other key roles are exactly who they say they are.
This extra level of transparency will:
- reduce the risk of fraudulent activity
- improve the accuracy of the Companies House register
- help prevent the misuse of UK companies for illegal purposes
Who needs to verify their identity?
You’ll need to complete identity verification if you are:
- a company director (including shadow and alternate directors)
- a person with significant control (PSC)
- a member of an LLP or a partner in a limited partnership
- a company secretary or someone who files on behalf of a company
- an ACSP (such as accountants and solicitors)
In most cases, you’ll only need to verify your identity once, unless Companies House specifically asks you to repeat the process.
What happens if you don’t comply?
Failing to verify your identity could have serious consequences, including:
- criminal offences and financial penalties
- restrictions on filing with Companies House
- being unable to incorporate a new company
- in the most serious cases, potential disqualification as a director
How to verify your identity
There are two main ways to complete identity verification:
- Directly through GOV.UK One Login – You’ll need an account, some personal details, and a form of photo ID such as a passport or driving licence. Depending on your circumstances, you may be asked to:
- use an app for biometric ID checks
- answer security questions online
- visit a participating Post Office
- use an app for biometric ID checks
- Through an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP) – This is often the simplest route. Your accountant, solicitor, or other registered ACSP can complete the process on your behalf. You’ll just need to provide approved identity documents to them.
Your Companies House personal code
Once verified, you’ll be issued with a unique personal code. This code is linked to you (not your company) and will be required when:
- filing a confirmation statement
- being appointed as a director
- being registered as a PSC
Think of it like your HMRC UTR – it’s personal and should be kept secure. Only share it with people you trust to act on your behalf.
When you need to verify
- Existing directors and PSCs will have a 12-month transition period starting 18 November 2025 to complete verification. For directors, this will need to be done within 14 days of your next confirmation statement.
- New directors and PSCs appointed after 18 November 2025 must complete verification before taking up their role.
- PSCs who aren’t directors will generally need to provide their code within 14 days of the start of their birth month after the requirement begins.
How we can help
At Richard Riley and Associates, we are registered as an Authorised Corporate Service Provider. That means we can:
- manage the verification process for you and your fellow directors/PSCs
- ensure your filings are accepted without delays
- help you avoid penalties and compliance headaches
Don’t leave it to the last minute
With penalties for non-compliance and restrictions on company filings, it’s important to get ahead of the curve. Although the mandatory requirement doesn’t kick in until November 2025, Companies House is encouraging people to verify early and over 300,000 individuals have already done so during the voluntary period.
Get in touch with us today to ensure your company is ready. As an ACSP, we can handle identity verification on your behalf and keep your business compliant.