As your trusted accountancy partner, we are committed to keeping you informed about key regulatory responsibilities. One such critical update from Companies House that affects all UK company directors and individuals with significant control (PSCs).

Under the new Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023, all directors and PSCs must verify their identity with Companies House. This measure aims to prevent the misuse of UK companies for illegal activities and will become a legal requirement by autumn 2025.

What You Need to Know:

Mandatory Identity Verification

• Identity verification applies to:
  • All current and future company directors
  • All PSCs
  • Any person delivering documents to Companies House on behalf of a company
• The legislation will be fully enforced by autumn 2025, but early verification is strongly encouraged to avoid delays.
• Non-compliance may result in:
  • Inability to file confirmation statements or other company documents
  • Financial penalties and sanctions
  • Prohibition from incorporating new companies
  • Potential criminal offences for persistent non-compliance

How to Verify Your Identity

You can verify your identity through one of the following methods:

• Online via GOV.UK One Login
  • You’ll need to set up a GOV.UK One Login account if you don’t already have one.
  • Requires suitable identity documents (e.g., passport, driving licence)
    
• In person at selected UK Post Offices
  • You must live in the UK
  • Use the online service first to check eligibility and generate a reference
    
• Through an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP)
  • Examples include your accountant or solicitor
  • The ACSP must be registered and authorised with Companies House
  • You will need to present appropriate ID documents to your ACSP

The Verification Process

• Step 1: Identity Verification
  • Once your identity is verified, you will receive a Companies House personal code.
  • This code is unique and personal—keep it secure.
• Step 2: Linking Your Identity to Company Records (from Autumn 2025)
  • You will use your personal code and submit a verification statement to link your identity to each company role you hold.
  • More details on this step will be provided by Companies House in due course.

Note: If you have previously verified your identity for Companies House, you will not need to do it again unless requested.

Check and Update Your Details

Before verifying your identity, ensure that the information on Companies House records matches your identity documents. Common mismatches include:

• Spelling differences in names
• Incorrect or missing middle names
• Inconsistent dates of birth

You can correct most details online, but some updates (especially related to incorporation documents) must be submitted via paper forms.

Why act now

• Avoid last-minute complications as the deadline approaches
• Directors based outside the UK may need extra time, especially if using an ACSP
• Early compliance demonstrates good corporate governance

How CloudAcc Can Help

Our firm offers comprehensive support to ensure your compliance with Companies House. For further information or assistance, please do not hesitate to get in touch. We are here to support you in fulfilling your obligations.