Companies House Directors and PSCs ID verification

Companies House ID verification is being introduced to improve transparency across UK companies.

If you are a company director, hold more than 25% of the shares or voting rights in a company (Person with Significant Control/PSC), a member of a Limited Liability Partnership (“LLP”) or someone who files documents with Companies House, change is already underway, and you will need to take action. The Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023 (“ECCTA”) is in the process of introducing various changes to company law, one of which is the introduction at Companies House of compulsory identity verification, aiming to make business more transparent, secure, and trustworthy. Here’s what you need to know.

Who needs Companies House ID verification?

You will need to complete Companies House ID verification if you are any of the following:

• Company directors (including those overseas)
• Persons with Significant Control (PSCs)
• LLP members
• Anyone filing documents with Companies House

The timeline: what is happening and when?

• 18 November 2025: Identity verification will become compulsory on new incorporations for directors, PSCs and members of LLPs. For existing company directors, PSCs and members of LLPs, they will have a 12-month period starting from 18 November 2025 to have their identity verified when or before their next confirmation statement is due.
• Spring 2026 (exact date still be to announced at the time of writing): Identity verification will be compulsory for anyone filing a document at Companies House (i.e., individuals employed by companies and LLPs) and third-party agents filing on behalf of companies and LLPs will need to be registered as an “Authorised Corporate Service Provider”.
• End of 2026: The transition period of 12-months for individuals to have their identity verified comes to an end. Companies House will have powers to raise fines/penalties and take enforcement action against any non-verified individuals.

Step-by-step guide to Companies House ID verification

GOV.UK ID Check app: For most individuals free identity verification using https://www.gov.uk/using-your-gov-uk-one-login/proving-your-identity  is the simplest and most efficient method to verify your identity. This can be completed over an app, on a browser or, if directed, via the Post Office to complete the application.

Alternatively, you can also ask an ACSP (an “Authorised Corporate Service Provider”) to verify your identity on your behalf. ACSPs include solicitors/accountant firms who are registered as an ACSP with Companies House.

Three top tips for Companies House ID verification

• Important tip! Do a Companies House search of all companies of which you are a director/PSC/LLP member. Ensure your name is identical across all Companies House records. Any discrepancies such as differences in spelling, abbreviations or inclusion/exclusion of middle names, may prevent you from obtaining “verified status” across all companies and roles. We recommend as a first step that you take a moment to check your details on Companies House and make the relevant filings to amend them so they are identical to your identity documents (which you will use to verify). We can help make any necessary amendments.
• ID ready! Make sure you hold the appropriate identity documents to self-verify (see: Verify your identity for Companies House - GOV.UK) and ensure these are up to date!
• Keep your unique code safe! When you have completed the online verification process above you must take a screenshot or write down your unique code when you get it, Companies House will not email it to you. You will need the unique code to link it to your company appointments next time you file a confirmation statement.

Final Thoughts – Companies House ID verification for directors and PSCs

If you file confirmation statements on behalf of a company and the next confirmation statement is due soon after 18 November 2025, you need to remind your directors and PSCs to verify so that you can collate their unique codes before you file the confirmation statement.

If you need support reviewing your Companies House records, updating your company details, or navigating any business-related legal matters, Holmes & Hills' experienced corporate and commercial solicitors are here to help - get in touch today.