Companies House Identity Verification
From 18 November 2025 onwards all directors and persons with significant control (PSC’s) will need to verify their identity with Companies House
Q: What date do I need to verify by?
A: At the latest within 12 months of 18 November 2025. However, you (and anyone acting on your behalf) will be unable to submit anything to Companies House after 17 November 2025 until all directors and PSC’s identities have been verified.
Q: How do I verify my identity?
A: There are two options;
Direct with Companies House - Use your GOV.UK One Login (you may need to create this), work through the verification process and provide the documents detailed later in this blog
Via an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP) - such as an accountant or solicitor, who is authorised to carry out checks
Q: What documents are accepted?
A:
Biometric Passport from any country
UK photo driving licence (full or provisional)
UK Biometric Residence Permit/Card
UK Frontier Worker Permit
You will also need;
your current address, and the year you moved in
to sign in to, or create, a GOV.UK One Login
Q: How to verify if you don’t have these types of photo ID
A: If you do not have any of these types of photo ID but live in the UK, use the GOV.UK service to find out if you can verify in one of the following ways:
in person at the Post Office
with bank or building society details - you’ll then need to provide your National Insurance number and answer some security questions
Q: If you do not have the required identity documents or information to verify with GOV.UK or at the Post Office
A: You can ask an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP), such as an accountant or solicitor, to verify your identity on your behalf. This is also known as a Companies House authorised agent.
You’ll need to provide suitable identity documents.
Q: I want to use an ACSP, what does that look like?
A: The ACSP must follow strict Companies House rules, such as;
Collect your full name, date of birth and address
Confirm the authenticity of original ID documents
Keep these records and evidence of their check for 7 years
Q: Would I ever need to verify again?
A: Yes - if you change your name or address
Q: What if I don’t verify my identity?
A: A number of things;
you will be committing an offence and could face financial penalties
you will not be able to submit new documents for your company
you will not be able to register a new company
you risk being disqualified as a director
In summary, if you are struggling - reach out for professional assistance.
Q: How much does it cost?
A: It depends;
Do It Yourself - free
Using an ACSP; they will likely charge for this service. Afterall, they are undertaking risk by verifying your identity, they must confirm the authenticity of your ID documents and, they are using their time and skills to provide a service.
Q: Why is this compulsory?
A:
Reduces the possibility of someone making illegitimate filings/submissions for your business
Improve the transparency and accuracy of Companies House records
Reduces the risk of criminals using companies for illegal purposes