Mandatory identity checks are coming to Companies House

If you’re a company director or hold significant control over a business, there’s an important new requirement you need to prepare for. Earlier this year, Companies House introduced a voluntary identity verification process. Now, as part of the wider reform under the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023, the process is about to become mandatory.

Starting from 18 November 2025, anyone looking to set up a company or become a director will need to verify their identity before they can be appointed. If you’re already listed as a director, you’ll be asked to complete verification when you file your next confirmation statement after the deadline – filing ahead of the 18 November 2025 deadline may give you more flexibility.   

If you’re a person with significant control (PSC) but not a Director, the deadlines are staggered over a 12 month window from 18 November 2025 depending on your birth month.  PSC’s are advised to check their individual deadline on the Companies House website. 

It might sound like a big change, but the good news is that the process is designed to be simple and quick. Most people will be able to verify online using their smartphone by just taking a photo of your face and your ID, and facial recognition software does the rest. If you’d rather not go digital, you can head to a participating post office or an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP) and verify in person.

Once you’re verified, Companies House will issue you an 11-digit personal verification code. This code will be your key for future filings, so do keep it safe!

The move is all about improving transparency and trust in the UK’s corporate register. With up to 7 million people expected to go through the process over the next year, it’s a significant step forward in making company information more reliable and secure.

Now is the time to prepare, so go to www.gov.uk/guidance/verify-your-identity-for-companies-house to start the process. Make sure everyone in your organisation who needs to verify is informed and ready to act. Leaving it too late could mean you’re unable to file documents on time and associated late filing penalties.

For further information, speak to your adviser or contact us.

Specialist advice should always be sought prior to taking any action on matters discussed in this article.

The information contained herein is given by way of general guidance only, is correct and applicable only at the time of delivery and no action should be taken solely on the basis of the information contained herein. Ensors Accountants LLP will be pleased to provide further guidance on the issues, and how they might affect you. No liability is accepted by the firm for any actions taken without seeking appropriate professional advice.