Every director of a limited company and PSC (Person with Significant Control) will be required to undergo mandatory identity verification at Companies House.
For those already in these roles, there is a 12-month period to comply with the new requirements – that is, no later than autumn 2026. Practically, you have time to complete verification by the date of your next Confirmation Statement submission.
What are the consequences of not complying with the new rules?
- Without verification, you will not be able to submit documents to Companies House.
- The company could even be struck off the register.
- A director who fails to comply risks disqualification.
- Registration of a new company may be rejected.
Sound serious? That’s because it is. The UK government aims to increase transparency and make it more difficult for “shell” companies or entities set up for fraud.
How to verify your identity?
You have three options:
- Via GOV.UK One Login (the simplest and free)
- Using the GOV.UK ID Check app (photo of ID + face scan)
- Through an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP) – e.g., an accounting firm. This option is often paid.
- In person at a post office.
Once verification is successful, you will receive a personal Companies House code – this will be the key for all official filings. Your accountant will not be able to submit any documents to Companies House without this code. Remember to provide it to them.
Why it’s worth doing now
Although the requirement officially starts in autumn 2025, it’s wise to go through the process already.
By doing so:
- You won’t leave it until the last minute,
- You’ll have peace of mind when submitting documents,
- You avoid the risk of blocks and penalties.
Check today whether your documents are still valid and whether your details, such as date of birth, are correct at Companies House. Even the smallest discrepancy can result in verification being rejected.
Cloud Counting Support
At Cloud Counting, we monitor legal changes and help our clients handle formalities stress-free.
If you’re unsure how to best verify your identity, or if you’d like us to do it for you – let us know.
