Identity Verification Is Coming to Companies House – Here’s What You Need to Know

If you run a company or file things on behalf of one, there’s a big change coming that you need to know about: identity verification. This new requirement is part of the UK government’s push to clean up company registrations, improve transparency, and crack down on fraud.

In short, Companies House wants to make sure the people listed in charge of companies are exactly who they say they are. And that means providing proof.

Here’s what’s happening, who it affects, and what you’ll need to do.

Under the new rules, several key roles in a company must go through identity checks. This includes:

• Company directors (even if you’ve been one for decades)
• People with Significant Control (PSCs) — typically anyone who owns or controls more than 25% of the business
• Anyone who submits documents to Companies House on behalf of a company, such as company secretaries, accountants, or formation agents

How do you do it?

There will be two ways to verify your identity:

1. Directly through Companies House, using the new GOV.UK One Login system.
2. Through an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP) – this might be your accountant or company formation agent, as long as they’re supervised under anti-money laundering regulations.  We are authorised to do this, although we only plan to offer the service to our own clients.

The process is expected to be quick and straightforward. And the good news is: you only need to do it once — even if you’re involved with multiple companies.

When is it happening?

The rollout starts on 8 April 2025, when identity checks will be available on a voluntary basis.

Later in 2025, identity verification will become mandatory for new directors, and Autumn 2026 is the deadline for existing Directors. If you haven’t completed it by then, Companies House could block your filings or even refuse to list you as a director or PSC.

What happens if you don’t verify?

• You may be committing a criminal offence
• Companies House could reject your filings
• You might be removed from company records
• You could face fines or other penalties

Why is this happening?

This change is part of the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act, which aims to stop dodgy companies being created with fake names and details. It’s all about creating a more trustworthy and accurate public record.

What should you do now?

• If you’re a director or PSC, get ready to complete the identity check before Autumn 2026 2025.
• If you’re an accountant or company secretary, check whether you need to register as an ACSP.
• Keep your eye on updates from Companies House, and watch out for official communications about timelines and processes.

This is one of the biggest shake-ups we’ve seen in company law for years. If you’ve got questions, don’t panic, we’ll guide you through the changes and let you know exactly what to do and when. No jargon, no stress.

Source: Companies House – https://changestoukcompanylaw.campaign.gov.uk/

 Get in touch info@anotheranswer.co.uk or call 01628 530805.