Companies House identity verification is coming: Are you ready?

If you own or manage a creative agency, or any other business as a limited company, major changes are on the horizon for company compliance. From Autumn 2025, Companies House will require identity verification for directors, people with significant control (PSCs) and anyone filing on behalf of your company. Here’s a comprehensive guide to what’s changing, who’s affected and how your accountant can help you navigate the new rules.

What’s changing at Companies House?

The Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023 introduces mandatory identity verification for those involved in running, owning or controlling UK companies. The aim is to improve transparency, reduce fraud, and prevent misuse of the companies register for illegal activities.

Who must verify their identity?

You’ll need to verify your identity if you are:

• A company director (or equivalent, such as a member of an LLP or a general partner)
• A person with significant control (PSC) - typically anyone owning more than 25% of shares or voting rights
• A company secretary or anyone responsible for filing with Companies House
• An Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP) such as an accountant or solicitor registered under UK Anti-Money Laundering regulations

This applies to both existing and new individuals associated with UK companies.

When do you need to verify?

• The voluntary identity verification window opened in April 2025.
• Verification will become mandatory from Autumn 2025, with a phased approach to give businesses time to comply.
• If you’re taking on a new role (e.g. becoming a director) you must verify your identity before or as part of the appointment process.

How does identity verification work?

There are three main ways to verify your identity:

1. Online via GOV.UK One Login: The fastest route, requiring a photo of your face and a valid ID (passport, UK driving licence, or certain biometric residence permits).
   
   
2. At the Post Office: For those who prefer or need face-to-face verification, you can take a barcode from the Companies House service and your photo ID to a participating Post Office.
   
   
3. Through an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP): Accountants, solicitors or company formation agents registered with Companies House can verify your identity on your behalf.

What happens if you don’t comply?

Failure to verify your identity by the deadline will have serious consequences:

• You may be unable to file documents or make changes at Companies House
• Your appointment as director or PSC could be blocked or removed
• You could face financial penalties or be committing an offence

How your accountant can help

Accountants play a pivotal role in helping creative agencies comply with these new requirements:

• Acting as an ACSP: Many accountants are registered as Authorised Corporate Service Providers, meaning they can handle identity verification for you and your team. They’ll ensure the process meets Companies House standards and is completed on time.
  
• Document Management: Accountants already hold much of the necessary documentation for anti-money laundering compliance, making the verification process smoother and less time-consuming for your agency.
• Guidance and Reminders: Your accountant can keep you updated on deadlines, required documents, and best practices, ensuring there are no surprises or compliance gaps.
• Filing Support: Once verified, your accountant can continue to file documents and manage Companies House interactions on your behalf as only verified individuals will be allowed to do so in future.

Key takeaways for business owners

1. Start Early: Take advantage of the voluntary window to verify identities now and avoid last-minute issues.
   
   
2. Review Roles: Make sure all directors, PSCs, and anyone filing on behalf of your company are aware of and prepared for the new requirement.
   
   
3. Leverage Your Accountant: If your accountant is an ACSP, they can streamline the process and handle compliance for you, saving time and reducing risk.

In summary: The new Companies House identity verification rules are designed to protect your business and the wider economy from fraud and misuse. By working closely with your accountant, you can ensure your company remains compliant, secure and ready for the future.