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The Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023 has introduced changes requiring identity verification at Companies House. This forms part of the UK government’s efforts to tackle economic crime, support economic growth and improve transparency of information on the Companies House Register.
As of 18 November 2025, Companies House made it mandatory for all new and existing company directors as well as people with significant control (PSCs) to verify their identity. This date marked the start of a 12-month transition period during which directors and PSCs must ensure their verification is completed.
Since 18 November:
- New directors looking to incorporate a company or wishing to be appointed to an existing company are required to verify their identity.
- Existing directors need to confirm they have verified their identity at the same time as they file a company’s confirmation statement. A company will not be able to file their confirmation statement without having first verified all directors. Companies should ensure they check when their next confirmation statement is due.
- Existing PSCs need to verify their identity within a 14-day period. This 14-day period differs for each PSC and will depend on if (i) they are already a PSC when identity verification requirements are introduced on 18 November 2025 and (ii) whether they are also a director of the Company.
The identity verification requirements also apply to dormant companies, meaning that directors and PSCs of dormant entities are equally required to complete verification regardless of their “dormant status”.
Once an individual’s identity has been verified, they will receive a personal code through the service, unique to them. This code should be kept secure and may be provided to those authorised to file on their behalf.
Importantly, if you are a director or PSC for more than one company, you will be required to verify your identity for every position you hold.
Identity verification can be completed through the following methods:
- Using the “Verify your identity for Companies House Service”. This can be completed online and is a service that is free to use.
- Through an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP) for a fee. An ACSP is an individual or organisation that carries out anti-money laundering supervised activity. If you choose to use an ACSP you will need to provide approved Identity documents as evidence. This enables the ACSP to complete the required checks and confirm your identity with Companies House. The benefits of using an ACSP include:
- Time saving. Using and ACSP reduces administrative burdens as individuals will simply need to provide an ID document.
- A standardised process.
- Regulated assurance. ACSP’s are authorised and regulated bodies which must meet strict legal requirements, including anti-money laundering regulations.
- Ongoing compliance support. ACSP’s help businesses stay compliant by ensuring any identity checks are completed within the required deadlines.
Backhouse Jones is pleased to announce it is now a registered ACSP, providing outsourced company secretarial services that give business owners clarity, control and confidence.
It is worth noting that identity verification is only one of several ongoing corporate compliance obligations that companies must manage. In addition to ID verification, companies are required to maintain accurate statutory registers, make timely and correct filings at Companies House, and properly document corporate decisions, including written resolutions. To support businesses in meeting these obligations, Backhouse Jones offers comprehensive company secretarial services, acting as company secretary to help ensure continued compliance with all statutory and regulatory requirements.
To ensure your company stays compliant, verify your identity today and avoid potential penalties. Contact Backhouse Jones for tailored guidance on the new Companies House requirements and ongoing company secretarial support.