The UK government is tightening company regulations to tackle fraud and improve transparency.
Starting autumn 2025, all company directors and people with significant control (PSCs) must verify their identity with Companies House.
This change comes under the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023. If you’re a director, you can act now to avoid delays or legal trouble later.
Why is identity verification being introduced?
The goal is simple: to stop people from using UK companies to commit fraud, launder money, or hide behind fake identities.
Until now, directors and PSCs didn’t need to prove who they were when setting up or running a company. This created loopholes that criminals could exploit.
The new law closes that gap.
Who must verify their identity?
- All company directors
- All PSCs (usually shareholders with over 25% ownership or voting rights)
- Anyone filing documents with Companies House (in future)
This applies to UK-based and overseas individuals alike.
What happens if you don’t verify?
You’ll be breaking the law.
If you or another director fail to verify in time:
- Your company won’t be able to file confirmation statements or other key documents
- You may face fines or criminal penalties
- You won’t be allowed to form new companies
It’s not just a formality. This affects your ability to run and manage a limited company in the UK.
How to verify your identity
There are three main ways to complete the process:
- Online via GOV.UK One Login
- Fastest method
- Requires photo ID (passport or driving licence) and a selfie
- Secure and available now
- In person at selected UK Post Offices
- Only available to UK residents
- Limited locations
- You must first check eligibility through the online tool
- Through an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP)
- These are authorised accountants, solicitors, or agents
- They verify your identity using your documents
- This option is useful if you’re based overseas or want help from a professional
As an accountancy practice, we are preparing to become an Authorised Corporate Service Provider. If you prefer to verify your identity through us, let us know and we’ll guide you through it.
What to do now
Here’s a quick checklist:
- ✅ Check your own personal details on Companies House (full name, date of birth, etc.)
- ✅ Make sure they match your passport or driving licence
- ✅ Ask your co-directors or shareholders to do the same
- ✅ Choose how you want to verify (online, in-person, or through a provider)
- ✅ Complete your verification well before autumn 2025
Why act early?
Companies House systems will likely face delays as the deadline approaches.
If your company has multiple directors or overseas PSCs, early action gives you time to sort out documents or authorise an agent.
Don’t leave it to the last minute.
Final thoughts
This is one of the biggest changes to UK company law in recent years.
It’s not just about ticking boxes. It’s about keeping your business legally compliant and fraud-proof.
We’re here to help. If you’re a client or need advice about verifying your identity, updating Companies House records, or checking your company’s compliance, get in touch on 01603 669 020.
