Identity Verification at Companies House: What Changing Director ID Rules Mean for Your Business
Understanding the New Companies House Identity Verification Rules
From 18 November 2025, major reforms are coming to the way Companies House operates, part of the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023. One of the biggest changes is the introduction of mandatory identity verification for company directors, People with Significant Control (PSCs), and anyone filing on behalf of a company.
These reforms are designed to increase transparency, prevent fraud, and ensure that only genuine individuals can create or manage UK companies.
Who Must Verify Their Identity
If you’re involved with a UK-registered company, it’s likely you’ll need to verify your identity. The rules apply to:
All company directors both new and existing.
People with Significant Control (PSCs) typically anyone owning or controlling more than 25% of shares or voting rights.
Anyone filing on behalf of a company for example, an accountant or company formation agent.
When the Rules Come Into Effect
From 18 November 2025: New directors must verify their identity before their appointment can be registered.
Existing directors and PSCs will have 12 months to complete the verification process once the system goes live.
Authorised Corporate Service Providers (ACSPs), such as accountants, can verify identities on behalf of clients.
How the Verification Process Works
Companies House will offer two main routes for identity verification:
✅ 1. Direct verification via GOV.UK One Login
Individuals will prove their identity online by submitting official documents (such as a passport or driving licence). Once verified, they’ll receive a unique verification code linked to their Companies House record.
✅ 2. Verification through an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP)
Professionals like accountants or company secretaries can complete the process on your behalf. The ACSP must themselves be registered and supervised for anti-money laundering (AML) compliance.
If you act as both a director and a PSC, you’ll only need to verify your identity once.
What Happens if You Don’t Comply
Failing to verify your identity could have serious consequences:
You may be prevented from acting as a director.
The company could be barred from filing certain documents.
Criminal and civil penalties could apply for non-compliance.
In short — don’t ignore the deadline.
What You Can Do Now
Even though the changes take effect in November 2025, getting prepared now will save time and stress later.
1️⃣ Check who in your company will need to verify
Review your current Companies House register and identify all directors and PSCs.
2️⃣ Ensure personal details are up to date
Make sure all names, dates of birth, and correspondence addresses are correct on the Companies House record.
3️⃣ Speak to your accountant
If you use an accountant or formation agent, ask whether they’ll be acting as an ACSP for identity verification.
4️⃣ Educate your team
Anyone responsible for company filings (e.g. secretaries, administrators) should be made aware of the upcoming changes.
5️⃣ Keep an eye out for official updates
Companies House will issue formal instructions and portal links before the verification system launches.
How Influential Accounting Can Help
At Influential Accounting, we’ll be supporting our limited company clients through the verification process as part of our compliance service.
We can:
Confirm who in your business needs to verify their identity.
Help you update your company records ahead of the change.
Act as your Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP) once registration opens.
📩 Need help preparing for the new rules?
Get in touch today and we’ll make sure your company stays fully compliant when the new system goes live.
Key Takeaway
Every company director and PSC will soon need to verify their identity, so don’t wait until November 2025 to prepare.
Check your records now, speak to your accountant, and make sure your business is ready for the new era of corporate transparency.