From 18 November 2025, Companies House is rolling out new identity verification checks for people involved with a limited company. It’s part of the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023.
The change aims to prevent fraud and misuse of UK companies. While doing this, it also helps legitimate businesses stay compliant, transparent and trusted.
If you’re a company director or Person with Significant Control (PSC), you’ll need to complete an ID verification to continue operating legally. (A PSC owns or controls more than 25% of the business.)
“No one likes extra admin,” says Ugne Jonaityte, Senior Accountant at re:accounts Chartered Accountants in Stevenage. “The ID verification only needs to be done once. It’s essential for running your company responsibly. Once you’ve completed the process, you can relax knowing your business meets the latest Companies House requirements.”
Why the new ID checks matter
The new Companies House ID verification process strengthens the UK’s business transparency rules. Completing your ID check helps:
- Confirm your company is genuine and compliant.
- Build trust with banks, investors, and customers.
- Prevent your company from being used for fraud or money laundering.
As well as being a legal requirement, these checks help protect your reputation and the wider business community.
Who must verify their identity?
The new limited company compliance rules apply to:
- Company directors (existing and newly appointed)
- Persons with Significant Control (PSCs)
- Anyone filing on behalf of a company
- Authorised Corporate Service Providers (ACSPs)
Members of Limited Liability Partnerships (LLPs) must also complete verification.
You only need to verify once, even if you manage multiple companies.
How to complete your ID verification
The process is quick (15 – 20 mins) and can be done online via GOV.UK One using one of these options:
- The GOV.UK One Login app (recommended)
- Security questions online
- A participating Post Office
You’ll need a valid photo ID such as a UK driving licence, passport, or biometric residence permit when you start the process.
Once you complete the verification, you’ll receive your personal code.
Deadlines and next steps
From 18 November 2025, company directors must include their Companies House personal code in the next confirmation statement.
If you’re a PSC, you must provide your personal code within 14 days of your birth month, or separately for each role if you’re also a director.
What happens if you don’t verify your ID?
- You cannot file documents or start a company
- You may face legal penalties
- You could be disqualified from acting as a director or PSC
If your company is a re:accounts client, we’ll contact you to explain the process and your next steps.
