Companies House ID Verification Explained in Plain English

September 1, 2025

Introduction

From 18 November 2025, major changes are coming to how company directors, people with significant control (PSCs), and other key officers prove their identity. For the first time in UK company law history, Companies House will require ID verification for millions of people. This guide breaks it down in plain English — what it is, who must do it, how to do it, deadlines, and what happens if you don’t.

Why This Change Matters

Until now, setting up or running a company only required providing a name and an address. That system was open to abuse: fake directors, fraudulent companies, and scams registered with little oversight. The new ID checks aim to:
• Reduce fraud and money laundering
• Improve trust in the Companies House register
• Give lenders, suppliers, and the public more confidence in UK companies
For legitimate businesses, this means a stronger reputation and less chance of being linked to fraudulent activity.

Who Must Verify Their Identity?

The rules apply to a wide group of people involved in running companies and similar entities. Those required to verify include:

• New directors – must verify before a company is incorporated or before taking up appointment.
• Existing directors – must verify during the 12‑month transition period, usually when the next Confirmation Statement is filed.
• Persons with Significant Control (PSCs) – new PSCs must verify within 14 days of appointment. Existing PSCs have 12 months to comply.
• Company secretaries – where applicable.
• LLP members, overseas directors, and corporate PSCs – will also be brought into scope in phases.

Timeline and Key Dates

The rollout happens in stages. Here’s a simple timeline:

• 8 April 2025 onwards – Early voluntary verification available using GOV.UK One Login.
• 18 November 2025 – Mandatory verification starts for new directors and PSCs. Existing directors and PSCs enter a 12‑month transition.
• By November 2026 – All affected individuals (over 6 million) must have verified.

How to Verify Your Identity

You can choose from three methods depending on convenience:

• Online using GOV.UK One Login app – scan your passport or driving licence and take a selfie to confirm identity in minutes.
• Online without the app – upload scans of ID and answer security questions.
• In person at the Post Office – available for those unable to use the digital service.

Once verified, you receive a personal authorisation code. This code must be entered whenever you file documents with Companies House. It links you to your verified identity permanently.

What Happens If You Don’t Verify?

The penalties are serious, because Companies House wants to enforce compliance strongly. If you fail to verify:

• You cannot legally act as a director or PSC – doing so is a criminal offence.
• Your company may be blocked from filing confirmation statements, accounts, or changes.
• Filings may be rejected automatically, leaving your business in breach of the law.
• Companies can be struck off the register if officers do not verify.
• You risk financial penalties, enforcement action, or director disqualification.

How A2Z Accounting Solutions Can Help

We know compliance changes can feel overwhelming. A2Z Accounting Solutions makes the process simple and stress‑free:

• Identify exactly who in your business needs to verify.
• Guide directors and PSCs through the GOV.UK One Login process step‑by‑step.
• Act as an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP), meaning we can verify and file on your behalf.
• Keep track of deadlines so you never miss the transition window.
• Ensure all filings include the correct personal authorisation codes.

Final Word: Act Early, Avoid Stress

Millions of directors and PSCs need to complete this process. Leaving it late risks rejected filings, penalties, or even being disqualified as a director. Verification is quick, free, and protects your business reputation. The safest step is to complete it early.

At A2Z Accounting Solutions Limited, we’ll make sure every officer in your company is verified correctly and on time. We’ll handle the details so you can stay focused on running your business.

Contact us today to book a free consultation and let us take care of Companies House compliance for you.

FAQs

Q: When should I verify?

A: You can verify now voluntarily. It becomes compulsory for new directors and PSCs from 18 November 2025, and all others must verify by November 2026.

Q: Do I need to verify twice if I’m both a director and a PSC?

A: No. You only need to verify once. Your personal authorisation code will apply to all your roles.

Q: What if I can’t use the app?

A: You can verify online without the app or go to the Post Office for face‑to‑face verification.

Q: What happens if I don’t verify?

A: You won’t legally be able to act in your role. Your company may be unable to file documents and could face penalties or even strike‑off.