Identity Verification Service

Why the Companies House Identity Verification Changes Matter in 2025–26

You may have received communications regarding Companies House identity verification, but what does this mean in practice?

From 18 November 2025, identity verification becomes a legal requirement under the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act. This legislation strengthens Companies House’s powers and introduces mandatory identity checks to improve transparency and reduce economic crime.

This is not an optional administrative update — it is a statutory obligation.

From 18 November 2025, identity verification will be mandatory for:

• New directors of UK companies
• Persons with Significant Control (PSCs)
• Members of LLPs and equivalent managing roles

Without completed verification, Companies House may reject filings or prevent appointments from being registered.

Phased Roll-Out — Important Deadlines for Companies House Compliance

Although 18 November 2025 marks the introduction of director identity checks UK wide, the implementation is phased over 12 months.

Key timing points include:

• New directors and PSCs must complete identity verification before appointment from 18 November 2025.
• Existing directors and LLP members must complete verification before their next Confirmation Statement identity verification requirement following that date.
• Existing PSCs may have a 14-day window to provide their verified details depending on the circumstances.

While there is a transition period, leaving verification until your Confirmation Statement deadline could create unnecessary risk.

How to Complete Your Companies House Identity Verification

There are two main routes:

1. GOV.UK One Login

You can complete identity verification directly through the official online portal by submitting approved identification such as a passport or driving licence.

2. Through an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP)

Alternatively, you can verify through a regulated accountant or professional firm registered for anti-money-laundering supervision.

Many directors prefer this route to ensure accuracy and avoid rejected submissions.

At Hysons, we manage the Companies House identity verification process on your behalf, ensuring:

• Verification is completed correctly
• Personal codes are securely recorded
• Confirmation Statement identity verification requirements are met
• Companies House filings remain compliant

Once verified, you will receive a unique personal code. With your permission, we can securely use this code for future filings to reduce administrative burden and compliance risk. Contact us today.

Who Qualifies Under PSC Verification Requirements?

A Person with Significant Control (PSC) is someone who owns or exercises significant influence or control over a company.

Under Companies House rules, you qualify as a PSC if you meet one or more of the following conditions:

1. You own more than 25% of the shares.
2. You control more than 25% of the voting rights.
3. You have the right to appoint or remove the majority of directors.
4. You exercise significant influence or control, such as holding veto rights or directing decision-making.
5. You control a trust or firm that itself meets one of the above conditions.

For simple owner-managed companies, this may be straightforward. However, in businesses involving holding companies, family trusts, or layered ownership structures, determining PSC status can be more complex.

Reviewing your structure in advance of the Companies House identity verification 2025 deadline is strongly recommended.

Key Dates to Remember

• 18 November 2025 – Mandatory identity verification begins
• Within 12 months – Existing directors and PSCs must complete verification
• Before appointment – New directors and PSCs must verify

These dates are central to maintaining Companies House compliance under the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act.

What Happens If You Do Not Verify My Identity?

Failure to comply with PSC verification requirements or director identity checks UK regulations may result in:

• Rejected Companies House filings
• Inability to register appointments
• Potential criminal offences for the company and its officers
• Increased scrutiny from Companies House

With Companies House now granted enhanced enforcement powers, compliance is more important than ever.

How Hysons Can Help With PSC Identity Verification

Hysons, Chartered Accountants, offer a dedicated Director and PSC Identity Verification Service designed to ensure your business remains fully compliant with Companies House requirements.

Our PSC Identity Verification service includes:

• Reviewing your company structure to identify PSCs
• Assessing your PSC verification requirements
• Updating Companies House records
• Managing the full identity verification process
• Supporting Confirmation Statement identity verification
• Advising on ongoing Companies House compliance

We offer a fixed-fee PSC and director identity verification service from £200 plus VAT.

This provides clarity, compliance and peace of mind — without the risk of missed deadlines or rejected filings.

If you are unsure whether you qualify as a PSC, or need assistance preparing for Companies House identity verification 2025, our team would be pleased to assist.