From 18 November 2025, identity verification will become a legal requirement for company directors, LLP members and persons with significant control (PSCs). This change is part of the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023, which aims to improve the accuracy of Companies House records and reduce fraudulent activity.
Newly appointed directors, LLP members and PSCs will need to complete verification as part of the appointment process. Existing individuals will need to verify their details when filing their next confirmation statement, starting from the designated start date. There will be a 12-month transition period for most, but some PSCs must act sooner depending on their birth month. Additionally, some companies may have very limited time to complete the identity verification (IDV) of their directors. Existing directors are required to confirm their identity verification at the same time as filing their next annual confirmation statement within this transition period. Therefore, if a company’s confirmation statement filing date falls in November or December of this year or early 2026, they will not have the full 12 months to complete IDV and must act accordingly. In this newsletter, we discuss who needs to act, the available verification methods, and how 3CS can assist.
Why is this being introduced?
Companies House has been encouraging voluntary identity checks since April 2025. These checks have already removed thousands of suspicious or inaccurate entries from the register, including false directorships and misleading information. Making verification compulsory is intended to make it more difficult for fraudulent actors to hide behind incorrect data, while strengthening trust in corporate transparency and the UK business environment.
Who needs to comply?
The requirement applies to all company directors, designated members of LLPs and PSCs, regardless of whether they are based in the UK or overseas. Company secretaries are not currently required to verify, but this may change in the future. Failure to verify within the set deadlines could result in criminal penalties, financial sanctions, or restrictions on acting in certain corporate roles. Businesses should identify all relevant individuals now and ensure they are ready to complete the process in time.
How can verification be completed?
There are three main routes to complete identity verification:
- Directly with Companies House using the GOV.UK One Login service, available via a mobile app or web browser.
- In person at participating Post Office branches, where trained staff will confirm identity documents.
- Through an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP) that is registered with Companies House and supervised for anti-money laundering purposes.
Once verified, an individual will be issued a unique personal code. This code must be provided when linking the person to company roles or filing relevant documents. Without this code, the filing will be rejected.
What is an ACSP, and why use one?
An ACSP is a professional firm, such as an accountant, solicitor or company service provider, that has been approved by Companies House to conduct identity checks on behalf of clients. Using an ACSP can save time, reduce the risk of errors, and ensure that verification is conducted in accordance with legal and procedural requirements.
How 3CS can help
3CS is one of the Authorised Corporate Service Providers approved by Companies House. We can guide you through the identity verification process, carry out the necessary checks on your behalf, and ensure you receive your personal code promptly. By working with us, you can meet the new requirements without disrupting your business unnecessarily. Contact our team today to arrange your verification and ensure full compliance ahead of the November 2025 deadline.
