From 18 November 2025, it will become a legal requirement for identity verification if you’re a director or Person with Significant Control (PSC) of a UK company. This is part of the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023, aimed at preventing the misuse of companies for illegal purposes.
Why It Matters
From 18 November 2025:
- Failure to comply with identity verification by the deadlines set out may result in fines, disqualification, or even company strike-off.
- All directors and PSCs of a company must be verified and have obtained a Companies House personal code to ensure documents can be filed with Companies House.
- New companies cannot be incorporated, and individuals cannot be appointed as directors or PSCs, unless they have first verified their identity and received a Companies House personal code.
Act Now
The process is straightforward via GOV.UK and typically takes about 10 minutes. We recommend getting it done early for peace of mind.
However, if you’re unable to use GOV.UK, or your company, has multiple and/or non-UK-based directors or PSCs, the process can take significantly longer.
To avoid the risk of delays, late filings, fines, disqualification, or even company strike off, we encourage all clients to take action now.
Who Must Verify
- All company directors (and equivalent roles)
- All People with Significant Control (PSCs)
When to Verify
The earlier, the better.
From 18 November 2025, your company won’t be able to make certain submissions to Companies House unless all its directors and PSCs have completed identity verification and obtained their personal code.
Directors and PSCs will be able to view identity verification due dates for all their roles on the Companies House register. Failure to verify identity by the deadlines set out may result in fines, disqualification, or even company strike-off.
How to Verify
There are three main ways to verify your identity:
- Online via GOV.UK One Login
You’ll need specific photo ID (see the GOV.UK guidance on Verifying your identity for Companies House – GOV.UK). - In person at selected UK Post Offices
Available to UK residents only. Check eligibility on GOV.UK before using this option. - Through an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP)
EOACC is a registered ACSP and can offer this service to our clients. Please get in touch if you will need this service.
Important: Check Your Company Records
Before verifying your identity, make sure your details at Companies House match your ID documents (e.g. full name and date of birth).
If anything is outdated or incorrect, update it promptly. Some changes may require filing a paper form, which takes longer to process.
What Happens After You Verify?
Identity verification is a two-step process:
Step 1: You verify your identity and receive a Companies House personal code (this is unique to you personally, not your company).
Step 2: From 18 November 2025, you’ll use that code to link your verified identity to each of your company roles. (EOACC can assist clients with this step when the time comes.)
More details on Step 2 are still to be released by Companies House.
While every care and attention has been taken to ensure the accuracy of the information contained in this publication, it has been prepared in general terms and does not constitute advice. It should only be regarded as general guidelines. The information may change over time and is not a substitute for professional advice. Users are encouraged to verify the information independently or consult one of our qualified professionals at EOACC LTD for specific guidance. Any liabilities or losses arising, or enquiries raised by HM Revenue and Customs or any other parties, due to the taking or refraining of actions referred to in this publication are not the responsibility of EOACC LTD.