Companies House ID Verification

From November 18th, 2025, new rules mean that anyone involved in running a UK company will need to verify their identity with Companies House.

We want to ensure our clients are fully prepared for these changes, so below we’ve broken down what the changes mean, who needs to take action, and how we can help you stay compliant without the stress.

Why Identity Verification Matters

The government is introducing these checks to make the Companies House register more reliable and secure. By confirming who is behind every company, they hope to reduce fraud, strengthen transparency, and stop criminals from hiding behind UK businesses.

In practical terms, this means that if you want to set up, run, or control a company, you will need to prove that you are who you say you are.

Who Needs to Verify?

You will need to complete identity verification if you are:

• A company director

  A member, general partner, or managing officer (the equivalent of a director)

• A person with significant control (PSC)

• Someone who files documents on behalf of a company (e.g., a company secretary)

The good news is that this is usually a one-time process. Once you’ve verified your identity, you won’t normally need to repeat it unless Companies House specifically asks.

When to Verify

The timing of verification depends on your role. Existing directors and PSCs must verify their identity and connect it to their Companies House records from 18th November 2025 onwards. New directors appointed after that date will need to complete verification as part of their appointment or company incorporation.

How the Process Works

There are two approved routes to verification:

1. Using GOV.UK One Login (free service)

   • Verify via an app, by answering security questions online, or at a participating Post Office using your photo ID.

2. Through an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP)- like Revis & Co!

   • ACSPs like us are registered with Companies House and supervised under UK Anti-Money Laundering (AML) regulations.

   • We can complete the identification process on your behalf, saving you the time and hassle.

   • This option may involve a fee, depending on the ACSP you use.

   
   

⚠️ You cannot post or email ID documents to Companies House – only these official methods are accepted.

The Companies House Personal Code

Once verified, you’ll be issued a unique Companies House personal code. This code is tied to you as an individual, not to your company, and it will stay with you wherever your business journey takes you. Think of it like your Unique Taxpayer Reference with HMRC: it should be kept safe and only shared with trusted people who file on your behalf.

You’ll need this code for key actions, including:

• Filing your company’s confirmation statement

• Being appointed as a director

• Registering as a PSC

What Happens If You Do Not Verify

The consequences of failing to verify your identity are serious. You will not be able to start a new company, act as a director, or make filings at Companies House. Continuing in a role without verification could amount to an offence, potentially leading to fines, disqualification as a director, or other penalties.

How We Can Support You

At Revis & Co., we are preparing to act as an Authorised Corporate Service Provider so we can handle the identity verification process for our clients. We will guide you through the steps, ensure your personal code is linked correctly, and help you remain compliant with the new rules.