From today, 18 November 2025, company directors and people with significant control (PSCs) must verify their identity with Companies House.
The aim is to stop people using false identities to set up or run companies. For most people it is a one-off check, usually done online. But there are deadlines, and the rules differ for new and existing directors.
Who needs to verify
Company directors, including directors of overseas companies registered in the UK
Members of LLPs
People with significant control (PSCs), usually anyone who owns or controls more than 25% of a company
If you are a director of more than one company, you only verify once.
When you need to do it
New directors. From today, you must verify before you are appointed as a director. That includes setting up a new company.
New PSCs. You must give Companies House your verification details within 14 days of being registered as a PSC. If you are both a director and a PSC, each role needs its own step.
Existing directors. You have until your company's next confirmation statement. When the company files it, it must confirm that all its directors have verified.
Existing PSCs. You have a 14-day window to give Companies House your verification details:
if you are also a director, it starts the day after the company's confirmation statement date
if you are not a director, it starts on the first day of your birth month
PSCs give their details through Companies House's separate PSC verification service.
Companies House expects all existing directors and PSCs to have verified within 12 months. You can check your own due dates on the Companies House register.
How to verify
There are two ways:
Online with GOV.UK One Login. This is free. You can verify using the GOV.UK ID Check app, by answering security questions, or by entering your photo ID details and then visiting a participating Post Office.
Through an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP). This is an accountant, solicitor or similar professional who is registered with Companies House to verify identities. They may charge a fee.
Don't post or email your ID documents to Companies House.
Your personal code
Once you have verified, Companies House gives you a personal code.
It belongs to you, not the company.
You use it to link your verified identity to each company role you hold.
Keep it safe and only share it with people you trust to file for you, such as your accountant.
What happens if you don't verify
Directors who keep acting without verifying after their deadline can commit an offence. So can the company and its officers. This can lead to a fine. PSCs who don't provide their verification details can also commit an offence.
Your company may not be able to file its confirmation statement.
You won't be able to become a director of another company or set up a new one.
Companies House plans to show on the public register that you have not verified.
What to do now
Check your company's next confirmation statement date.
Verify your identity well before then.
Keep your personal code somewhere safe.
If your company has PSCs who are not directors, tell them about their own deadline.
Summary
Identity verification is now compulsory for new directors and PSCs. Existing directors must verify by their company's next confirmation statement. It is free online, or an authorised agent can do it for you.
If you would like help with verification or your confirmation statement, book a call or contact us.