Mandatory Companies House ID Verification
Companies House will require all company directors and People with Significant Control (PSCs) to verify their identity. This is no longer optional. Without a verified ID, you won’t be able to file key documents (including your Confirmation Statement), and your company could face penalties or even be struck off the register.
We, Super Financial Limited, will help you what the new identity verification requirements mean and how to complete the ID verification process.
What Is Companies House Identity Verification (ID)?
Identity Verification is the process by which Companies House verifies that the individuals associated with the company are authentic and legally identifiable.
Individuals can prove their identity in the following ways:
- Digital verification (e.g. through GOV.UK One Login), or
- Verification conducted by an ACSP (Authorized Corporate Service Provider) – such as accountants and formation agents.
After the verification is completed, an individual receives a unique verified identity number that must be linked to any company role they hold.
The purpose is simple:
Companies House must know who is running and controlling the UK’s companies.
Who Must Complete ID Verification?
From 18 November 2025, anyone who sets up, runs, owns or controls a company in the UK must verify their identity.
This applies to:
New Director:
Anyone who becomes a director in the future must complete identity verification before their appointment can be officially registered.
Existing Director:
If you are the existing director, you must need to verify your identity before filing the company’s next confirmation statement after the 18 November 2025.
Person with Significant Control (PSCs)
If you are already listed as a PSC, you have up to 12 months to verify your identity, depending on your birth month or if you are also a director.
If you become a new PSC, you must verify your identity within 14 days of being added to the company records.
Unverified individuals cannot act in these roles and filings submitted by an unverified person will be rejected. This is the legal requirement by the company’s house.
Why the ID verification process is Important
if you are the director or PSCs and you do not complete your identity verification, you will not be able to do any companies house fillings, and you would not be able to incorporate your company
You will be committing offence and face penalties and could even be disqualified as a company director.
How to complete your ID verification process
Individuals can verify themselves online by creating a GOV.UK One Login. For most people, provided they have a up to date biometric passport or a UK photo driving licence, and access to a smart phone able to download the GOV.UK ID Check app, this should be a simple process.
Individuals must start their application online, but those who cannot complete the verification steps online can complete the process in person at a Post Office. Alternatively, verification can be completed by providing bank or building society details, National Insurance number and answering some security questions.
Finally, an Authorised Corporate Service Provider, such as an accountant or solicitor may also be able to assist with verification. Please bear in mind that there may be tax and National Insurance implications to consider if the company pays for the cost of assistance with the ID verification process. Guidance on verification can be found on Companies House.
After Your Identity Is Verified
- Your verified status will be recorded at Companies House.
- You won’t need to verify again unless your personal information changes significantly.
- Companies House will check future filings to make sure that only verified individuals are involved.
- Anyone becoming a new director must complete identity verification before their appointment can be officially registered
Why Has ID Verification Become Mandatory?
Companies House has outlined several reasons for requiring identity verification:
- Reducing the number of bogus company registrations
- Prevent anonymous control of UK entities
- Improving the accuracy of the information on the register
- Support in combating money laundering and economic crimes
- Improving trust in the business environment
These changes are important to improve transparency in sectors such as construction, freight, retail and financial services.
What Happens If You Do Not Verify Your Identity?
The consequences of non-verification will lead to serious consequences, including:
- Directors: Appointment becomes invalid in accordance with law
- PSCs: The register will show them as unverified, increasing the risk of investigation.
- Agents: Their filings will be automatically rejected.
- Companies: There may be proceedings up to financial penalties, blockages, or removal of the company from the register.
Challenges Companies Face
From our work with clients, we see several recurring issues:
- Directors are not aware of the new legal requirements
- Difficulties in digital verification for PSCs abroad
- Delay due to incorrect or outdated personal information.
- Attempting to file without a verified ID number
These challenges highlight the importance of early preparation and professional guidance.
How Super Financial Limited Helps
We provide full support and facilitation to your business or company. Our services include:
- Full Companies House Compliance Check
- ID Verification through our ACSP status
- Easy On-boarding of Directors and PSCs
- Guidance for non-UK residents
- Company records and registers
- Ongoing support for filings and company maintenance support
Conclusion
The introduction of compulsory identity verification is one of the biggest regulatory shifts for UK companies in decades. Under the strict supervision of Companies House, it is now mandatory that every director, PSC, and filing agent completes the identity verification in a timely manner.
Super Financial Limited is here to support you through this transition.
If you need help completing identity verification or keep your business fully compliant, contact us at:
📧 info@superfinancial.co.uk
02089250070
We provide professional guidance to keep your business fully safe and satisfied in accordance with the new requirements of Companies House.
