ID Verification for Companies House
Additional layers of security introduced by Companies House came into effect on the 25 March 2025.
The Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act (ECCTA) 2023 introduced new identity verification requirements for company directors and people with significant control (PSCs) to help combat fraud and clean up the Companies House register.
Verification of Company Directors and People with Significant Control
Under the new system, if you want to set up a company on Companies House you must have your identity verified either directly through Companies House or by an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP).
Why have these checks been introduced?
For years, and particularly during the pandemic, MPs have been concerned about the ease at which fraudsters could set up seemingly genuine companies on Companies House. The introduction of ID verification is part of wider reforms aimed at bringing trust and integrity back to the Companies House register.
When do the new Companies House verification rules apply?
Voluntary ID checks are in place now (April 2025) but will become mandatory by autumn 2025.
If you are a new director or Person with Significant Control, you must verify your identity at the time of your appointment or the company’s incorporation. If you are an existing director or PSC, you will have a 12-month transition period which will likely coincide with the company’s next confirmation statement deadline.
Where do I find an Authorised Corporate Service Provider
Companies House states that to be an ACSP firms must be registered for anti-money laundering in the UK. Professional firms such as solicitors and accountants are well-placed to be Authorised Corporate Service Providers as they have strict anti-money laundering systems in place and certify identity on a regular basis.
What are the additional requirements for verifiers?
Once verified, a person setting up a company on Companies house will be issued with a unique ID verification number, this tells Companies House who verified them. If it later transpires that the ID was fake, the original verifier is liable.
Penalties for not complying
If you fail to verify your identity with Companies House within the specified timeframe, Companies House can instigate criminal proceedings against you or issue you with a civil penalty. Furthermore, they will not allow you to incorporate a company or file any documents at Companies House.
How do I get my ID verified for Companies House?
Breens Solicitors Southport is an Authorised Corporate Service Provider for Companies House. If you need your ID verifying for Companies House, you can contact the firm on 01704 532890 to arrange an appointment.
The firm’s fees for identifying identify for the purposes of Companies House is £199 + VAT.