Companies House identity verification: what UK businesses need to know

Transition from voluntary to compulsory

Starting from 8 April 2025, there has been a voluntary phase where individuals can optionally verify their identity with Companies House.

According to the Companies House transition plan for ECCTA, mandatory enforcement will begin by late Autumn 2025 for company incorporations and new director, LLP member, and PSC appointments.

A 12-month transitional period will be provided for existing directors, LLP members, and PSCs to verify their identity as part of the annual Confirmation Statement filing.

Consequences of failure to verify

Starting in 2025-26, failing to verify identity will be a criminal offence for directors, LLP members, and PSCs, as well as the company – potentially leading to fines.

Unverified individuals cannot be appointed as directors, LLP members or PSCs, and existing individuals who have failed to identify will be marked as ‘Unverified’ on the public register.

What happens after verification?

Once verified, individuals will receive a Companies House unique identifier code, which can be used across different company roles. In most cases, only one identity verification check will be required for individuals, even if they hold multiple directorships and are also PSCs.

How ZEDRA can help

Although some individuals can deal direct with Companies House or use the Post Office to verify their identity, they may prefer to use an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP), who can manage the process assist clients in verifying their identity.

ZEDRA is registered as an ACSP with Companies House, enabling us to fulfil the identity verification requirements for our clients comprehensively. We offer an end-to-end service including the application for unique identifier codes for directors, LLP members, and PSCs.

The ACSP route is particularly suitable for individuals who cannot utilise the Companies House route, such as non-UK directors and PSCs without a biometric passport. Benefits of using an ACSP include reduced data sharing with third parties, and minimising administrative tasks and compliance risks during the identity verification process.

ECCTA is a dynamic area of law with ongoing changes being implemented over the coming years. ACSPs like ZEDRA can assist clients in staying informed about the latest developments.

What should you do next?

• Determine whether you need your identity verified
• If you are a company director, consider which other individuals will need identity verification for their involvement in the company (including PSCs)
• If your identity needs to be verified, contact ZEDRA to verify your identity or apply directly to Companies House
• Undertaking verification now will avoid delays that may occur when verification becomes mandatory

For more information about our IDV service and how ZEDRA can ensure that your obligations under the ECCTA are met efficiently and professionally, please contact Carolyn Arlett.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is required to verify their identity under the ECCTA rules?

Company directors, individuals in equivalent roles to directors in incorporated entities (LLP members, general partners), Persons of Significant Control (PSCs), and individuals making Companies House filings on behalf of a company or LLP.

When will identity verification become mandatory?

Mandatory identity verification begins in late Autumn 2025 for new incorporations and new appointments. Existing individuals must complete verification within a 12-month transition period as part of the annual Confirmation Statement.

What happens if someone does not verify their identity?

Failure to verify will become a criminal offence and may lead to fines. Unverified individuals cannot be appointed to key roles and will be marked as “Unverified” on the public register.

Can one person use a single identity verification for multiple roles?

Yes, in most cases. Once verified, individuals receive a unique identifier code from Companies House, which can be used across multiple directorships and PSC roles.

Who can help with the identity verification process?

Individuals can verify through Companies House, the Post Office, or use an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP) like ZEDRA, which offers a full-service approach.

Why use an ACSP instead of verifying directly?

ACSPs, such as ZEDRA, offer advantages like reduced data sharing, support for non-UK individuals, and lower compliance risk. This is especially useful for those without biometric passports.

Is ZEDRA authorised to perform identity verification?

Yes. ZEDRA is a registered ACSP with Companies House and can assist with end-to-end identity verification, including applying for unique identifier codes.