From Autumn 2025, Companies House will require identity verification for all company directors, PSCs, and those filing on behalf of a company.
This is part of the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act and aims to reduce fraud, improve transparency, and maintain trust in the UK business register.
Who Must Verify Their Identity?
If you are any of the following, you’ll need to complete ID verification:
- A company director
- A person with significant control (PSC)
- Anyone who files documents with Companies House on behalf of a company
What Happens If You Don’t?
You won’t be able to incorporate a new company
You may be prevented from filing statutory documents
You risk financial penalties or enforcement action
How Does Verification Work?
You can verify your identity in one of two ways:
Option 1: Verify Yourself with Companies House
You’ll be asked to create a personal account on the Companies House portal and upload your identity documents. Guidance will be published in due course, but it’s expected to be similar to other online ID checks (passport or photo ID required).
Option 2: Authorised Agent Verifies on Your Behalf
As an authorised Agent registered with Companies House, Grace Certified Accountants can complete the ID verification for you — securely and correctly.
This may be the preferred option if:
- You want to avoid dealing with Companies House directly
- You want assurance that your submission is compliant
- You are registering multiple officers or PSCs
We offer this service for £75 + VAT per person, completed securely through our agent access.
When Should You Act?
We recommend starting the process early, especially if your company has more than one director or PSC. Companies House will begin enforcing this requirement in Autumn 2025 — and if you’re not verified, your company may be unable to file required returns or accounts.
Need Help?
If you’d prefer us to handle the verification for you, or if you have questions about the process, get in touch.Grace Certified Accountants – Keeping You Compliant