
✅ New Companies House ID Rules: What Every UK Director Needs to Know
✅ New Companies House ID Rules: What Every UK Director Needs to Know
From 18 November 2025, a major change is coming for all UK companies — and if you're a director or person with significant control (PSC), this one’s for you.
As part of the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023, the government is introducing mandatory identity verification with Companies House. The aim? To improve business transparency and crack down on fraud.
Here’s what you need to know 👇
🔍 What is identity verification?
In simple terms, Companies House wants to confirm the identity of those running and owning companies in the UK. Once verified, you'll receive a personal code you’ll use for future filings and appointments.
Think of it like a digital ID — similar to a UTR number or password — but for your Companies House activity.
👥 Who needs to verify?
This new requirement applies to:
✅ All company directors (new and existing)
✅ Persons with significant control (PSCs)
✅ LLP members
✅ General partners in UK limited partnerships (guidance coming)
✅ Corporate agents (e.g. accountants or company secretaries acting on behalf of others)
❌ Does NOT apply to ordinary shareholders or company secretaries unless they also fall into the roles above.
🧾 What will I receive?
Once verified, you’ll get a unique 11-character personal code — e.g. FT5-15ED-7JY5
.
It’s yours personally, not your company’s
You only verify once
It applies across all your roles and companies
You’ll use it for filings like confirmation statements, or when being appointed as a director
Important: This code won’t appear on the public register, but it’s still sensitive — keep it safe.
🗓️ Key Dates to Know
🗓️ 8 April 2025 – Voluntary verification opens
🗓️ 13 October 2025 – WebFiling moves to GOV.UK One Login
🗓️ 18 November 2025 – Verification becomes mandatory (12-month transition begins)
🗓️ Autumn 2026 – All directors & PSCs must be verified
🧠 How do I verify?
You’ll need:
A valid passport or UK driving licence
Access to GOV.UK One Login
The link from the Companies House email
A quiet 5–10 minutes to complete the process online
At the end, you’ll receive your personal code. Make a note of it — you’ll use it regularly going forward.
🚫 What happens if I don’t verify?
If you don’t complete the process:
❌ You won’t be able to file your company’s confirmation statement
❌ You could lose your ability to act as a director or PSC
❌ Your company may face delays or non-compliance
❌ You could face penalties or even criminal charges
So yes — it’s one to take seriously!
📌 Final Thoughts
I know — it feels like another admin task in an already busy business world. But this one is important, and it's all about protecting your company, improving transparency, and cutting fraud.
If you’re a client of mine, don’t worry — I’ll be sending personalised instructions and walking you through the steps when the time comes ✅
For everyone else: now’s the time to check your Companies House details, make sure they’re accurate, and start preparing your ID for verification.
📖 Want to stay ahead of the changes?
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