Companies House Identity Verification – What You Need to Know

June 9, 2025

Written by:

Daniel Scott

Head of Accounting

Companies House Identity Verification – What You Need to Know

You may have received a recent email from Companies House regarding new identity verification requirements under the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023. This is part of a broader government initiative to make UK companies more transparent and reduce economic crime.


Here’s what you need to know – and what you should do next.


What is changing?

From autumn 2025, it will become a legal requirement for the following individuals to verify their identity with Companies House:

  • Company directors
  • People with significant control (PSCs)
  • Anyone delivering documents to Companies House on behalf of a company


This means that simply setting up a company or being appointed as a director will no longer be enough – Companies House will need proof of who you are.


What is identity verification?

Identity verification will involve proving who you are using approved methods, likely to include:

  • Uploading ID documents (e.g. passport, driving licence)
  • A photo or video check to confirm your identity


More details and the official process will be rolled out ahead of the 2025 deadline.


Why is this happening?

The aim is to:

  • Make it harder for fraudulent or fake companies to be created
  • Increase transparency over who is really behind UK companies
  • Improve the overall reliability of the information held on the Companies House register

 

What do I need to do right now?

  1. Forward the Companies House email to all company directors and PSCs, especially if you’re an agent who received it on the company’s behalf.
  2. Stay informed – Companies House will release further guidance and tools in due course.
  3. Complete your verification – link here

 

How we can help

We’ll be keeping a close eye on developments and will support our clients with:

  • Guidance on the identity verification process
  • Help setting up any necessary Companies House accounts
  • Ensuring your company records are up to date and compliant

 

If you have any questions about the upcoming changes or need help reviewing your company structure, don’t hesitate to get in touch.

Optimising Tax Liabilities with Section 431 Elections in the UK | OnTheGo Accountants

Optimising Tax Liabilities with Section 431 Elections in the UK

November 25, 2024
In the realm of employee share schemes, understanding the tax implications is crucial for both employers and employees. One significant aspect to consider is the Section 431 election, a provision under the UK's Income Tax (Earnings and Pensions) Act 2003. This election plays a pivotal role in determining how employment-related securities, particularly restricted shares, are taxed.
Navigating the Intangible Assets: Insights for Tech Startups | OnTheGo Accountants

Navigating the Evolving Landscape of Intangible Assets

November 25, 2024
In today's rapidly evolving business environment, intangible assets have become central to a company's value and growth potential. Traditional accounting standards, however, have struggled to keep pace with the diverse and complex nature of these assets. Recognising this gap, the International Accounting Standards Board (IASB) and the UK Endorsement Board (UKEB) are embarking on a comprehensive review of IAS 38: Intangible Assets, a standard that has remained largely unchanged for over 26 years.
Don't Let HMRC Rejection Derail Your R&D Growth | OnTheGo Accountants

Don't Let HMRC Rejection Derail Your R&D Growth

November 16, 2024
The UK government has been generous in supporting research and development (R&D) through tax relief schemes. However, with increased scrutiny from HMRC, many businesses are seeing their claims rejected, even after initial approval.
Show More