Companies House Identity Verification

The UK government is introducing significant changes to company law through the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act. A key change is the new requirement for directors, people with significant control (PSCs), and those filing on behalf of companies to verify their identities with Companies House.

What’s Changing?

From 2024, Companies House will require all directors, PSCs, and relevant individuals to verify their identity before they can form a new company or continue to act for an existing one. The goal is to increase transparency, reduce fraud, and improve the integrity of information on the register.

Who Needs to Verify Their Identity?

New and existing company directors
People with significant control (PSCs)
Anyone filing documents on behalf of a company (e.g., company secretaries or agents)

How Will Identity Verification Work?

There will be two main routes for verification:

Directly through Companies House: Individuals can verify their identity via a digital process on the Companies House portal.
Through an Authorised Agent: Professional firms—like accountants—registered with Companies House as an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP) can verify identities on behalf of clients.

How Can CG Incorporations Help?

At CG Incorporations, we aim to make compliance as straightforward as possible for our clients. Our accountant is registered as Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP) with Companies House and is authorised to verify the identities of company directors and PSCs—whether you are an existing accounting client or joining us as a new accounting client.

If you are forming a UK company or need to update your company records, our accountant can handle the verification process for you. This means less paperwork, less hassle, and peace of mind knowing you are fully compliant with the latest legal requirements.

What Do You Need to Do?

Existing clients: If we already handle your company’s accounts, our accountant can verify your identity with minimal additional steps—just contact us when you receive a request from Companies House.
New clients: We welcome new accounting clients and can support your company formation, compliance, and ongoing accounting needs—including identity verification for you and your directors.

Why is Verification Important?

Failing to complete identity verification may result in:

Inability to form a new company
Restrictions on acting as a director or PSC
Potential penalties for non-compliance

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Yes, all existing directors—as well as new directors and people with significant control—will need to complete identity verification to continue acting in their roles.

Yes! While CG Incorporations itself will not, our accountant is fully authorised to verify your identity. We provide this service to both our current accounting clients and to new clients who sign up for our accounting services.

Typically, you will need a valid photo ID (such as a passport or driving licence) and a proof of address. We will provide you with clear guidance on the documents required for a smooth verification process.

Yes, we regularly work with non-UK residents and can guide overseas clients through the identity verification process.

You may not be able to form a new company or continue to act as a director or PSC. There could also be restrictions and possible penalties for non-compliance.

Absolutely! CG Incorporations offers a complete suite of company formation, compliance, and accounting services for UK companies, including for non-UK residents.

Simply contact us or visit our Tax & Accounting Services page to discuss your needs. We’re here to make the process straightforward and stress-free.

Published: 7/4/2025 12:07:12 PM. Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice.
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