Companies House is introducing new identity verification requirements in 2025 as part of a wider reform under the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act. These changes aim to improve corporate transparency and combat fraud by ensuring that all individuals involved in UK companies are who they claim to be.
Who Will Need to Verify Their Identity?
Identity verification will apply to the following individuals:
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Company directors
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People with significant control (PSCs)
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Anyone filing information on behalf of a company (e.g., accountants or agents)
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Members of LLPs and other registered entities
When Will This Take Effect?
While an exact date has not yet been confirmed, Companies House expects these requirements to go live later in 2025. The changes will apply to both existing companies and newly incorporated ones. Identity verification will become a mandatory part of the company formation process.
How Will Identity Be Verified?
There will be two main ways to verify your identity:
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Directly through Companies House – using a new digital process.
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Through an authorised agent – such as your accountant or company formation agent, who is registered with Companies House.
Each individual will only need to verify their identity once. Once verified, they can be associated with multiple companies without having to repeat the process.
Why Is This Important?
These changes aim to prevent fraudulent companies from being registered and to increase trust in the UK business environment. Failing to verify your identity when required will be a criminal offence and may result in sanctions, such as not being able to form or manage a company.
What Should Businesses Do Now?
Although the verification system is not yet live, business owners and company directors should prepare in advance. Make sure you and anyone involved in your company will be ready to complete identity checks when required.
Working with a professional, such as your accountant, will make the process easier and ensure full compliance.
At Lucas Prestige Accountants, we’re ready to support our clients through the transition and offer identity verification services through our agent account with Companies House.
Questions?
If you’re unsure how the new rules affect you, contact us today for personalised guidance.