In the UK, new rules are being introduced requiring individuals who set up, run, own, or control a company to verify their identity with Companies House. This legal requirement is part of wider reforms aimed at increasing transparency, preventing fraud, and strengthening trust in the corporate system.
Why Identity Verification Is Required
The verification process is designed to confirm that individuals involved with UK companies are genuinely who they claim to be. By doing so, Companies House aims to:
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Reduce the risk of fraud
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Improve the accuracy and reliability of information on the public register
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Increase trust in the UK business environment
Who Must Verify Their Identity?
Identity verification applies to anyone involved in the management, ownership, or filing obligations of a company, including:
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Directors
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The equivalent of directors, such as members, general partners, and managing officers
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Persons with Significant Control (PSCs)
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Authorised Corporate Service Providers (ACSPs) – also known as Companies House authorised agents
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Individuals who file for a company, such as a company secretary
In most cases, identity verification is required only once. You will not need to repeat the process unless Companies House specifically instructs you to do so.
Additional groups, such as limited partnerships, corporate directors, corporate members of LLPs, and officers of corporate PSCs, will be brought into the process at a later stage.
When to Verify Your Identity
The timing of when you need to complete verification depends on your role and when you took it up. Companies House will provide guidance on deadlines specific to each type of role.
How to Verify Your Identity
There are only official methods for completing verification. You should not send identity documents by post or email to Companies House. Instead, you must use one of the approved digital routes:
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Using the ‘Verify your identity for Companies House’ service
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This free service uses GOV.UK One Login to confirm your identity.
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The process begins with a few questions to determine the most suitable verification method for you.
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Verification methods may include:
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Using an app to scan your ID and confirm your details
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Answering security questions online
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Entering your details from photo ID on GOV.UK One Login and then completing the process at a participating Post Office
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Preparing for Compliance
Although identity verification has not yet been fully rolled out for all roles, it is essential for company directors, officers, and owners to prepare for the change. This means ensuring that your identification documents are valid and that you are registered with GOV.UK One Login.
At Lucas Prestige Accountants, we closely monitor updates from Companies House to help our clients remain fully compliant with new legal requirements. Whether you are setting up a company or already managing one, we are here to guide you through every stage of the process.