Companies House Identity Verification Checker
Check the UK Companies House identity verification deadline for your role. Under the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023, all company directors, persons with significant control (PSCs), and those who file on behalf of companies must verify their identity with Companies House. The new requirements start on 18 November 2025 with a 12-month transition period. Select your role to see your deadline, what documents you need, and the key steps to comply.
What Is Companies House Identity Verification?
The Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023 (ECCTA) introduced a requirement for all individuals associated with UK companies to verify their identity with Companies House. This is one of the most significant reforms to the UK's company registration framework in decades, designed to combat economic crime, money laundering, and the misuse of corporate structures. The identity verification requirement applies to company directors, persons with significant control (PSCs), and anyone who files documents with Companies House on behalf of a company (including accountants, solicitors, and company secretaries acting as authorised agents).
The requirement was phased in starting 18 November 2025. From this date, all new appointments of directors and PSCs require identity verification at the time of appointment. Existing directors, PSCs, and filing agents have a 12-month transition period, meaning they must complete verification by 18 November 2026. Failure to verify identity within the required timeframe may result in the individual being unable to act in their role, and continued non-compliance could lead to criminal offences and penalties.
How Identity Verification Works
Identity verification can be completed in two ways: directly with Companies House through their online service, or through an authorised corporate service provider (ACSP) such as a solicitor, accountant, or company formation agent who has themselves been verified and registered with Companies House. The direct verification process requires the individual to provide photographic identity documents (such as a passport or driving licence), which are checked using digital identity verification technology. The process is designed to be completed online in most cases.
For those who cannot verify online (for example, because they do not have suitable identity documents or cannot use the digital service), Companies House is providing alternative verification routes through ACSPs. ACSPs can verify identity using a broader range of documents and methods, including in-person verification. This ensures that the requirement is accessible to all individuals, including those who may face barriers to digital verification.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does Companies House identity verification become mandatory?
The identity verification requirement starts on 18 November 2025. From this date, all new directors and PSCs must verify their identity at the time of appointment. Existing directors, PSCs, and filing agents have a 12-month transition period and must complete verification by 18 November 2026.
What documents do I need for identity verification?
For direct verification with Companies House, you will need a valid photographic identity document such as a UK or international passport or a UK driving licence. Companies House uses digital identity verification technology to check these documents. If you verify through an authorised corporate service provider (ACSP), they may accept a broader range of documents including birth certificates, utility bills, and bank statements as supporting evidence.
What happens if I do not verify my identity by the deadline?
If you do not verify your identity within the required timeframe, you may be unable to act as a director or PSC, and filings made on behalf of the company may be rejected. Continued non-compliance could constitute a criminal offence under the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023, potentially resulting in fines and other penalties.
Can I verify through my accountant or solicitor?
Yes. Authorised Corporate Service Providers (ACSPs) such as accountants, solicitors, and company formation agents can verify your identity on your behalf, provided they are themselves registered and verified with Companies House. This is particularly useful for individuals who cannot use the direct online verification service.
Is Companies House Identity Verification Checker free to use?
Yes, Companies House Identity Verification Checker is completely free with no sign-up, no login, and no hidden fees. The tool runs entirely in your browser — your data never leaves your device.