How to verify your ID for Companies House ahead of rule change

A major rule change is due to come into effect this November which will require all new company directors to verify their identity with Companies House.

This is part of the wider reforms introduced under the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023 (ECCTA), one of the most significant overhauls of UK company law in recent years.

The aim is to crack down on fraudulent business registrations and strengthen corporate transparency.

From 18 November 2025, new company owners will be the first required to comply, while existing directors will have 12 months to complete the identity verification process.

What’s changing in November 2025?

From November, all new company directors and Persons of Significant Control (PSCs) must verify their identity with Companies House before registration.

The rule also extends to new members forming a limited liability partnership (LLP). Existing directors and PSCs will have a 12-month grace period to complete verification, with ID checks requested as part of the annual confirmation statement filing.

The changes don’t stop there. By spring 2026, ID verification will be required from document presenters, too.

And, by the end of 2026, all limited partnerships will need to provide additional information, and the transition period for ID verification will close. Anyone who has still not verified their identity by then may face compliance action.

How to verify your identity with Companies House

While the official rule change is a few months away, it’s already possible to complete voluntary ID verification. We’d recommend getting it done ahead of the deadline, as it’s the best way to avoid delays or complications when identity checks become mandatory.

You have three options for verifying your identity with Companies House:

1. Online via GOV.UK

• Upload your official photo ID (passport, UK driving licence, biometric residence permit, or Frontier Worker permit)
• Provide your current address and the year you moved in
• Complete the process through a GOV.UK One Login account and receive your unique personal code

2. Through an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP)

• Accountants, solicitors, and company formation agents can carry out verification on your behalf
• A small fee may apply, but this route can save time for busy founders setting up new businesses

3. In person at the Post Office

• Available for those without a suitable photo ID
• Participating Post Office branches will allow you to verify your identity in person

Why identity verification matters for new founders

From Tuesday November 18th, ID verification will be a legal step for founders registering a new company. It’s part of wider reforms designed to crack down on fraud, weed out fake companies, and build greater trust in UK business.

It’s important to complete the process before the deadline, as missing it could lead to delays, penalties, or even rejection of your company registration entirely.

The process only needs to be done once per person, and taking care of it early will help you avoid unnecessary disruption to trading.