What is identity verification
Companies House now checks that directors and people with significant control (PSCs) are who they say they are. It is part of the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023 and aims to reduce fraudulent company filings.
Who must verify
- New directors, before they are appointed or before a company is incorporated.
- Existing directors, when they file their next confirmation statement during the transition period.
- New PSCs, within 14 days of being registered.
- Existing PSCs, within the 12 months after 18 November 2025, on a date based on their circumstances.
Confirmation statement due?
We file your yearly confirmation statement for a fixed fee. The £50 Companies House fee is included.
Order a confirmation statementGet accounts quoteKey dates
- Verification was voluntary from 8 April 2025.
- It became mandatory for new appointments from 18 November 2025.
- The transition period for existing directors and PSCs runs for 12 months, ending around mid-November 2026.
How to verify
- Verify using GOV.UK One Login, which can be done online or at a Post Office, or use an Authorised Corporate Service Provider.
- Receive a personal code from Companies House.
- File the personal code with a verification statement for each company role held.
Verifying directly is free. Beware of firms charging high fees for something you can do yourself.
What happens if you do not
Failing to verify can lead to enforcement, fines and, for new appointments, the appointment not being accepted. Companies House can also flag the company on the register.
Confirmation statements
Verification statements are filed alongside the confirmation statement. If you want us to handle your yearly filing, see our confirmation statement service or order online.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to verify if I am a director of several companies?
Verify once and use the same personal code for every company role.
Does a corporate director need verification?
Corporate directors and certain other roles come under later requirements. Check Companies House for the latest.
Keep reading
Director Responsibilities for a UK Limited Company
Company directors must follow the Companies Act duties, keep records, file accounts and confirmation statements on time and verify their identity. Failing to do so can bring fines and personal liability.
Companies House and adminWhat Is a Registered Office Address and How Do You Change It?
A registered office is your company's official address for legal post, shown on the public register. It must be a real address in the UK where documents can be delivered, and it is free to change online.
Tax and HMRCUK Tax Deadlines for Limited Companies 2026/27
A small limited company has recurring deadlines for accounts, Corporation Tax, VAT, payroll and confirmation statements. Missing any of them can bring automatic penalties.