In November 2025, Companies House introduced new rules about how individuals interact with their services. These changes don’t require immediate action, but you will need to complete identity verification before you can file or update anything with Companies House.
Here’s what the new process involves and how to stay compliant.
Why Identity Verification Is Required
Companies House now requires anyone involved in running, owning, or filing for a company to prove their identity. This is part of a wider effort to improve transparency and reduce fraud.
Most people will be able to complete the process online. If that isn’t possible, some individuals may be able to verify their identity at a Post Office.
We recommend completing verification as soon as possible, so your company is ready when a filing is due.
Who Needs to Verify Their Identity?
You must verify your identity if you are:
- A company director.
- A person with significant control (PSC).
- Anyone else who needs to file on behalf of the company.
In most small companies, the directors and PSCs are the same people - but not always. If someone owns more than 25% of the shares or voting rights, they are a PSC even if they are not a director.
Accountants and agents will also need to be verified in future, but this will not affect clients directly.
Why This Matters
A company cannot file its confirmation statement until all directors and PSCs have verified their identity.
If a confirmation statement becomes significantly overdue, Companies House may begin the process of winding up the company, so it’s important to complete verification well before any deadlines.
The Identity Verification Process
Identity verification has two stages:
1. Verify your identity with Companies House
Most people will start this on a computer. At a certain point, you’ll be asked to download the Companies House app to your phone or tablet to complete the process.
If you have a passport, the app can read the chip and verify your identity quickly and smoothly. A driving licence can also be used, though the passport tends to be the easiest option.
Once completed, Companies House will issue you with a unique personal code.
2. Link your verified identity to each company role
After verifying your identity, you must link it to every company where you are a director or PSC.
- Search for your company on the Companies House website.
- Go to the People tab. At the bottom, you’ll see the deadline for completing verification.
- When the company files its next confirmation statement, you’ll be prompted to enter your personal code via Companies House Web Filing.
You only verify your identity once, but you must link it to each company role you hold.
A Note on Teething Problems
This is a brand‑new requirement, and both Companies House and users have experienced some early issues. These are gradually being resolved, but it’s another reason to complete verification well ahead of any filing deadlines.
