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From autumn 2025, individuals involved in UK companies will need to comply with new identity verification rules introduced by Companies House. This legislative change is a major step toward improving corporate transparency, tackling economic crime, and ensuring the UK remains a trusted place to do business.
The new rules will apply to anyone who plays a key role in the formation, ownership, management, or filing obligations of a UK company or similar entity. This includes directors, people with significant control over a company (commonly referred to as PSCs), individuals responsible for submitting filings to Companies House, members of Limited Liability Partnerships, and any other relevant officers within a corporate structure. Whether you are establishing a new company or already hold a role in an existing one, you will need to prove your identity to continue operating in that capacity.
The purpose of this reform is to give Companies House stronger powers to detect and prevent misuse of UK companies. By confirming the identity of individuals behind businesses, the government aims to reduce opportunities for fraud, money laundering, and other forms of economic crime. In turn, this enhances trust in the business register and supports a safer and more transparent environment for legitimate enterprises to grow and succeed.
To complete the verification process, there will be two options available. Individuals can verify their identity directly through Companies House by using its website, a new mobile app, or by visiting selected UK Post Office branches. Alternatively, you can choose to verify through a registered intermediary known as an Authorised Corporate Service Provider. As an accountancy firm, Sawford-Bullard can assist you through this route, offering a convenient and secure verification process.
Once your identity is successfully verified, you will receive a Companies House personal code. This code is unique to you as an individual and is not connected to a specific company or role. You may be asked to provide it when others are filing on your behalf, so it’s important to keep it secure, just as you would with your Unique Taxpayer Reference (UTR) for HMRC.
It’s crucial to understand that failing to complete identity verification will carry significant consequences. You will not be able to form a new company, act in key company roles, file any statutory documents, or register as a service provider. In short, your ability to participate in company operations will be blocked until verification is complete.
With these changes set to come into force in a matter of months, now is the time to prepare. We recommend reviewing your company’s current structure, identifying who will need to verify, and having conversations with all relevant individuals to ensure everyone is aware of their responsibilities.
