Identity Verification at Companies House.
What Small Business Owners Need to Know
The way UK company information is managed and regulated is changing. As part of wider reforms to company law, Companies House is introducing a new identity verification process. If you run a limited company, are a company director, or act as a person with significant control (PSC), this is something you need to be aware of.
In this blog, we’ll explain what identity verification means, who needs to do it, and how it will affect your business.
Why is Companies House introducing ID verification?
Companies House is modernising its systems to make the register more accurate and reliable. For years, anyone could set up a company with very limited checks. This has made it easier for fraudsters and criminals to misuse UK companies.
Identity verification aims to:
Reduce fraud and money laundering
Increase transparency of company ownership
Make the Companies House register more trustworthy
For small businesses, this means a safer environment to trade in and more credibility when dealing with clients, suppliers, and banks.
Who will need to verify their identity?
The new rules will apply to:
Directors of UK companies
Persons with Significant Control (PSCs) – those who own or control more than 25% of shares or voting rights
Anyone filing information on behalf of a company (such as agents or accountants)
If you’re a company director, you won’t be able to take up your appointment until your identity has been verified.
How will identity verification work?
There will be two main routes:
Directly with Companies House – you’ll upload proof of ID (such as a passport or driving licence) and a live photo. Companies House will use matching technology to confirm your identity.
Through an Authorised Agent – if you work with an accountant or tax adviser (like PJE), we’ll be able to verify your identity for you as part of the company formation or filing process. This could save you time and reduce admin.
What happens if you don’t verify?
Identity verification will become a legal requirement. If you don’t complete the process, you won’t be able to act as a director or PSC. Companies House will also have stronger powers to query and reject filings where people haven’t verified their identity.
What should small business owners do now?
You can prepare by:
Making sure your personal information (passport, driving licence, etc.) is up to date
Checking your company records at Companies House are accurate
Speaking with your accountant about whether they can handle the verification process for you
You can read more detail about when you need to verify on the official Companies House guidance.
At PJE, we’ll guide our clients through the new requirements so you stay compliant without added stress.
Final thoughts
You can prepare by:
Making sure your personal information (passport, driving licence, etc.) is up to date
Checking your company records at Companies House are accurate
Speaking with your accountant about whether they can handle the verification process for you
You can read more detail about when you need to verify on the official Companies House guidance.
At PJE, we’ll guide our clients through the new requirements so you stay compliant without added stress.