From Autumn 2025, Companies House will introduce mandatory identity verification for all individuals involved in setting up, managing, or filing on behalf of a UK company.
This applies to:
- a person with significant control (PSC)
- a director
- the equivalent of a director – this includes members and general partners
- anyone filing documents with Companies House
At the same time, a 12-month transition period will begin for existing directors and PSCs, who must complete identity verification by Autumn 2026. Companies House expects this to be done in line with your company’s next confirmation statement due date.
Identity verification is either done online directly through Companies House, or by an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP) using an approved online digital identification application.
As a registered ACSP, Goodman Jones is offering a trusted identity verification service to help you stay compliant.
Our service includes:
- Secure identity checks using government-approved methods
- Verification submission to Companies House on your behalf
- Ongoing support to ensure continued compliance
What happens if you do not verify?
- You will be unable to make filings or form new companies or entities
- You may be committing a criminal offence and subject to financial penalties
- Directors who continue in their role without verifying may face disqualification and further legal action.
- PSCs who fail to verify may also be committing an offence.
If Goodman Jones is currently managing your Company Secretarial services, once the new mandatory rules are enforced, we will not be able to carry out these services until identification verification on all individuals affected by this change has been completed. We will be in touch to discuss the requirements further including any additional charges in due course.
If we do not currently act for your Company Secretarial services, and you need assistance with the identity verification requirements, simply reply to this email to receive a tailored quote.
We are here to help you navigate these changes smoothly. Please don’t hesitate to get in touch with any questions.
The information in this article was correct at the date it was first published.
However it is of a generic nature and cannot constitute advice. Specific advice should be sought before any action taken.
If you would like to discuss how this applies to you, we would be delighted to talk to you. Please make contact with the author on the details shown below.
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