Companies House Begins Identity Verification: What Your Business Needs to Know
Big changes are coming to the way companies are registered and maintained in the UK — and it all starts with identity verification.
As of April 8, 2025, Companies House has officially launched its identity verification service as part of a phased rollout. This is a major step under the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023, which is designed to boost trust, reduce fraud, and improve the integrity of the UK business landscape.
So, what’s happening?
From now, individuals can begin verifying their identity with Companies House, either:
Directly via the GOV.UK One Login service, or
Through an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP) — that's where firms like ours can help!
This new requirement is part of a broader push to ensure that the people running, owning, or controlling companies are exactly who they say they are.
Who needs to verify?
Once the process becomes mandatory (expected in autumn 2025), more than 6 million individuals will need to have completed identity checks. This includes:
Company directors
People with Significant Control (PSCs)
Individuals submitting filings to Companies House
The good news? The process is being introduced in phases to avoid overwhelming companies, and existing directors will be able to verify their identity as part of the annual confirmation statement. That means less admin, fewer surprises, and a smoother transition.
Why is this happening?
There’s a simple reason: to combat economic crime and improve transparency.
Here’s what key voices across government and industry are saying:
“Identity verification will play a key role in improving the quality and reliability of our data and tackling misuse of the companies register.”
— Louise Smyth, CEO of Companies House
“In a time where economic crime has become too common, it is imperative that we bring in measures to prevent identities being stolen online.”
— Justin Madders MP, Minister for Employment Rights, Competition and Markets
“This is a win for businesses, a win for transparency, and a win for economic growth.”
— Feryal Clark MP, AI and Digital Government Minister
What does this mean for you?
If you’re a director, PSC, or file on behalf of a company, you’ll eventually need to verify your identity — and we recommend doing it sooner rather than later. Verifying now during the voluntary window can help avoid delays later, especially as the deadline approaches.
At Zyla Accountants, we’re here to support you through this. Whether you need help verifying your identity, understanding the new rules, or integrating these changes into your company’s compliance processes, we’ve got your back.
Looking ahead
This move has been widely welcomed by business and anti-fraud organisations. Experts believe it will make the UK register more reliable, deter fraudulent activity, and increase confidence in doing business.
“The introduction of these new security measures will be welcomed by the thousands of genuine businesses who want to know that fraudsters and criminals cannot masquerade as legitimate concerns.”
— Shevaun Haviland, British Chambers of Commerce
“We expect our members to be busy advising and helping companies of all sizes adapt to these new regulations.”
— ACCA
Final thoughts
The message from Companies House is clear: Get ahead now to avoid disruption later. Identity verification is a big change, but it’s one that brings real benefits to the UK business community.
If you’ve got questions or want help preparing, reach out to the team at Zyla. We’re ready to guide you through every step.