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Mandatory Companies House Identity Verification Services. Meet Your Legal Obligations with a Regulated Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP)

The Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act (ECCTA) has fundamentally changed how individuals interact with Companies House. Identity verification is now a key part of the UK's corporate transparency framework, requiring directors, Persons with Significant Control (PSCs), LLP members, and other relevant individuals to verify their identity before carrying out certain Companies House activities.

While Companies House provides its own identity verification route, many individuals and businesses choose to work with a regulated Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP) for professional guidance, managed verification, and support throughout the process.

At Coddan CPM, we help entrepreneurs, UK companies, international founders, and corporate groups complete their identity verification efficiently through our regulated ACSP services, giving you a professionally managed route to meeting your Companies House obligations.

Why Identity Verification Matters
Identity verification is no longer simply an administrative step—it has become an essential part of the UK's corporate compliance framework.

The purpose of identity verification is to help Companies House confirm that individuals acting as company directors, PSCs, LLP members, or other authorised persons are who they claim to be. This supports greater confidence in the integrity of the UK companies register while helping businesses comply with their statutory responsibilities.

If you are:

• Appointing a new company director
• Registering a Person with Significant Control (PSC)
• Forming a new UK company
• Becoming an LLP member
• Filing on behalf of a company through regulated channels
• Managing multiple Companies House appointments

identity verification may form part of your legal compliance obligations.

Professional Identity Verification Through Coddan CPM
As a regulated Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP), Coddan CPM offers professionally managed Companies House identity verification services for both UK residents and eligible overseas applicants.

Rather than navigating the process alone, our compliance specialists guide you through each stage, helping you understand the most appropriate verification pathway based on your individual circumstances.

Our services include:

• Digital identity verification where appropriate.
• Expert manual verification for eligible complex cases.
• Verification support for UK and overseas applicants.
• Dedicated compliance assistance throughout the process.
• Secure document handling.
• Companies House identity verification submission through our regulated ACSP service.
• Guidance regarding your Companies House Personal Code where applicable.

Your Enterprise Identity Verification Journey

The Enterprise Identity Verification Suite™ follows a structured, professionally managed process designed to simplify compliance for directors, People with Significant Control (PSCs), and organisations managing multiple corporate officers. From document collection through to Companies House recognition, each stage is overseen by our experienced compliance specialists.

Step 1 — Submit Your Details & Identity Documents
After placing your order, you will receive secure instructions for providing your identity documents and supporting information. Our team coordinates submissions for UK residents, overseas applicants, and organisations requiring verification for multiple directors or PSCs, ensuring the correct documentation is gathered before the verification process begins.

Step 2 — Human-Led Identity & Compliance Review
Before any verification request is submitted, our specialists carry out a detailed Identity Document Validation Technology (IDVT) and compliance review. This includes checking document quality, consistency of personal information, and any supporting evidence required for successful verification. Where clarification is needed, we contact you promptly to minimise delays.

Step 3 — ACSP Verification & Companies House Submission
Once the documentation has been successfully reviewed, your identity verification is completed through Coddan CPM's regulated Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP) framework. Following successful verification, the information is submitted in accordance with the Companies House verification process, helping ensure your verified status can be recognised for your corporate appointments.

Step 4 — Receive Your Personal Code & Ongoing Support
Where applicable, Companies House issues each verified individual with a unique 11-character Personal Code. We explain how this identifier should be used for future appointments and electronic filings, and remain available to assist with company formation, statutory filings, board changes, Confirmation Statements, and wider corporate governance requirements.

From Document Submission to Long-Term Compliance—Every Stage Managed by Experienced ACSP Professionals.

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Choose the Identity Verification Service That Matches Your Needs

Every applicant is different. Some require a straightforward verification process, while others need additional professional support because of international documentation, previous verification difficulties, or more complex corporate structures.

Our Identity Verification Service Hub has been designed to help you select the most appropriate solution for your circumstances.

Whether you require:

• Standard identity verification
• Fast-track professional assistance
• Expert hybrid verification
• Manual specialist verification
• Overseas director verification
• Complex compliance support

Coddan CPM provides a managed pathway designed around your specific requirements.

Why Businesses Choose a Regulated ACSP

Many applicants successfully complete identity verification independently. Others prefer the reassurance of working with a regulated corporate service provider that specialises in UK company compliance.

Businesses choose Coddan because we provide:

• Regulated ACSP services.
• Experienced compliance professionals.
• Support for UK and international applicants.
• Secure verification processes.
• Practical guidance throughout the application.
• Assistance that extends beyond identity verification into wider Companies House compliance and company secretarial services.

Our objective is not simply to help you complete a verification process but to support your wider corporate compliance journey.

Who Should Use This Service?
Our Companies House identity verification services are suitable for:

• Company directors.
• Persons with Significant Control (PSCs).
• LLP members.
• UK residents.
• Overseas directors and international entrepreneurs.
• Newly incorporated companies.
• Existing companies updating their corporate records.
• Investors joining UK businesses.
• Professional advisers acting on behalf of clients.

What Happens After You Place Your Order?

Once your order is received, our compliance team begins managing your application.

Your journey typically includes:

1. Assignment to the appropriate verification pathway.
2. Secure submission of identity evidence.
3. Professional review of your documentation.
4. Identity verification through the applicable ACSP process.
5. Submission through the relevant Companies House verification channel.
6. Confirmation once the verification process has been successfully completed.
7. Guidance on your next compliance steps, including your Companies House Personal Code where applicable.

Throughout the process, our specialists remain available to answer questions and provide support.

A Smarter Approach to Companies House Compliance

Identity verification is only one part of maintaining a compliant UK company.

Through Coddan CPM, you can access a complete range of corporate compliance services, including company formation, director appointments, registered office services, PSC services, company secretarial support, statutory filings, and ongoing compliance assistance.

By combining identity verification with professional corporate support, you can manage your Companies House obligations through a single regulated provider.

Start Your Companies House Identity Verification Today
Whether you are verifying your identity for the first time, joining a UK company, acting as a PSC, or managing multiple appointments, Coddan CPM provides professionally managed identity verification services tailored to your circumstances.

Explore our Identity Verification Service Hub to compare our specialist verification packages and choose the solution that best meets your Companies House compliance requirements.

Identity Verification for a Wide Range of UK Business Structures

Identity verification is not limited to directors of private companies limited by shares. As a regulated Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP), Coddan CPM can assist eligible individuals connected with a broad range of UK business structures that are subject to the Companies House identity verification regime.

Our Enterprise Identity Verification Suite™ supports identity verification for officers and relevant individuals associated with:

• Private companies limited by shares (Ltd)
• Companies limited by guarantee (CLG)
• Public limited companies (PLC)
• Unlimited companies (Unltd)
• Limited Liability Partnerships (LLPs)
• Community Interest Companies (CICs)
• Co-operative societies and other registered societies, where applicable under the relevant regulatory framework
• Partnerships and other registered business entities where Companies House identity verification requirements apply to the relevant individuals

Whether you are incorporating a new organisation, appointing directors or members, restructuring an existing entity, or managing a complex corporate group, our compliance specialists provide a consistent, professionally managed verification process through our regulated ACSP framework.

Rather than focusing on a single type of company, the Enterprise Identity Verification Suite™ has been designed to support the diverse legal structures used across the UK. This enables entrepreneurs, charities, social enterprises, professional partnerships, corporate groups, and other organisations to complete their identity verification obligations through one experienced compliance partner while benefiting from ongoing governance and company secretarial support.

One Regulated ACSP. Multiple Business Structures. One Consistent Approach to Companies House Compliance.

Identity Verification Under the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act (ECCTA)

The Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023 (ECCTA) represents one of the most significant reforms to UK company law in recent years. The legislation expands the role of Companies House from a passive register to a more active gatekeeper of corporate information, introducing mandatory identity verification for individuals who own, control, or manage UK registered entities.

As the ECCTA reforms are implemented, identity verification becomes a legal requirement for a growing number of individuals interacting with Companies House. The purpose is to improve the accuracy of the public register, strengthen corporate transparency, and reduce the misuse of UK corporate structures for fraud and other economic crime.

Who Must Complete Identity Verification?

Under the ECCTA framework and the phased implementation of the Companies House reforms, identity verification applies to eligible individuals including:

• Company Directors appointed to UK registered companies.
• People with Significant Control (PSCs) who meet the statutory ownership or control thresholds.
• Members and designated members of Limited Liability Partnerships (LLPs) where applicable.
• Relevant Legal Entities (RLEs) acting as registrable controllers, where the legislation requires associated individuals to verify their identity through the applicable Companies House process.
• Individuals submitting information to Companies House on behalf of companies, where verification is required under the new filing regime.

Understanding the Implementation Timetable
The identity verification requirements are being introduced in phases as Companies House implements the ECCTA reforms. New directors and PSCs will generally be required to complete identity verification before carrying out activities that require verified status, while existing office holders are expected to verify their identity during the transitional implementation period specified by Companies House.

As the implementation timetable continues to evolve, businesses should ensure they understand the deadlines that apply to their organisation and take appropriate steps to complete verification before filing obligations or corporate appointments are affected.

Completing Verification Through a Regulated ACSP
The legislation allows eligible individuals to complete identity verification either through the Companies House self-service route or through a regulated Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP). Coddan CPM is authorised to provide this service, enabling us to verify eligible directors, PSCs, and other relevant individuals in accordance with the Companies House identity verification framework while providing professional guidance throughout the process.

ECCTA Has Changed How Companies House Operates. Ensuring Your Directors and Controllers Are Verified Is Now a Fundamental Part of Corporate Compliance.

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Why Identity Verification Is Now Mandatory

The Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023 (ECCTA) represents the most significant reform of Companies House in decades. As part of these reforms, mandatory identity verification began on 18 November 2025, introducing new legal requirements for individuals who set up, own, manage, or control UK companies.

The objective is straightforward: to improve the accuracy and reliability of the Companies House register, strengthen corporate transparency, and make it more difficult for companies to be established or managed using false or stolen identities. Identity verification helps ensure that the individuals recorded on the public register are genuinely the people responsible for running and controlling UK businesses.

Who Needs to Verify Their Identity?

Identity verification applies to individuals in key corporate roles, including:

• Company directors.
• Persons with Significant Control (PSCs).
• Individuals incorporating new UK companies.
• Other categories that are being introduced as Companies House continues to implement the reforms in phases.

For new directors, identity verification is required before they can be appointed or incorporate a new company. Existing directors and PSCs are being brought into the new framework through a phased implementation process linked to Companies House requirements.

How Can You Verify Your Identity?
Companies House provides two recognised verification routes:

• Directly with Companies House using the GOV.UK One Login service.
• Through a regulated Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP), such as Coddan CPM.

While many applicants successfully complete verification themselves, others prefer the reassurance of working with an experienced ACSP, particularly where they require professional guidance, are based overseas, hold non-standard identity documents, or would like a managed verification process.

Why Many Businesses Choose an ACSP

Identity verification is an important compliance requirement, but for many directors it is only one part of a wider Companies House obligation.

By using a regulated ACSP, businesses benefit from professional support throughout the verification process, assistance with document preparation, guidance on the most appropriate verification pathway, and help navigating wider Companies House compliance requirements where appropriate.

Whether you are forming your first UK company, appointing a new director, verifying a PSC, or managing multiple corporate appointments, choosing the right verification route can help make the process more efficient, professionally managed, and aligned with your wider compliance responsibilities.

Common Identity Verification Scenarios

Scenario 1 – I'm Starting My First UK Company
You're forming a new private limited company and need to complete identity verification before or during the incorporation process. Our regulated ACSP can verify your identity and, if required, incorporate your company as part of the same managed service.

Recommended solution: Company Formation with Identity Verification

Scenario 2 – I Already Have a UK Company
Your company has been trading for years, but you now need to complete Companies House identity verification as a director or PSC. There is no need to transfer your registered office, accountant or company secretary. We simply complete your identity verification as a standalone service.

Recommended solution: IdentityGuard Pro™

Scenario 3 – I'm an Overseas Director
You live outside the United Kingdom but have been appointed as a director or PSC of a UK company. We can complete your identity verification remotely through our regulated ACSP using secure online document verification.

Recommended solution: Overseas Identity Verification

Scenario 4 – My Company Was Formed by Another Agent
Your company was incorporated by another formation agent, accountant or solicitor. You do not need to move your company to Coddan to complete identity verification. Our service is available regardless of who originally registered your company.

Recommended solution: Standalone ACSP Verification

Scenario 5 – I've Just Been Appointed as a Director
You have recently joined the board of an existing UK company and need to meet the identity verification requirements before carrying out relevant Companies House activities.

Recommended solution: Director Identity Verification

Scenario 6 – I'm a Person with Significant Control (PSC)
You have become a Person with Significant Control and need to complete identity verification in accordance with the Companies House requirements. We verify PSCs using the same regulated process as company directors.

Recommended solution: PSC Verification

Scenario 7 – I Hold Appointments in Several Companies
You are a director or PSC of multiple UK companies. Identity verification is linked to you as an individual rather than to each company separately, allowing you to use your verified identity across your appointments where applicable.

Recommended solution: Multi-Company Verification

Scenario 8 – I'm a Designated LLP Member
Your business operates as a Limited Liability Partnership (LLP), and you have been asked to complete identity verification as a designated member. We can verify eligible LLP office holders through our regulated ACSP.

Recommended solution: LLP Identity Verification

Scenario 9 – My Verification Wasn't Successful Elsewhere

You attempted identity verification but experienced delays, document issues or were unable to complete the process. Before resubmitting, we can review your documents and advise on the most appropriate verification route.

Recommended solution: Assisted Identity Verification

Scenario 10 – I Need Verification Quickly
You're working to a filing deadline, bank requirement or business transaction and need your identity verification completed as efficiently as possible. Our priority verification services are designed for time-sensitive cases.

Recommended solution: Priority Verification Package

Scenario 11 – I'm Forming a UK Subsidiary
Your overseas business is establishing a UK subsidiary and the proposed directors require identity verification before the company begins trading. We can coordinate verification alongside company formation and ongoing compliance support.

Recommended solution: Enterprise Identity Verification Suite™

Scenario 12 – I'm Not Sure Whether My Role Requires Verification
Your appointment isn't simply described as "director" or "PSC". You may be a managing officer, designated LLP member or another eligible office holder. We can review your role and confirm whether identity verification is required before you order.

Recommended solution: Compliance Review & Identity Verification

International Founder
A Singapore-based entrepreneur needed to verify their identity before incorporating a UK subsidiary. Verification was completed remotely through our regulated ACSP, allowing the incorporation process to continue without requiring the founder to travel to the UK.

Existing Director
A long-established company appointed a new director shortly before its Confirmation Statement was due. Identity verification was completed before the filing deadline, allowing the company to submit its Confirmation Statement without delay.

IdentityGuard Pro™ – The Fast-Track Route to Your Companies House Personal Code

If you need to meet the new Companies House identity verification requirements quickly and with professional support, IdentityGuard Pro™ provides a fully managed verification service through Coddan CPM's regulated Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP).

Designed for directors, Persons with Significant Control (PSCs), LLP members, and company founders, IdentityGuard Pro™ combines expert compliance support with an efficient verification process, helping you complete this important legal requirement with confidence.

A Faster, Professionally Managed Verification Experience
Instead of navigating the verification process alone, our compliance specialists manage each stage of your application—from document review through to submission using the appropriate Companies House verification channel.

IdentityGuard Pro™ includes:

• Priority handling of your identity verification application.
• Dedicated support from experienced compliance professionals.
• Secure digital document submission.
• Professional review of your identity evidence before submission.
• Assistance for both UK residents and eligible overseas applicants.
• Verification through Coddan CPM's regulated ACSP service.
• Guidance on the next steps following successful identity verification.

Receive Your Companies House Personal Code
Once your identity has been successfully verified and the verification has been accepted by Companies House, you will receive your unique 11-character Companies House Personal Code.

Your Personal Code is unique to you as an individual and is used to connect your verified identity with your Companies House records. Depending on your circumstances, it may be required when you are appointed as a company director, recorded as a Person with Significant Control (PSC), or carrying out other activities under the Companies House identity verification framework.

Who Is IdentityGuard Pro™ Designed For?

IdentityGuard Pro™ is ideal for individuals who:

• Need to complete Companies House identity verification promptly.
• Are forming a new UK company.
• Are being appointed as a company director or PSC.
• Prefer a professionally managed service rather than completing the process independently.
• Want experienced compliance support throughout the verification journey.
• Require assistance with UK or eligible international identity documentation.

Move Forward with Confidence
Identity verification has become an important part of UK company compliance. IdentityGuard Pro™ helps you complete that requirement through a regulated, professionally managed service, allowing you to move forward with your Companies House obligations with the support of experienced compliance specialists.

Start your IdentityGuard Pro™ application today and obtain your Companies House Personal Code through Coddan CPM's regulated ACSP verification service.

Bypassing the GOV.UK App Bottleneck: Why Directors Choose Professional ACSP Identity Verification

If you are a UK company director, a Person with Significant Control (PSC), or an overseas founder required to complete identity verification under the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act (ECCTA), you may already have experienced the limitations of automated verification systems.

Many individuals attempting to verify their identity through the standard GOV.UK route encounter technical issues, unsuccessful verification attempts or situations where their circumstances cannot be readily processed through an automated workflow. When identity verification cannot be completed as expected, statutory obligations continue to apply, potentially affecting future Companies House transactions and creating unnecessary administrative delays.

Coddan's Companies House Identity Verification Service has been developed to provide an alternative verification route. As an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP), we deliver a professionally managed identity verification service that combines regulated compliance procedures with expert human oversight. Rather than relying solely on automated decision-making, our experienced compliance team reviews each application individually to help eligible individuals complete the Companies House identity verification process efficiently and obtain their unique 11-character Companies House Personal Code.

Why Automated Identity Verification May Not Be Suitable for Every Applicant

The standard government verification process is designed to support a wide range of applicants through automated identity checks and biometric verification. While this approach works well for many individuals, some applications require additional assessment due to the nature of the documents provided or the individual's circumstances.

Examples include:

International Identity Documents
Some overseas applicants use passports or national identity documents that differ from those most commonly encountered by automated verification systems. Depending on the document type and verification method, additional review may be appropriate.

Overseas Directors and International Founders
Directors and PSCs living outside the United Kingdom may have overseas residential addresses, international identification documents or personal information that requires additional verification before identity can be confirmed.

Complex Corporate Appointments

Individuals holding appointments across multiple companies, acting in different statutory capacities or serving international corporate groups may benefit from a professionally managed verification process that considers their specific circumstances rather than relying exclusively on automated workflows.

Technical Verification Difficulties
Poor image quality, lighting conditions, document readability or biometric capture issues can interrupt automated verification attempts and may require the applicant to repeat parts of the process.

The Coddan Difference: Regulated ACSP Verification with Professional Human Review

When you choose Coddan, your identity verification is completed through a regulated Authorised Corporate Service Provider using a structured verification process supported by experienced compliance professionals.

Where appropriate, we use Identity Document Validation Technology (IDVT) alongside manual verification procedures to ensure that each application receives appropriate professional assessment.

Our service has been designed to support straightforward applications as well as more complex verification requirements.

Professional Review of Every Application
Every verification request is reviewed by experienced compliance specialists who assess identity documentation and supporting information in accordance with applicable Companies House requirements and regulatory obligations.

Specialist Support for Overseas Applicants
We regularly assist overseas directors, international entrepreneurs, Persons with Significant Control and multinational corporate groups requiring Companies House identity verification through an approved ACSP verification route.

Regulated Companies House Submission
As an Authorised Corporate Service Provider, we complete identity verification through our regulated verification process and submit the verification through the appropriate Companies House framework, enabling your verified identity to be associated with your Companies House Personal Code.

Guidance Throughout the Process
>Unlike fully automated verification systems, our team is available to answer questions, explain documentation requirements and assist where additional information is needed to progress your verification.

Complete Your Companies House Identity Verification with Confidence
Identity verification is now an important part of the Companies House compliance framework. Choosing a professionally managed ACSP verification service provides access to experienced guidance throughout the process while ensuring your application is handled in accordance with current regulatory requirements.

Whether you are forming a new company, joining the board of an existing business, acting as a Person with Significant Control or managing an overseas corporate structure, our compliance specialists can help you complete your Companies House identity verification through an approved Authorised Corporate Service Provider.

Fixed Fee: £40 per identity verification

Processing: Priority verification options available

Support: Guidance from experienced corporate compliance specialists throughout the verification process

Why Choose Coddan CPM? The ACSP Advantage

When it comes to Companies House identity verification, you have a choice. You can complete the process directly through the GOV.UK verification service or work with a regulated Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP) such as Coddan CPM.

For many applicants, the direct government route is a suitable option. However, others prefer the reassurance of a professionally managed verification service—particularly if they are overseas, have non-standard identity documents, hold multiple company roles, or simply want experienced guidance throughout the process.

A Regulated Provider You Can Trust
Coddan CPM is an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP), authorised to carry out identity verification in accordance with the Companies House framework.

Our regulated status means we can provide a managed verification service that combines professional compliance expertise with secure identity verification procedures, helping individuals and businesses complete their obligations with confidence.

Professional Support Beyond a Self-Service Process

Identity verification is an important legal requirement, but every applicant's circumstances are different.

Our compliance specialists provide practical assistance throughout your verification journey by:

• Explaining the most appropriate verification pathway for your circumstances.
• Reviewing your identity documents before submission.
• Helping identify information that may need clarification.
• Supporting both UK and eligible overseas applicants.
• Managing the verification process through our regulated ACSP service.
• Keeping you informed throughout the application.

Helping You Navigate More Complex Situations

Some applications are straightforward, while others require additional attention because of international documentation, changes to personal information, multiple corporate appointments, or other individual circumstances.

Where additional support is appropriate, our experienced compliance team provides personalised guidance that a self-service process cannot offer. This helps applicants prepare their documentation carefully before submission and understand the next steps if further information is required.

More Than Identity Verification
Working with Coddan CPM means partnering with a company that specialises in UK corporate compliance—not just identity verification.

In addition to our regulated ACSP verification services, we provide company formation, company secretarial services, registered office facilities, director and PSC support, statutory filings, and ongoing Companies House compliance solutions. This allows clients to manage multiple corporate obligations through one experienced provider.

A Smarter Route to Companies House Compliance

Choosing Coddan CPM is not about avoiding the Companies House process—it is about completing that process with the support of experienced professionals who understand the wider compliance landscape.

Whether you are a first-time company director, an overseas entrepreneur, or an established business managing multiple appointments, our regulated ACSP services provide a secure, professionally managed pathway to meeting your Companies House identity verification requirements.

Who Needs to Complete Companies House Identity Verification?
The Companies House identity verification requirements introduced under the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act (ECCTA) apply to individuals who own, manage, or control UK registered entities. If you fall into one of the categories below, you may be required to verify your identity as part of your Companies House obligations.

Company Directors
All individuals appointed as company directors are required to complete identity verification in accordance with the Companies House implementation timetable. If you are already serving as a director, or you are appointed to a new company, you should ensure you understand when verification applies to your role.

Proposed Directors
If you are planning to incorporate a new UK company or are about to be appointed as a director of an existing company, identity verification forms part of the appointment process under the new Companies House framework. Completing verification at the appropriate stage helps ensure your appointment can proceed in accordance with the applicable requirements.

Persons with Significant Control (PSCs)
Individuals who qualify as a Person with Significant Control (PSC) are also within the scope of the identity verification regime. A PSC is generally someone who owns or controls a company through share ownership, voting rights, or other significant influence or control. Where identity verification applies, PSCs must comply with the relevant Companies House requirements.

LLP Members
Members of Limited Liability Partnerships (LLPs) are also being brought within the Companies House identity verification framework as the reforms are implemented. If you are joining or already belong to an LLP, you should confirm your verification obligations under the current Companies House guidance.

Not Sure Whether You Need to Verify?
If you are unsure whether the new identity verification requirements apply to your role, Coddan CPM can help you understand your obligations and recommend the most appropriate verification pathway.

Whether you are a director, proposed director, PSC, LLP member, UK resident, or overseas entrepreneur, our regulated Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP) services provide professional guidance to help you complete your Companies House identity verification with confidence.

Identity Verification Is Only Step One: Understanding the Two-Step Requirement

One of the most common misunderstandings about the new Companies House identity verification regime is that verifying your identity is not always the final step.

Many directors and business owners assume that once they have successfully completed identity verification, there is nothing more to do. In practice, identity verification and the use of your 11-character Companies House Personal Code are two separate actions, each serving a different purpose within the Companies House framework.

Step 1 – Verify Your Identity
The first step is to complete your identity verification through either:

• Companies House using the GOV.UK verification service; or
• A regulated Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP), such as Coddan CPM.

Once your identity has been successfully verified and processed by Companies House, you will be issued with your unique 11-character Companies House Personal Code.

This code belongs to you as an individual, not to a specific company.

Step 2 – Use Your Personal Code for Your Companies House Roles
Receiving your Personal Code does not automatically connect your verified identity to every company or position you hold.

Where Companies House requires it, you will need to provide your Personal Code when taking on or updating relevant corporate roles. Depending on your circumstances, this may include acting as:

• A company director.
• A Person with Significant Control (PSC).
• An LLP member.
• An individual associated with more than one UK company.

If you hold multiple appointments, your Personal Code may need to be used in connection with each relevant role in accordance with Companies House requirements.

Two Separate Actions—One Complete Compliance Process

Think of the process as two distinct stages:

Stage One: Verify your identity and receive your Personal Code.
Stage Two: Use that Personal Code whenever it is required to associate your verified identity with the appropriate Companies House role or filing.

Understanding this distinction helps reduce confusion and ensures that your verified identity can be correctly associated with your statutory appointments where required.

How Coddan CPM Can Help
As a regulated Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP), Coddan CPM supports clients through both stages of the process. We not only help you complete your identity verification but also explain how your Companies House Personal Code is used within the wider compliance framework, helping you understand the next steps for your directorships, PSC appointments, LLP memberships, and other applicable corporate roles.

Our goal is to help you complete the identity verification process correctly and understand how it fits into your ongoing Companies House compliance responsibilities.

Identity Verification Deadlines: Understand the Transition Period

Mandatory Companies House identity verification began on 18 November 2025, but this was not a single deadline for everyone. Instead, it marked the start of a 12-month transition period, allowing Companies House to introduce the new requirements in phases. For many existing directors and Persons with Significant Control (PSCs), the transition period runs until 17 November 2026, although your individual compliance date may be earlier depending on your circumstances.

New Appointments Cannot Wait
If you are incorporating a new company or becoming a new company director, identity verification is required before your appointment or incorporation can be completed through Companies House. This means verification is no longer something to deal with after your appointment—it forms part of the appointment process itself.

Existing Directors and PSCs Have a Transition Window
If you were already recorded as a director or PSC when mandatory verification began, Companies House is introducing the new requirements during a phased transition period rather than requiring everyone to verify on the same day.

For many companies, verification is linked to their next Companies House compliance activities during the transition period. Waiting until the final weeks before 17 November 2026 may leave less time to resolve any unexpected issues or obtain additional documentation if it is needed.

Verify Early to Avoid Last-Minute Pressure
Whether you verify directly through Companies House or through a regulated Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP), completing your identity verification early can help you avoid unnecessary pressure as your individual compliance date approaches.

By verifying in advance, you will have your 11-character Companies House Personal Code ready when it is required for your relevant company roles and future Companies House filings.

Need Help Meeting Your Deadline?

Coddan CPM's regulated ACSP verification services help directors, PSCs, LLP members, and overseas entrepreneurs complete their identity verification through a professionally managed process. If you are unsure when you need to verify or which verification pathway is most appropriate for your circumstances, our compliance specialists can help you understand the next steps and prepare for the Companies House requirements with confidence.

The DIY Route: Verifying Your Identity Directly with GOV.UK One Login
Companies House allows eligible individuals to verify their identity directly through the GOV.UK One Login service. For many applicants with compatible identity documents and access to the required technology, this can be a straightforward self-service option.

The process is designed for individuals who can successfully complete the necessary identity and security checks without professional assistance.

What You Will Typically Need
Depending on the verification method you choose, you may be asked to provide:

• A valid identity document, such as an eligible passport or other accepted photographic identification.
• A compatible smartphone to use the GOV.UK ID Check app, where applicable.
• A device capable of taking photographs and completing facial identity checks.
• Access to the internet and your GOV.UK One Login account.
• In some circumstances, you may be directed to complete identity verification in person at a participating Post Office if you cannot use the app or another online verification method.

The documents and verification options available depend on your individual circumstances and the verification route offered by GOV.UK.

The Self-Service Route Is Not Suitable for Everyone

Although many applicants complete verification successfully through GOV.UK One Login, some individuals may find that the self-service process is not the most appropriate option.

This may include people who:

• Live outside the United Kingdom.
• Hold identity documents that are not compatible with every digital verification method.
• Do not have access to a suitable smartphone or compatible device.
• Have experienced difficulties using the GOV.UK ID Check app.
• Prefer professional guidance throughout the verification process.
• Have more complex corporate circumstances, such as multiple company appointments or international documentation.

Experiencing difficulty with one verification method does not necessarily mean you cannot complete Companies House identity verification. It may simply mean that another recognised verification route is more appropriate for your circumstances.

An Alternative Through a Regulated ACSP

If the self-service route is unsuitable or you would prefer a professionally managed process, you can verify your identity through a regulated Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP) such as Coddan CPM.

Our compliance specialists help UK residents and eligible overseas applicants complete Companies House identity verification through a managed service, providing guidance on the most appropriate verification pathway, secure document handling, and support throughout the process.

Whether you choose the GOV.UK route or an ACSP, the objective is the same: successfully completing your Companies House identity verification and meeting your statutory obligations. Coddan's role is to provide expert assistance for individuals and businesses who value professional support or whose circumstances extend beyond a straightforward self-service application.

The ACSP Route: A Professionally Assisted Identity Verification Service

Companies House recognises two routes for completing identity verification: you can verify your identity directly through the GOV.UK service, or you can use a regulated Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP) such as Coddan CPM.

For many people, the GOV.UK self-service route works well. However, not every applicant has the same documents, technology, or circumstances. Where additional support is beneficial, an ACSP provides a professionally managed verification service with guidance throughout the process.

Why Choose an ACSP?
Working with a regulated ACSP means you have experienced compliance professionals helping you prepare and complete your identity verification rather than navigating the process entirely on your own.

Our specialists can:

• Explain the most appropriate verification pathway for your circumstances.
• Review your documentation before submission.
• Help identify information that may need clarification.
• Support you throughout the verification process.
• Manage your application through our regulated ACSP service.
• Keep you informed from submission through to completion.

An ACSP May Be the Right Choice If...

You Do Not Have the Documents Needed for Your Preferred Digital Route
Some applicants discover that the identity documents they hold are not compatible with every digital verification method available through the GOV.UK service. As a regulated ACSP, Coddan can assess your circumstances and advise on the most appropriate verification pathway using acceptable identity evidence under the applicable Companies House requirements.

You Hold Multiple Company Roles or Have More Complex Corporate Arrangements
If you are a director of several companies, act as both a director and a Person with Significant Control (PSC), belong to an LLP, or manage a more complex corporate structure, professional guidance can help you understand how identity verification fits within your wider Companies House compliance obligations.

You Live Outside the United Kingdom
Overseas directors, international entrepreneurs, and non-UK residents often prefer a managed verification service that can be completed remotely through a regulated ACSP. Coddan regularly assists eligible international applicants by providing clear guidance, secure document handling, and experienced compliance support throughout the verification process.

You Prefer Professional Assistance Rather Than a Self-Service Process
Some applicants simply want the reassurance of working with experienced compliance specialists. If questions arise during your application or additional information is required, having a dedicated team to guide you can make the process clearer and easier to manage.

Professional Guidance for More Complex Circumstances
Identity verification does not have to become a source of uncertainty. While every application is subject to the Companies House identity verification requirements and no provider can guarantee a successful outcome, working with a regulated ACSP can help you prepare your application carefully, understand what is required, and reduce the likelihood of avoidable delays caused by incomplete or inconsistent information.

Whether you are a first-time company director, an overseas founder, a PSC, or a business owner managing multiple appointments, Coddan CPM's regulated ACSP services provide a professionally managed route to meeting your Companies House identity verification obligations with confidence.

Identity Verification Rejected? Here's What You Need to Know

For many directors and business owners, the greatest concern is not completing identity verification—it is what happens if something goes wrong.

A failed verification attempt can create unnecessary delays, particularly if you are approaching a Companies House filing deadline or preparing to appoint a new director. The good news is that many verification problems can be resolved once the underlying issue has been identified.

Why Identity Verification Can Be Delayed or Rejected

Identity verification is designed to confirm that the information provided matches the identity of the individual applying. If there are inconsistencies, Companies House or the verification provider may require additional information before the process can be completed.

Common reasons why verification may not proceed as expected include:

• Differences between the name shown on your identity document and your Companies House records.
• Recently changed names that have not been reflected across all official documents.
• Expired or unacceptable identity documents.
• Poor-quality document images or incomplete submissions.
• Information that cannot be verified because additional evidence is required.
• Technical issues affecting digital identity checks.

In many cases, these issues do not mean that identity verification is impossible—they simply need to be identified and resolved before the application can continue.

The Cost of Leaving Verification Until the Last Minute
Identity verification is now part of the Companies House compliance framework. If you delay verification until it is urgently needed, you may have little time to resolve unexpected issues before an important filing or corporate transaction.

Depending on your circumstances and the stage of the Companies House implementation programme, failing to complete identity verification when required may result in:

• Delays in appointing new company directors.
• Difficulties completing certain Companies House filings where verified identity is required.
• Confirmation statements or other filings being rejected if statutory identity verification requirements have not been met.
• Public register information indicating that an individual has not yet completed the required verification where Companies House applies such annotations.
• Regulatory action where legal identity verification obligations are not complied with, which may include civil or criminal consequences in accordance with the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act and the Companies Act.

The exact consequences depend on the individual's role, the filing involved, and the applicable Companies House requirements at the time.

Professional Support When Verification Becomes More Complicated

If your verification has been unsuccessful, or you believe your circumstances may make the process more complex, professional guidance can help you identify the issue before making another attempt.

As a regulated Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP), Coddan CPM assists applicants by reviewing documentation, identifying inconsistencies, recommending the most appropriate verification pathway, and supporting both UK and eligible overseas applicants through a professionally managed process.

Rather than repeatedly attempting verification without understanding the underlying issue, our compliance specialists work with you to establish what additional information or clarification may be required, helping you move forward with greater confidence and reducing the risk of avoidable delays.

The Registry-Ready Advantage: More Than Identity Verification
Completing an identity check is only one part of meeting your Companies House obligations. At Coddan CPM, our objective is to help you prepare for the wider compliance journey by combining regulated identity verification with ongoing professional support.

As a regulated Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP), we do more than verify identity—we help ensure your verification is supported by appropriate documentation, a clear audit trail, and experienced compliance guidance throughout the process.

A Complete Compliance Audit Trail
Authorised Corporate Service Providers are required to maintain records of the identity verification checks they perform in accordance with applicable legal and anti-money laundering obligations.

When you verify your identity through Coddan CPM, your verification is supported by documented compliance procedures, secure record retention, and an audit trail that demonstrates the checks carried out during the verification process.

This structured approach promotes transparency, accountability, and good corporate governance while providing confidence that your verification has been completed through a regulated provider.

Your Compliance Concierge
Identity verification is often only the beginning of your Companies House responsibilities.

Our compliance specialists remain available to help you understand what happens next, including:

• Guidance on the use of your 11-character Companies House Personal Code.
• Assistance in understanding how your verified identity relates to your Companies House roles.
• Support with director appointments and corporate changes where appropriate.
• Reminders about important Companies House compliance milestones available through selected service packages.
• Access to company secretarial and filing support for businesses requiring ongoing compliance assistance.

Rather than leaving you to interpret changing compliance requirements on your own, we provide practical support that extends beyond the initial verification process.

Support When Circumstances Become More Complex
Not every identity verification follows a straightforward path.

If additional clarification is required, your documentation is more complex, or a digital verification method is unsuitable, our experienced compliance professionals assess your circumstances and guide you through the most appropriate verification pathway available under the Companies House framework.

Where manual assessment forms part of your selected service, our specialists work directly with you to review acceptable identity evidence and resolve issues that cannot always be addressed through a purely self-service process.

A Service Designed Around Long-Term Compliance
Choosing Coddan CPM means working with a regulated corporate compliance specialist rather than simply completing a single verification task.

Whether you are forming your first company, managing multiple directorships, acting as a Person with Significant Control (PSC), or operating an international business, our services are designed to help you maintain compliance beyond the initial identity verification requirement.

Our goal is simple: to provide a professionally managed identity verification service supported by experienced compliance professionals, secure record management, and ongoing guidance—helping you approach Companies House compliance with greater confidence today and in the future.