Companies House ID verification can be completed online, at the post office,or through an Authorized Company Service Provider (ACSP). Understanding the importance of identity verification is crucial.

Identity verification has become a mandatory legal requirement aimed at preventing individuals from exploiting companies for illicit activities. This process is essential to establish that you are indeed who you claim to be. The benefits of verifying your identity include:

Reduction of Fraud Risk:

By confirming your identity, we can significantly decrease opportunities for fraudulent activities that may harm both individuals and businesses.

Enhanced Transparency and Trust:

Proper verification fosters a culture of accountability and trust within the business community, ensuring that all information recorded on the Companies House register is accurate and reliable.

Who Is Required to Verify Their Identity?

Identity verification is required for specific individuals involved in corporate governance and operations. You must complete this process if you are:

1. A Director:
   Individuals appointed to oversee the management of a company.
2. An Equivalent to a Director:
   This category includes members, general partners, and managing officers who play a critical role in directing and managing the company’s activities.
3. A Person with Significant Control (PSC):
   This refers to individuals or entities that hold significant influence over the company, typically through ownership or voting rights.
4. Someone Who Files for a Company:
   This includes roles such as company secretaries who are responsible for submitting official documents to the relevant authorities.

Typically, you will need to verify your identity only once. If further verification is necessary, you will receive direct instructions regarding the process. This streamlined approach ensures that businesses can operate efficiently while maintaining compliance with legal standards.

Directors (or Equivalent).

As a director, it is essential for you to include your unique Companies House personal code in your company’s next confirmation statement, which will be due starting from November 18, 2025. This personal code serves as a verification mechanism to authenticate your identity as a director.

If you hold directorships in multiple companies, please be aware that you must provide your personal code for each company individually. This ensures compliance with Companies House regulations across all your directorships.

Furthermore, when registering a new company, you will be prompted to furnish the Companies House personal code for each director involved in the registration process. This step is vital for maintaining accurate records and ensuring that all directors are properly identified and recognized by Companies House.

People with Significant Control (PSCs).

Individuals designated as People with Significant Control (PSCs) are required to verify their identity and submit their unique personal code issued by Companies House. The time allowed for completing this verification depends on your specific circumstances and role within the company.

If you are both a Director and a PSC of the same company:
You will need to provide your personal code separately for each position. As a Director, it is mandatory to include your personal code in the company’s confirmation statement, which serves as an official record of key company information. As a PSC, you must utilize a different designated service to submit your personal code within 14 days from the date of your company’s confirmation statement. Note that this requirement will become effective starting from 18 November 2025.

If you are a PSC but not a Director of the same company:
In this case, you are required to submit your personal code within the first 14 days of the month that corresponds to your date of birth. For instance, if your birthdate is 22 January, the 14-day submission window will begin on 1 January and conclude on 14 January. It is crucial to ensure this submission is timely to comply with regulatory requirements.

If you become a PSC after 18 November 2025:
In situations where you are designated as a PSC after the specified date, you have the option to provide your personal code either at the time you are first entered into the Companies House register or within 14 days of your addition to the register. This allows for a streamlined process for new PSCs ensuring that they can meet obligations promptly.

Fulfilling these requirements is essential in maintaining transparency and compliance within corporate governance. Failure to do so can result in penalties or other repercussions, underscoring the importance of adhering to the timelines specified.

Using the Verify Your Identity for Companies House Service.
The Verify Your Identity for Companies House service is designed to facilitate the process of identity verification through the use of GOV.UK One Login. This service is completely free of charge, ensuring accessibility for all users.

When you access GOV.UK One Login, you will encounter a series of straightforward questions tailored to gather information pertinent to your personal identity rather than your company’s details. This helps in determining the most effective method for verification.

Depending on your responses to the initial questions, you will be guided through one of the following identification methods:

1. Mobile App Verification:
   You may have the option to verify your identity using a secure mobile application that offers a convenient interface for real-time verification.
2. Online Security Questions:
   Alternatively, you can verify your identity by answering a set of security questions online, which are designed to confirm your identity based on the information you provide.
3. Photo ID Submission:
   In some cases, you may be required to enter your details as they appear on an official photo ID through the GOV.UK One Login platform. Following this, you will need to visit a participating Post Office to finalize the verification process.

This structured approach aims to enhance security while making the identity verification process as smooth and efficient as possible.

Using an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP).
If you need assistance with verifying your identity, you can enlist the services of an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP), which may include professionals such as accountants or solicitors. These individuals are recognized as Companies House authorised agents and can facilitate the identity verification process on your behalf.

You have the flexibility to engage an ACSP from anywhere in the world. However, it is essential that the agent you choose has registered with Companies House to obtain the necessary authorisation. Furthermore, they must be affiliated with a UK Anti-Money Laundering (AML) supervisory body, ensuring compliance with relevant regulations aimed at preventing financial crimes.

When an agent has confirmed their willingness to assist you in verifying your identity, you will be required to provide them with specific documents that are listed as acceptable forms of identification. These documents may include, but are not limited to, government-issued photo identification, utility bills, or bank statements that verify your address.

Please keep in mind that ACSPs may charge a fee for their services, which can vary based on the complexity of your case and the level of service provided. It’s advisable to clarify any fees upfront to avoid unexpected costs.

Understanding the Verification Process.
When you successfully complete the verification process with Companies House, you will be issued a unique identifier known as a Companies House personal code. This code is specifically assigned to you and is distinct from any codes associated with your company or any other organization you may work for.

1. Effective Date:
   Beginning on 18 November 2025, this personal code will become essential for a variety of important activities, including but not limited to:
2. Filing Your Confirmation Statement:
   Your personal code will be required when you submit your confirmation statement, ensuring that the information you provide is linked to your verified identity.
3. Appointment as a Director:
   If you are appointed as a director of a company, you will need to input your personal code to establish your connection to the company’s records officially.
4. Becoming a Person with Significant Control (PSC):
   Should you take on the role of a person with significant control, your personal code will be necessary to confirm your identity within the legal framework governing corporate governance.

If you are currently serving as a director or as a PSC, it is imperative that you utilize your Companies House personal code to associate your verified identity with our official records. This requirement is not merely procedural; it is mandated by law to ensure that the correct individual is recognized in all official capacities related to your corporate roles. By using this code, you help maintain the integrity and accuracy of company information, protecting both your interests and those of the organization.

Only share your personal code with individuals you absolutely trust, as this code is a sensitive piece of information. You may need to provide it to trusted colleagues or representatives who are authorized to file documents on your behalf or manage specific affairs for your company.

It is crucial to keep this information secure, treating it with the same level of caution as other sensitive identifiers, such as your Unique Taxpayer Reference (UTR) issued by HMRC. This means avoiding sharing it via insecure channels, such as email or text, and ensuring that it’s only disclosed in secure environments.

Although identity verification processes can significantly reduce the risk of identity theft and make it much more challenging for criminals to impersonate someone, it is essential to understand that these measures are not infallible. Continuous vigilance is necessary to protect your personal and financial information.

To register a company in the UK, you now need to verify your identity with Companies House. This is part of new regulations aimed at enhancing transparency and combating fraudulent activities. The good news is that Coddan is an officially authorized Corporate Service Provider (ACSP), meaning we are approved to conduct the identity verification on your behalf as part of the company setup process with us.

What You Need to Do with Your Companies House Personal Code.
The actions you are required to take depend on your specific role within the company and the date you commenced that role.

If you are serving as a director or as a Person of Significant Control (PSC), it is essential to utilize your Companies House personal code to establish a connection between your verified identity and our official records for each position you hold. This process is a legal obligation aimed at ensuring the accuracy of identity verification for Companies House. By doing so, you help maintain transparency and compliance within the corporate governance framework.

Ensure that you have your personal code readily available when you initiate the identity verification process, and follow the instructions provided by Companies House to complete the necessary steps efficiently.

It is now a legal requirement for anyone who establishes, operates, owns, or controls a company in the UK to undergo an identity verification process. This is typically done by presenting an official form of identification, such as a passport or driver’s license, during a one-time verification check with Companies House.

This requirement stems from the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act, which aims to combat fraudulent activities and enhance the integrity of the public company register. By implementing these measures, the government intends to create a more transparent and trustworthy environment for businesses and stakeholders.

Once your identity has been successfully verified, you will receive a unique personal identification code. This code creates a secure link between you and your respective roles within the company as recorded in official documentation. It serves as evidence that you have completed the verification process and affirms your authenticity as a legitimate company officer or owner. This new measure not only helps protect businesses from potential fraud but also increases public confidence in the corporate entities operating within the UK.

Under the newly enacted Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023, Companies House has instituted a mandatory identity verification process. This requirement is designed to ensure strict compliance with the law and to mitigate the risk of fraudulent activities within the business registration system. It is a vital step for both individuals and entities looking to submit official documents or register their businesses with Companies House.

The identity verification process typically necessitates the submission of personal identification documents, which may include government-issued documents such as passports or driver’s licenses. Furthermore, applicants must provide proof of their residential address, which can be substantiated through utility bills, bank statements, or other official correspondence displaying the individual’s name and address.

To confirm the authenticity of these documents, individuals may utilize several options. Verification can be conducted directly through the secure Companies House online portal, ensuring a streamlined and efficient process. Alternatively, individuals may opt for certification services at their local Post Office, which can validate the identification documents. Another option is to engage the services of an Accredited Company Service Provider (ACSP), who can facilitate the verification process on behalf of the applicant.

Accuracy and currency of the submitted information are paramount; companies must diligently ensure that all details are correct and up-to-date to prevent any unnecessary delays or outright rejections in processing their applications. The identity verification process plays a crucial role in maintaining the integrity of the business registration system, ultimately safeguarding against identity theft and contributing to a more transparent economic environment.

Who is Required to Complete Identity Verification with Companies House?
Identity verification with Companies House is an essential requirement for certain individuals involved in the registration and management of companies and partnerships in the UK. The identity verification process is specifically necessary for:

1. Directors:
   These individuals are responsible for the strategic direction and management of the company.
2. Equivalent Roles to Directors:
   This includes members, general partners, and managing officers who play a crucial role in the governance of the business and carry similar responsibilities to those of a director.
3. Persons with Significant Control (PSC):
   These individuals have substantial influence or control over the company, typically defined as owning more than 25% of the shares or voting rights.
4. Document Filers or Submitters:
   This category includes anyone, such as a company secretary, who is responsible for filing documents or submitting information to Companies House on behalf of the company.

The identity verification process is critical for fostering transparency and accountability within the corporate sector. It ensures that all individuals in significant positions within a company are properly identified, reducing the risk of fraud and enhancing trust among stakeholders. Failure to complete the verification can lead to serious consequences, including penalties, restrictions on company operations, or delays in the registration process. Ultimately, identity verification serves as a fundamental measure to protect the interests of stakeholders, investors, and the public, ensuring that the corporate environment remains fair and secure.

To effectively combat fraud and improve the accuracy of information available to the public, Companies House has initiated a comprehensive identity verification process for directors of limited companies (LTDs), partnerships, and other corporate entities. This effort also extends to verifying the identities of individuals designated as persons with significant control (PSCs), who hold a substantial degree of influence over the company’s operations and decisions.

The identity verification measures are designed to ensure that the information submitted to the register is both reliable and transparent, thus enhancing public trust in company data. While there is currently no strict enforcement deadline for compliance with these requirements, it is anticipated that the implementation of these measures will become a legal obligation in the near future. Stakeholders should prepare for this transition as Companies House works towards creating a more secure and accountable business environment.

Online Verification Process.
You have the option to verify your identity online directly with Companies House if you possess the required identity documents or relevant information. This method utilizes the GOV.UK One Login system, ensuring a streamlined and cost-free verification process.

As part of the GOV.UK One Login procedure, you will be prompted to answer a series of straightforward questions aimed at ascertaining the most suitable method for you to verify your identity online. Based on your answers, you can choose to verify your identity using the GOV.UK mobile application or through your web browser, providing information that is uniquely known to you, such as personal identification numbers or previous addresses.

In-Person Verification at a Local Post Office.
If online verification is not a feasible option for you and you reside in the UK, you may have the opportunity to verify your identity in person at a designated Post Office. To determine your eligibility for this option, it is essential to first utilize the “Verify your identity for Companies House” service on the Companies House website. This service will guide you through the steps needed to initiate the in-person verification process, ensuring you understand what documents to bring.

Verification Through an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP).
Alternatively, you can engage an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP) to facilitate your identity verification on your behalf. An ACSP could be a professional from a regulated field, such as an accountant or solicitor, who is equipped to handle such requests. This is commonly referred to as employing a Companies House authorised agent, which is regulated under Anti-Money Laundering (AML) laws to ensure compliance and safeguard against fraudulent activities.

At Coddan CPM, we are dedicated to streamlining your company registration process. As an officially recognized Authorized Company Service Provider (ACSP), we have the authority to verify your identity on behalf of Companies House, ensuring compliance with their regulations. This service is particularly beneficial if you choose to register your company through us, as we can seamlessly conduct your identity verification concurrently with the registration process, allowing for a more efficient experience.

To initiate the verification, we will request a valid form of identification from an approved list, which may include options such as a passport, driver’s license, or other government-issued identification. Our experienced team will handle all the necessary checks and ensure that your information is securely processed. Once your identity has been successfully verified, Companies House will promptly send you a personal verification code via email, which is essential to finalize your registration.

It’s important to note that while some agents may charge additional fees for identity verification services, you can rest assured that this cost is included in our competitive package at Coddan CPM when you register your company with us. Our goal is to provide you with a hassle-free and transparent registration experience.

Transform Your Verification Process with Coddan:

1. Ease of Use:
   Our services enable you to complete your identity verification without unnecessary complications or delays.
2. Security:
   We implement rigorous identity checks to safeguard your business against potential threats and unauthorized access.
3. Trusted Service:
   Coddan, as your reliable ACSP, offers secure identity verification processes for a one-time fee of £40.00 + VAT.

Coddan is committed to providing comprehensive support with the Companies House ID verification process, ensuring a seamless and efficient experience for businesses. Our experts are adept at navigating the intricate requirements associated with identity verification mandated by Companies House, which is critical for maintaining compliance with legal regulations and protecting your business from fraud.

By relying on Coddan’s expertise, you can simplify the verification process, allowing you to concentrate on your core business operations while ensuring that all necessary documentation and identification standards are meticulously adhered to. This support not only enhances your operational efficiency but also fosters trust among stakeholders by demonstrating a steadfast commitment to regulatory compliance.

As an Authorised Corporate Business Service Provider (ACSP), Coddan is strategically positioned to assist with ID verification for Companies House. Please be aware that the identity verification process for Companies House is distinct from any Anti-Money Laundering (AML) compliance checks that may be required under current regulations for company registration purposes.

If you wish to engage our services to complete your identity verification for Companies House, it’s imperative that you thoroughly read and comprehend the outlined requirements below and ensure that you can submit the correct documents. If incorrect documents are provided, we will be unable to confirm to Companies House that we have successfully verified your identity according to their prescribed guidelines. In this circumstance, you will still incur the service charge, and we will need to conduct a new identity verification check.

Please note that a fee will be charged for each identity verification conducted for the individual being verified.

How is Identity Verification Conducted with Coddan?
Coddan conducts comprehensive Identity Verification using the advanced Credas software, designed to streamline the verification process for individuals. Upon initiating this check, you will receive a secure link from the Credas system containing step-by-step instructions for uploading your identification documents. This will include a government-issued ID document, a recent selfie, and, if applicable, additional supporting documents, such as proof of your current address.

To facilitate a seamless verification experience, it is important to gather and verify that you have the appropriate documents readily available before you begin the process.

Options for Completing ID Checks via Credas:
There are two main pathways for ID verification:

• Single ID Verification:
  You may use one primary form of identification — specifically, a biometric or machine-readable passport, which will be verified using embedded CHIP technology.
• Dual ID Verification:
  If you do not possess a biometric or machine-readable passport, or if CHIP verification is unsuccessful, you will need to provide a total of two documents from the specified groups below.

Document Requirements:
If relying on dual documents, you must supply either:

• Two documents from Group A, or
• One document from Group A and one document from Group B.

For individuals residing outside the UK, at least one of these documents must be government-issued. A valid passport is accepted as the primary form of ID.

Group A Documents. Group A includes primary identification forms that are acceptable for verification, such as:

• A valid passport or an Irish passport card (considered a primary ID document).
• An identity card that features biometric information issued by the EU, Norway, Iceland, or Liechtenstein.
• A UK biometric residence permit (BRP).
• An accredited PASS card from the UK.
• A UK or EU digital tachograph driving licence (either full or provisional).
• A current UK HM Forces ID Card.
• A UK HM Armed Forces Veteran Card.
• A firearms licence issued in the UK, Channel Islands, or Isle of Man.
• Other forms of photographic ID recognized by the PRADO system, including a Pakistani National Identity Card, a South African crew member certificate, or a US Permanent Resident Card.

Group B Documents. Group B encompasses additional forms of identification that can support your verification. For UK-based individuals:

• A birth or adoption certificate.
• A marriage or civil partnership certificate.
• A bank or building society statement that reflects your current address.
• A rental agreement from a UK local authority or social housing, confirming your current residence.
• A mortgage statement that indicates your current address.
• A UK council tax statement associated with your current address.
• A utility bill (gas, electricity, water, waste) that must also correspond to your current address. Please note that TV, Internet, or mobile phone bills are not permissible.

For overseas individuals:

• A recent bank statement.
• A utility bill (similar to the above) confirming your current address — again, only gas, electricity, water, and waste bills are accepted. If documents are not issued in English, a certified translation may be requested.

Verification Process:
As part of the Identity Verification process, you must provide a personal email address. This address will be used to submit the collected information to Companies House, leading to the verification of your identity. After submission, Companies House will issue a unique personal code. This code is essential for you to confirm that your identity has been successfully verified.

Fees:
Coddan charges a fee of £40.00 plus VAT (if applicable) for the Identity Verification service and the submission of information to Companies House. This fee covers our administrative costs and the software expenses incurred during the verification checks. By ensuring you have the correct documentation prepared and understanding the verification process clearly, you will enhance your chances of a smooth and efficient Identity Verification experience with Coddan.

Coddan is proud to offer comprehensive Identity Verification support to all clients, regardless of whether they established their company using our services. This initiative is designed to ensure that every business has access to vital verification processes, significantly enhancing security measures and compliance with regulatory standards.

Our Identity Verification support facilitates streamlined operations for companies by providing essential identity checks, which are critical for a wide range of business transactions, including banking, contracting, and meeting legal obligations. By making this service available to all clients, we underscore our commitment to creating a secure business environment and supporting the varied needs of entrepreneurs at different stages of their ventures.

Completing your identity verification with Coddan is a straightforward process. Simply fill out our user-friendly, one-step application form with your contact details. Following submission, our dedicated team will promptly get in touch to guide you through the verification process required for Companies House. This ensures that you can focus on growing your business while we handle the complexities of compliance and verification.

Once your information has been successfully verified, you will receive an email from Companies House. This email will contain an 11-character personal code that is crucial for all your future filings with Companies House. This code acts as your unique identifier and is essential for ensuring the accuracy and security of your submissions. You may share this code with trusted individuals or professionals you authorize to file documents on your behalf, ensuring a smooth filing process. Make sure to keep this code secure, as it is protective of your business information and filings.

Establishing a company in the UK is a swift, straightforward, and cost-effective process, contributing to the nation’s reputation as a premier destination for business ventures. In return for the protection of limited liability—which safeguards personal assets—companies consent to publicly disclose their details in the UK’s open corporate register.

This register serves as an invaluable repository of information, empowering businesses to make informed decisions, fostering transparency, and playing a pivotal role in the dynamic landscape of the UK economy. Companies House data is estimated to be worth an impressive £1 billion to £3 billion each year for its users, highlighting its significance.

As part of our commitment to transformation, we are excited to introduce identity verification measures that will bolster the reliability of the information contained in the register. This initiative is exceptionally promising for businesses, users of the register, and ongoing efforts to combat economic crime.

Our identity verification processes are designed with simplicity, security, and robustness in mind. We will verify identities using widely accepted forms of identification, such as passports and driving licenses. Importantly, our identity verification requirements will not create digital IDs for company directors or persons with significant control (PSCs); rather, they are intended solely to affirm that individuals are authentic and trustworthy.

Being featured on the Companies House register is much more than a mere legal formality; it is a powerful tool for businesses to establish credibility, secure contracts, and signal their commitment to professionalism.

Professionals, including journalists, trading standards officials, and law enforcement representatives, often encourage consumers to verify whether a trader is officially listed on Companies House. This identity verification will guarantee that such listings reflect authentic and reliable information, safeguarding the interests of all stakeholders.

A verified presence on the Companies House register not only demonstrates legitimacy and professionalism but can also unlock a myriad of new opportunities—from securing favorable supplier relationships to accessing varied financing options.

Furthermore, Companies House data plays an essential role in enabling businesses to:

• Conduct comprehensive due diligence on potential suppliers and customers.
• Access vital finance, including credit lines and grants.
• Enhance the value of their services and products, positioning themselves for growth.

These new measures will work in concert to enhance the accuracy and reliability of the register. Key components of these measures include:

• Identity verification to ensure accountability.
• The authority to query and reject inaccurate information.
• Enhanced financial reporting standards for clearer insights.

These improvements will facilitate better decision-making for all who rely on the wealth of information provided by Companies House. Identity verification stands as a significant leap forward in our mission to empower UK businesses, making Companies House data not only more robust and reliable but also highly valuable for nurturing a thriving business environment.

One of the most efficient ways to fulfill Companies House’s identity verification requirements is to allow Coddan CPM to facilitate the process for you. As an officially recognized Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP), we have the authority to conduct identity verifications on behalf of Companies House. This ensures that we adhere to all relevant legal standards, including stringent anti-money laundering (AML) regulations. Here’s an overview of how our process works:

Streamlined Company Registration Process:
When you choose to register a company through Coddan CPM, our comprehensive service includes identity verification as an integral part of the registration package. You won’t need to navigate a separate process on the GOV.UK website. Instead, we will handle the entire verification process for you. Our team will collect your identification documents, perform the necessary checks to validate your identity, and submit all required information directly to Companies House.

Once your identity has been verified, you will promptly receive your official Companies House personal code via email. Following this, we will initiate the company registration process. This streamlined approach ensures that by the time your business is operational, all your directors and Persons with Significant Control (PSCs) will already be verified and compliant with the regulations.

Reliable and Trustworthy Verification Services:
Coddan CPM is not only recognized as an ACSP but is also registered with Companies House and supervised by a reputable UK anti-money laundering (AML) regulatory body. Our credentials affirm our commitment to providing safe, reliable, and compliant verification services, instilling confidence that your identity and business registration processes are in expert hands.

Once your identity has been successfully verified—whether through an online process, in person at the Post Office, or via the app—you will receive a unique personal code from Companies House. This personal code consists of 11 alphanumeric characters, serving as a distinctive identifier that links you to any official roles you may hold within a UK company.

Importantly, this code is not specific to a single business; it is yours to keep for life, providing a lasting connection to your professional endeavors. You can think of it as an official stamp of approval from Companies House, demonstrating your verified status and authority in the realm of UK corporate governance. This code will streamline future interactions with Companies House and establish your credibility in the business community.