Practical Steps to Resolve Verification Issues. Review Your Information Carefully

Check that your identity documents match your Companies House records before beginning verification.

1. Prepare Supporting Documents
   Where changes have occurred, retain appropriate supporting evidence.
2. Verify Early
   Avoid waiting until statutory filing deadlines approach.
3. Seek Professional Advice
   Complex situations are often resolved more quickly with assistance from an experienced ACSP.
4. Respond Promptly
   If additional information is requested, providing it promptly helps minimise delays.
5. Directors and PSCs Share Similar Responsibilities
   Although directors and Persons with Significant Control perform different legal functions, both play important roles in maintaining accurate company records.

Both should ensure that:

• personal information remains current
• Companies House records are accurate
• identity verification is completed promptly
• statutory obligations continue to be met

Maintaining accurate information supports both corporate governance and regulatory compliance.

Why Human Support Makes a Difference
Automated verification technology is highly effective in standard situations, but exceptional cases frequently require professional judgement.

Human expertise becomes particularly valuable where:

• overseas documentation requires interpretation
• verification systems reject otherwise valid documents
• historical records create inconsistencies
• unusual ownership structures require additional review

Working with an Authorised Corporate Service Provider combines secure digital verification with practical compliance expertise, significantly improving the likelihood of successful verification.

Identity Verification as Part of Multi-Tier Compliance
Resolving identity verification issues should be viewed as one element of a broader compliance strategy.

A comprehensive compliance framework also includes:

• director appointments
• PSC management
• statutory register maintenance
• Companies House filings
• governance reviews
• ongoing regulatory monitoring

Businesses adopting this broader approach are better positioned to meet evolving Companies House requirements while reducing future compliance risks.

For a complete overview of this framework, visit our main guide:

Identity Verification & Multi-Tier Compliance. Why Choose Coddan?

As an experienced UK Authorised Corporate Service Provider, Coddan assists businesses with:

• Companies House identity verification
• director verification
• PSC verification
• overseas documentation
• compliance advice
• corporate governance
• company secretarial services
• ongoing compliance management

Our specialists understand the practical issues that businesses encounter and provide tailored support designed to minimise delays and improve verification outcomes.

Continue Learning About Identity Verification
Identity verification affects many aspects of company management. Explore our related guidance to better understand each stage of the compliance journey.

If you are looking for a professionally managed verification service, read:

Use Trusted Identity Verification for Companies House by ACSP Provider

To understand how identity verification strengthens wider corporate governance, read:

Strengthening Corporate Compliance: The Essential Role of Identity Verification for Companies House

To discover how expert guidance complements modern verification technology, read:

Navigating Companies House ID Check: How Our Human-Centric Approach Simplifies Identity Verification

If you are preparing for a director appointment or reviewing director obligations, read:

Building a Transparent Business: Key Considerations for Identity Verification of Company Directors

Resolve Your Companies House Verification Issues with Confidence
Identity verification does not have to become a barrier to running your business.

With the support of an experienced ACSP, directors, PSCs, and business owners can resolve verification challenges efficiently while ensuring full compliance with Companies House requirements.

Whether your issue involves overseas documentation, historical company records, or complex ownership structures, Coddan provides the expertise needed to help you move forward with confidence.

Companies House Personal Code: Common Verification Issues and How to Resolve Them

As Companies House introduces enhanced identity verification requirements, many directors, Persons with Significant Control (PSCs), LLP members, and business owners are becoming familiar with the concept of a Companies House personal code. This unique identifier helps link a verified individual to their Companies House records and plays an important role in the UK’s evolving corporate transparency framework.

While the verification process is designed to be straightforward, some individuals may experience delays or administrative issues when completing identity verification or accessing their Companies House credentials. Understanding the most common problems can help avoid unnecessary disruption and keep your company records up to date. Strengthen your corporate compliance by implementing effective identity verification strategies; learn how to safeguard your organization today.

Common Identity Verification Issues

Incorrect Personal Information
One of the most frequent causes of verification delays is inconsistent information. Differences between identity documents, company records, residential addresses, or personal details can result in additional checks being required. Ensure your company directors meet identity verification standards with our comprehensive guidance; protect your organisation from potential risks.

Document Quality Problems
Identity documents that are expired, unclear, cropped, or difficult to read may not satisfy verification requirements. High-quality copies of valid identification documents help reduce the likelihood of delays.

Verification Record Mismatches
In some cases, information submitted during identity verification may not match existing Companies House records. This can require further review before verification can be completed successfully.

International Documentation Challenges
Non-UK residents may encounter additional verification requirements depending on the type of identification provided and the jurisdiction involved. Preparing documentation correctly from the outset can help streamline the process.

Professional Support for Identity Verification

As an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP), Coddan CPM assists UK and international clients with identity verification, Companies House compliance requirements, director appointments, company formation, and ongoing corporate administration.

Our experienced compliance team helps identify potential issues before submission, reviews supporting documentation, and guides clients through the verification process to help minimise delays and administrative complications.

Whether you are forming a new company, accepting a director appointment, becoming a Person with Significant Control, or updating company records, professional identity verification support can help ensure your Companies House requirements are completed accurately, efficiently, and with confidence.

Companies House Personal Code Verification Errors (2026): Common Problems and How to Fix Them

As Companies House introduces mandatory identity verification requirements, thousands of directors and Persons with Significant Control (PSCs) are encountering verification problems for the first time.

Unlike traditional Companies House filing credentials, the new Personal Code system is linked directly to an individual's verified identity. If verification fails, directors may be unable to complete appointments, update company records, or participate fully in Companies House compliance processes.

This guide explains the most common Personal Code verification errors and how to resolve them.

What Is a Companies House Personal Code?
A Companies House Personal Code is a unique identifier associated with an individual’s verified identity record.

The code belongs to the individual rather than the company.

For example:

• A director of five companies generally uses one verified identity.
• A founder who is both a director and a PSC maintains one identity record.
• The same Personal Code may be linked across multiple corporate appointments.

The purpose of the system is to improve transparency and reduce identity fraud within the UK corporate register.

Most verification failures are caused by inconsistencies between the information held by Companies House and the information contained in identity documents.

Error 1: Name Does Not Match Identity Documents
This is one of the most common causes of verification failure.

Example

Companies House record:
Jonathan Michael Smith
Passport:
Jon Smith
Or:
Companies House record:
Robert James Williams
Passport:
Bob Williams
Even small differences can trigger verification problems.

Solution
Review:

• Full legal name
• Middle names
• Date of birth
• Spelling
• Hyphenated surnames

Update company records where necessary before attempting verification again.

Error 2: Director Information Is Out of Date
Many companies were incorporated years ago.

Directors may have:

• Changed their name
• Updated personal details
• Corrected date-of-birth records
• Changed nationality

Outdated information can prevent successful verification.

Solution
Review existing Companies House records before beginning identity verification.

Error 3: Biometric Verification Failure
Many verification systems use facial recognition and biometric matching.

Problems may occur when:

• Images are blurry
• Lighting is poor
• Passport photos are outdated
• Camera quality is insufficient

Solution
Use:

• Good lighting
• High-resolution images
• Current identification documents
• Modern smartphones where possible

Error 4: International Director Verification Problems
Overseas directors sometimes encounter additional difficulties when using automated verification systems.

Common issues include:

• Foreign passports
• Limited UK digital history
• Non-UK residential addresses
• Language and document format differences

Solution
Where available, consider professional verification assistance through an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP).

Error 5: Incorrect PSC Information
Verification obligations apply to Persons with Significant Control, not simply shareholders.

Many founders misunderstand the distinction.

Common Mistake
A company records shareholders correctly but fails to identify PSCs accurately.

This creates inconsistencies between ownership records and control records.

Solution
Review:

• Share ownership
• Voting rights
• Director appointment rights
• Significant influence or control arrangements

Ensure PSC information is accurate before proceeding.

Error 6: Multiple Corporate Roles Cause Confusion
Many founders act as:

• Director
• Shareholder
• PSC

simultaneously.

These are separate legal roles with separate reporting obligations.

Solution
Confirm that each role has been correctly recorded within company records.

Error 7: Verification Delays Following Corporate Changes
Recent changes can create temporary mismatches.

Examples include:

• Director appointments
• Director resignations
• Share transfers
• PSC updates
• Company restructures

Solution
Allow sufficient time for Companies House records to reflect recent filings before beginning verification.

Can an ACSP Help Resolve Verification Problems?
Yes.

An Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP) can assist businesses with:

• Identity verification support
• Director appointments
• PSC compliance
• Company secretarial services
• Companies House filings
• Corporate record reviews

This can be particularly helpful for:

• International founders
• Overseas directors
• Multi-company groups
• Complex ownership structures

Before beginning identity verification:

• ✓ Check director information.
• ✓ Check PSC information.
• ✓ Ensure names match official identification documents.
• ✓ Review date-of-birth records.
• ✓ Confirm ownership structures.
• ✓ Verify recent Companies House filings have been processed.
• ✓ Consider professional support for complex structures.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does every shareholder need a Personal Code?
No.

Verification obligations generally relate to directors, PSCs, and other individuals required to verify their identity under Companies House rules.

Can one person use the same Personal Code for multiple companies?
Yes. The code is linked to the individual rather than a specific company.

Can overseas directors verify their identity?
Yes. Verification routes are available for international directors, although requirements may differ depending on the verification method used.

What happens if verification fails?
The individual may need to correct company records, update identity information, or repeat the verification process before proceeding.

Need Help With Companies House Identity Verification?
If your verification has failed, professional company secretarial support can help identify discrepancies, review corporate records, and assist with Companies House compliance requirements before filing deadlines become an issue.

Companies House Identity Verification: What Directors Need to Know

Identity verification is becoming a key component of the UK’s corporate transparency reforms. As Companies House implements new powers under the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act, directors, Persons with Significant Control (PSCs), LLP members, and certain other individuals may be required to verify their identity as part of their ongoing compliance obligations.

The purpose of identity verification is to improve the accuracy of information held on the Companies House register, strengthen trust in UK businesses, and help reduce fraud and misuse of corporate structures.

Identity verification requirements may apply to:

• Company directors
• Persons with Significant Control (PSCs)
• LLP members
• Certain individuals filing information with Companies House
• Individuals involved in the incorporation of new companies

The exact timing and application of these requirements depend on the implementation timetable established by Companies House and the relevant legislation.

Verification can generally be completed either directly through Companies House or through an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP). The process typically involves confirming an individual's identity using approved identification documents and verification procedures.

For international entrepreneurs and non-UK residents, additional documentation or verification checks may sometimes be required. Professional support can help ensure that identity records, supporting documents, and company information are prepared correctly before submission.

Failure to comply with applicable identity verification requirements could affect an individual’s ability to make certain filings, accept appointments, or carry out specific actions connected with a UK company. Maintaining accurate and verified company records helps support compliance, corporate transparency, and effective company administration.

As an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP), Coddan CPM assists directors, PSCs, LLP members, and business owners with identity verification, company formation, statutory filings, and ongoing compliance administration. Our experienced team helps UK and international clients navigate verification requirements efficiently while reducing the risk of delays and administrative issues.

Whether you are incorporating a new company, accepting a board appointment, or preparing for future Companies House requirements, professional identity verification support can help ensure your company remains compliant, credible, and ready for growth.

Director Identity Verification Deadlines (2026): What UK Company Directors Need to Know

The introduction of mandatory identity verification represents one of the biggest changes to UK company administration in decades.

As Companies House implements reforms under the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act (ECCTA), directors, Persons with Significant Control (PSCs), and company formation professionals must understand how identity verification affects company compliance.

For many businesses, identity verification is no longer simply an administrative exercise. It is becoming a fundamental requirement for maintaining an active and compliant UK company.

Why Director Identity Verification Matters
Historically, Companies House relied heavily on information submitted by companies and their advisers.

The new framework is designed to strengthen the reliability of the public register by ensuring that individuals connected to UK companies can be verified.

The objectives include:

• Reducing corporate fraud.
• Preventing the misuse of UK companies.
• Improving ownership transparency.
• Increasing confidence in the Companies House register.
• Strengthening anti-money laundering controls.

Who Must Verify Their Identity?
The verification requirements are primarily focused on individuals who hold significant corporate roles.

These may include:

Company Directors
Directors are responsible for managing company affairs and are central to the identity verification framework.

Persons with Significant Control (PSCs)
Verification obligations relate to PSC status rather than simple share ownership.

A PSC may qualify because they:

• Hold shares.
• Control voting rights.
• Can appoint or remove directors.
• Exercise significant influence or control.
• Control a trust or corporate structure.

Certain Filing Agents and Authorised Representatives
Additional verification requirements may apply to individuals acting within regulated filing frameworks.

What Is a Companies House Personal Code?
Following successful identity verification, an individual receives a unique Companies House identifier.

This identifier is commonly referred to as a Personal Code.

The code belongs to the individual, not the company.

For example:

• One director with five companies generally maintains one verified identity.
• One founder acting as both director and PSC uses the same verified identity record.
• Multiple company appointments can be linked to a single verified individual.

When Must Directors Verify?
Verification requirements vary depending on the individual’s role and circumstances.

New Directors
New appointments are increasingly linked to verification requirements as Companies House implements the new framework.

Companies should ensure that prospective directors understand verification obligations before appointment.

Existing Directors
Existing directors should review current Companies House guidance and ensure they complete any required verification within applicable implementation periods.

PSCs
Companies should also review PSC records carefully to ensure that individuals who meet PSC conditions are properly identified and comply with applicable verification requirements.

The Confirmation Statement Risk
One of the biggest compliance risks for companies is failing to prepare for verification requirements before filing deadlines.

Companies should review:

• Director records.
• PSC records.
• Ownership structures.
• Corporate appointments.
• Filing schedules.

Failure to maintain accurate information may create difficulties during future Companies House filings.

Name Mismatches

The most common issue occurs when company records do not match official identification documents.

Examples include:

• Jon vs Jonathan.
• Missing middle names.
• Hyphenated surnames.
• Spelling errors.

Many companies have not reviewed director information for years.

Changes to names or personal details can create verification difficulties.

Incorrect PSC Information
Businesses frequently misunderstand the difference between shareholders and PSCs. A shareholder is not automatically a PSC.

Likewise, a PSC may qualify through control rights rather than ownership alone.

International Director Issues
Foreign directors may encounter additional verification challenges depending on their documentation and verification route.

How Can Directors Verify Their Identity?

Verification routes may include:

GOV.UK Identity Verification
Suitable for many individuals who possess compatible identification documents and can complete the digital process directly.

Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP)
Many businesses choose to verify through an ACSP.

This option is particularly popular with:

• International founders.
• Overseas directors.
• Foreign investors.
• Corporate groups.
• Businesses using professional company secretarial services.

Consequences of Non-Compliance
The Companies House reforms provide stronger enforcement powers than previous frameworks.

Potential consequences may include:

• Filing difficulties.
• Delayed corporate transactions.
• Regulatory intervention.
• Financial penalties.
• Restrictions on corporate activities.
• Criminal sanctions in serious cases.

Because implementation continues to evolve, companies should monitor current Companies House guidance carefully.

Director Verification Compliance Checklist
Before filing your next Confirmation Statement:

• ✓ Review all director records.
• ✓ Review PSC information.
• ✓ Confirm names match official identification documents.
• ✓ Check ownership and voting structures.
• ✓ Identify any unverified directors.
• ✓ Review recent corporate changes.
• ✓ Consider professional assistance for complex ownership structures.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do all shareholders need to verify?
No. Verification requirements generally relate to directors, PSCs, and other individuals required to verify their identity under the Companies House framework.

Is a PSC the same as a shareholder?
No. PSC status is determined by control conditions, not simply by owning shares.

Can overseas directors verify their identity?
Yes. Verification routes are available for international directors, although the process may differ depending on the chosen verification method.

Can one Personal Code be used for multiple companies?
Yes. The code is linked to the individual rather than a specific company.

Should I use an ACSP?
Many businesses use an ACSP for professional assistance with identity verification, Companies House filings, company secretarial services, and ongoing compliance.

Need Help With Director Identity Verification?
Professional company secretarial and compliance services can help review director records, identify PSC issues, support identity verification, and ensure your company remains compliant with evolving Companies House requirements.

How ACSP Identity Verification for Companies House Works
As Companies House introduces enhanced identity verification requirements, many directors, Persons with Significant Control (PSCs), LLP members, and business owners are choosing to verify their identity through an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP). This route provides professional support throughout the verification process and can be particularly valuable for international entrepreneurs, complex ownership structures, and first-time company founders.

What Is an ACSP?
An Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP) is a business authorised by Companies House to carry out identity verification services and submit information on behalf of clients. ACSPs are typically regulated professionals, including company formation agents, accountants, solicitors, and corporate service providers subject to anti-money laundering supervision.

How the ACSP Verification Process Works

1. Identity Document Review
The process begins with the collection and review of identity documents. Depending on individual circumstances, this may include a passport, driving licence, national identity card, proof of address, or other supporting documentation.

2. Identity Verification Checks
The ACSP conducts identity verification checks using approved procedures and technologies. These checks help confirm that the individual is who they claim to be and that the information submitted is accurate and complete.

3. Compliance Assessment
As part of their regulatory obligations, ACSPs may perform additional due diligence and compliance checks to satisfy anti-money laundering and customer verification requirements.

4. Verification Confirmation
Once the verification process has been completed successfully, the individual’s verified status can be linked to their Companies House record in accordance with the applicable Companies House procedures.

Many business owners choose an ACSP because professional support can reduce administrative delays, minimise documentation errors, and provide guidance where identity verification requirements are more complex. This is particularly useful for overseas directors, non-UK residents, Persons with Significant Control, and companies with international ownership structures.

As an Authorised Corporate Service Provider, Coddan CPM assists clients with identity verification, company formation, director appointments, statutory filings, and ongoing compliance support. Our experienced team helps UK and international entrepreneurs navigate Companies House requirements efficiently, allowing businesses to focus on growth while maintaining compliance with evolving corporate regulations.

Whether you are forming a new company or managing an existing one, professional ACSP verification support can help ensure a smoother, faster, and more reliable compliance experience.

How ACSP Verification Works for Companies House (2026 Guide)

As Companies House implements identity verification reforms under the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act (ECCTA), many directors, shareholders, Persons with Significant Control (PSCs), and overseas founders are asking the same question:

What is an ACSP, and how does ACSP verification actually work?
An Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP) is now one of the most important participants in the UK company formation and compliance ecosystem. For many businesses, an ACSP provides the simplest route to identity verification, director appointments, PSC compliance, and Companies House filings.

This guide explains how ACSP verification works, who needs it, and why it has become such a critical part of modern UK company administration.

What Is an ACSP?
An Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP) is a business that has been authorised to provide certain Companies House-related services while operating within anti-money laundering (AML) supervision requirements.

Examples include:

• Company formation agents
• Chartered accountants
• Solicitors
• Corporate service providers
• Company secretarial firms

ACSPs increasingly play a central role in helping businesses satisfy identity verification and compliance requirements.

The purpose of the Companies House reforms is to improve:

• Corporate transparency
• Identity verification
• Register accuracy
• Fraud prevention
• Economic crime controls

Historically, Companies House accepted information largely at face value.

The modern framework introduces greater scrutiny over:

• Directors
• PSCs
• Corporate filings
• Ownership structures
• Company appointments

ACSPs help bridge the gap between businesses and the Companies House verification framework.

Who May Need ACSP Verification?
ACSP verification is particularly useful for:

New Company Directors
Individuals being appointed to UK companies may require identity verification before participating in certain corporate processes.

Persons With Significant Control (PSCs)
PSC information forms a key part of the UK’s corporate transparency regime.

Overseas Founders
International entrepreneurs frequently use ACSPs because they may not have a UK address history or may require additional compliance support.

Corporate Groups
Businesses operating multiple companies often use a single ACSP to coordinate verification and filings across the group.

How the ACSP Verification Process Works

Step 1 – Identity Review
The ACSP begins by reviewing the individual’s identity documentation.

Depending on the circumstances, this may involve:

• Passports
• Driving licences
• National identity cards
• Proof of address documentation
• Electronic verification checks

The exact requirements vary depending on the verification route used.

Step 2 – Identity Verification Checks
The ACSP conducts verification procedures in accordance with its regulatory obligations.

These checks may include:

• Document validation
• Biometric verification
• Liveness testing
• Electronic identity matching
• Database verification
• Risk assessment procedures

The purpose is to establish confidence that the individual is genuinely who they claim to be.

Step 3 – Compliance Assessment
The provider may also conduct broader compliance reviews, including:

• Anti-money laundering checks
• Sanctions screening
• Beneficial ownership analysis
• Corporate structure reviews

This helps identify inconsistencies before company filings are submitted.

Step 4 – Verification Confirmation
Once verification has been completed successfully, the verified identity can be linked to the individual's Companies House record.

This enables the individual to participate in relevant Companies House processes as required under the evolving framework.

Step 5 – Ongoing Record Maintenance
Verification is not simply a one-time administrative exercise.

Companies should ensure that:

• Director records remain accurate.
• PSC information remains current.
• Corporate changes are reported correctly.
• Compliance obligations are monitored continuously.

Most individuals will verify their identity using one of two routes.

Direct GOV.UK Route
Suitable for many individuals who:

• Have compatible identification documents.
• Prefer self-service verification.
• Wish to complete the process independently.

Advantages

• Direct process.
• No third-party fees.
• Convenient for straightforward cases.

ACSP Route
Suitable for:

• Overseas directors.
• International shareholders.
• Foreign founders.
• Complex ownership structures.
• Businesses requiring professional support.

Advantages

• Professional assistance.
• Compliance review support.
• Help with corporate structures.
• Integration with formation and secretarial services.

Common ACSP Verification Problems

Name Mismatches
Differences between company records and identity documents frequently cause delays.

Examples include:

• Jon vs Jonathan
• Missing middle names
• Hyphenated surnames

Incorrect PSC Records
Many companies confuse shareholders with PSCs.

Verification issues often arise where control records do not accurately reflect ownership structures.

Outdated Director Information
Changes to personal details may need to be updated before verification can proceed smoothly.

International Documentation Issues
Foreign documents occasionally require additional review or validation depending on the jurisdiction involved.

Why Businesses Use ACSPs
Many companies choose an ACSP because it provides a central compliance solution.

An ACSP may assist with:

• Company formation
• Identity verification
• Director appointments
• PSC compliance
• Registered office services
• Company secretarial services
• Confirmation Statements
• Ongoing Companies House filings

This creates a single compliance framework rather than managing multiple providers.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does ACSP stand for?
Authorised Corporate Service Provider.

Is ACSP verification mandatory?
Certain identity verification requirements may be completed through either a direct Companies House route or an authorised provider, depending on the circumstances.

Can overseas directors use an ACSP?
Yes. Many international founders use ACSPs to assist with identity verification and UK compliance requirements.

Can an ACSP help with PSC compliance?
Yes. Many ACSPs provide support with PSC identification, reporting obligations, and ongoing register maintenance.

Can an ACSP form my company?
Many ACSPs offer company formation services alongside identity verification and company secretarial support.

Need Help With ACSP Verification?
Whether you are forming a new company, appointing a director, updating PSC records, or navigating Companies House identity verification requirements, professional ACSP support can help ensure that your company remains compliant while reducing administrative complexity.

Verify Your Identity Before Becoming a Company Director

Identity verification is becoming an essential part of company administration in the UK. Under the Companies House reforms introduced through the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act, directors, Persons with Significant Control (PSCs), LLP members, and certain other individuals may be required to verify their identity before carrying out specific company-related activities.

For entrepreneurs, business owners, and overseas founders, completing identity verification early can help avoid delays, support regulatory compliance, and ensure smoother interaction with Companies House.

Strengthening Corporate Transparency
Identity verification helps improve the accuracy and reliability of information held on the Companies House register, supporting greater trust in UK businesses and corporate records.

Protecting Against Fraud
By confirming the identity of individuals involved in managing and controlling companies, the verification process helps reduce the risk of fraudulent appointments, false filings, and misuse of corporate entities.

Supporting Compliance
Verified identities are becoming an increasingly important part of the UK corporate compliance framework. Ensuring your identity is verified can help you meet Companies House requirements and maintain accurate company records.

How the Verification Process Works
Identity verification can generally be completed either directly through Companies House or through an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP). Depending on your circumstances, you may be asked to provide approved identity documents and supporting information to confirm your identity.

For non-UK residents and international entrepreneurs, additional verification checks or documentation requirements may apply.

Professional Verification Support
As an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP), Coddan CPM assists directors, PSCs, company founders, and international business owners with identity verification, company formation, statutory filings, and ongoing compliance support.

Whether you are incorporating a new company, accepting a director appointment, or preparing for future Companies House requirements, verifying your identity early can help keep your business compliant, credible, and ready for growth.

Complete your identity verification with confidence and ensure your company starts on a secure and compliant foundation.

Verify Your Identity Before Becoming a Company Director (2026 Guide)

If you plan to become a director of a UK limited company, identity verification is becoming an increasingly important part of the company appointment process.

The UK corporate compliance framework is undergoing significant reform under the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act (ECCTA), with Companies House introducing new identity verification requirements designed to improve transparency, reduce fraud, and strengthen trust in the UK business register.

For new directors, understanding identity verification before appointment can help avoid delays, rejected filings, and future compliance issues.

Why Identity Verification Matters
A company director occupies one of the most important positions within a UK company.

Directors are responsible for:

• Managing company affairs.
• Complying with Companies Act obligations.
• Maintaining accurate company records.
• Protecting the interests of the company.
• Ensuring statutory filings are completed correctly.

Because directors hold significant legal responsibilities, Companies House is introducing measures to verify that individuals appointed to these positions are genuine and properly identified.

What Is Director Identity Verification?

Director identity verification is a process that confirms that an individual appointed to a UK company is who they claim to be.

The objective is to:

• Reduce corporate fraud.
• Prevent false appointments.
• Improve register accuracy.
• Strengthen corporate transparency.
• Support anti-money laundering controls.

Identity verification forms part of the wider Companies House modernisation programme.

Who Must Verify Their Identity?
Identity verification requirements primarily affect individuals holding key positions within UK companies.

These may include:

Company Directors
Anyone appointed as a director should ensure they understand applicable verification requirements.

Persons with Significant Control (PSCs)
A PSC is not simply a shareholder.

PSC status may arise through:

• Share ownership.
• Voting rights.
• Director appointment rights.
• Significant influence or control.
• Trust or corporate ownership structures.

Certain Filing Representatives
Additional verification obligations may apply within regulated filing frameworks.

What Is a Companies House Personal Code?
Following successful identity verification, an individual receives a unique identifier linked to their verified identity record.

This identifier is commonly referred to as a Companies House Personal Code.

The code belongs to the individual rather than the company.

For example:

• One director with multiple companies generally maintains one verified identity.
• One founder acting as both a director and a PSC typically uses a single verified identity record.

The code helps connect an individual’s verified identity with their Companies House roles.

How to Verify Your Identity
There are generally two verification routes available.

Direct Verification
Many individuals can complete identity verification directly through the official Companies House verification pathway using compatible identification documents.

Verification Through an ACSP
An Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP) can assist with identity verification and compliance support.

This route is particularly popular with:

• Overseas founders.
• International directors.
• Foreign investors.
• Corporate groups.
• Businesses using company secretarial services.

Documents Commonly Used for Verification
Depending on the verification route used, individuals may be asked to provide:

• Passport
• Driving licence
• National identity card
• Residential address information
• Additional supporting documentation where required

Requirements may vary according to the verification method selected.

Name Mismatches
One of the most common issues occurs when Companies House records do not match official identification documents.

Examples include:

• Jon vs Jonathan
• Missing middle names
• Hyphenated surnames
• Spelling inconsistencies

Outdated Director Information
Changes to personal details may create difficulties during verification.

Incorrect PSC Records
Companies frequently confuse shareholders with PSCs.

This can lead to inconsistencies between ownership records and control records.

International Documentation Issues
Overseas directors may require additional verification support depending on their circumstances.

What Happens If You Do Not Verify?
As the Companies House reforms continue to be implemented, verification is becoming an increasingly important compliance requirement.

Potential consequences of non-compliance may include:

• Delayed appointments
• Filing difficulties
• Regulatory intervention
• Financial penalties
• Restrictions on certain corporate actions

Businesses should monitor current Companies House guidance and ensure directors understand their obligations.

Verification Checklist for New Directors
Before accepting a director appointment:

• ✓ Review your personal details.
• ✓ Ensure your name matches your identification documents.
• ✓ Check your date of birth information.
• ✓ Review any existing Companies House records.
• ✓ Confirm PSC information is accurate.
• ✓ Prepare required identification documents.
• ✓ Consider professional assistance if your company has an international or complex ownership structure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do all shareholders need to verify their identity?
No. Verification obligations are generally linked to specific corporate roles such as directors and PSCs rather than simple share ownership.

Can overseas directors verify their identity?
Yes. Verification routes are available for international directors.

Is a PSC the same as a shareholder?
No. PSC status is based on control conditions rather than share ownership alone.

Can I become a director before verification?
Requirements continue to evolve as Companies House implements the new framework. Directors should ensure they understand current verification obligations before appointment.

Can an ACSP help with verification?
Yes. Many Authorised Corporate Service Providers assist with identity verification, company formation, PSC compliance, company secretarial services, and Companies House filings.

Need Help Verifying Your Identity?
Whether you are forming a new company, appointing a director, updating PSC records, or preparing for Companies House compliance requirements, professional company secretarial and ACSP services can help ensure the process is completed accurately and efficiently.