Company services
Identity verification for directors and PSCs
New rules under the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act mean the people behind UK companies must prove who they are. Here is what it means for your filings.
What identity verification is
Under the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023, directors and people with significant control (PSCs) must verify their identity with Companies House. Once verified, a person receives a personal code, which can be used to link them to their appointments and which Companies House may ask for when a filing is made.
Verification is free through GOV.UK or Companies House, and individuals do it themselves. We cannot verify your identity for you, because the check must be done with your own documents. Authorised corporate service providers can also verify people, which is a separate service.
Rules and dates are rolling out in stages, so check GOV.UK for the current position for your company.
How it affects your filings
- New directors may need to be verified before or when they are appointed
- Existing directors and PSCs are asked to verify according to Companies House timing
- A personal code may be asked for in appointment, PSC and confirmation statement filings
- Our forms tell you where a code is needed, so you are not caught out
How it works
How it works
- 01
Check you are affected
Directors and people with significant control need to verify. - 02
Verify with GOV.UK
Follow the identity verification steps on GOV.UK with your photo ID. - 03
Keep your personal code
Store the code safely. Do not share it beyond what a filing requires. - 04
Use it in your filing
Where our form asks for a personal code, enter it. It is encrypted and removed after the filing is done.
What you need
- A valid passport, UK photocard driving licence or other accepted photo ID
- A smartphone or other way of checking your ID, depending on the route you choose
- Your name and date of birth exactly as they appear on your ID
- A few minutes, then keep your personal code safe
Is identity verification free?
Yes. Verifying with GOV.UK or Companies House is free.
Can you verify me?
No. Individuals verify with GOV.UK or Companies House. We can tell you where a personal code is needed in a filing.
Who has to verify?
Directors and people with significant control, plus people who file on behalf of companies. Check GOV.UK for how it applies to you.
Ready when you are
Ready to file?
Once you have your personal code, start the filing you need.