Why It’s No Longer Optional

Under the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023, Companies House now requires every:

  • Company director
  • Person with significant control (PSC)
  • Authorised agent or ACSP representative to verify their identity before they can act on behalf of a company.

This measure helps prevent fraud, money laundering, and misuse of the UK business register.

If You Don’t Verify, Access Will Be Blocked

Unverified individuals cannot:

  • Register a new company
  • File or update company information
  • Act as a director or PSC
  • Submit annual statements or accounts

Your company filings may be rejected until all relevant people are verified.

What You Risk by Not Verifying

  • Loss of authority
    You cannot act legally as a company officer or representative
  • Rejected filings
    Companies House will refuse submissions from unverified individuals
  • Company penalties
    Your company may receive warnings, fines, or be struck off
  • Reputational damage
    Non-compliance is visible on the public register and may impact business credibility

Legal Consequences of Non-Verification

Failing to verify your identity can be treated as non-compliance with UK corporate law.

In severe cases, it may result in:

  • Legal investigation
  • Temporary suspension of company activities
  • Permanent company dissolution

Reference:

Companies House operates under powers granted by the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023, enforcing mandatory identity checks.

You Can Still Verify and Restore Access

If your verification period has expired or your access was restricted, you can restore compliance by:

  1. Completing your identity verification online through Companies House.
  2. Submitting updated documentation or ID.
  3. Reconnecting your verified identity to your company profile.

Once completed, all previous restrictions are lifted automatically.

Start Verification Process

Stay Verified, Stay Active

Your verified status remains valid until your details change (e.g. name, ID, or nationality).

Keep your information updated to avoid suspension or verification resets.


Re-verification is only required if your personal circumstances change.

Can I still run my company if I haven’t verified yet?

No. You must complete verification before taking any official company action.

How long do I have to verify?

Companies House provides a specific deadline after your verification invitation — typically 14 to 28 days.

Can my company be fined?

Yes. Continued failure to verify may lead to financial penalties and legal enforcement.

What if I missed the deadline?

You can still verify later, but filings made during the unverified period may be invalid or rejected.

Avoid Penalties — Verify Today

Verifying your identity takes minutes but protects your company for years.
Keep your business fully compliant with Companies House and UK transparency laws.

Verify Now