The Purpose Behind Verification

The purpose of identity verification is to strengthen trust in the UK business environment. By confirming the identity of every director, Person with Significant Control (PSC) and authorised agent, Companies House can:

  • Prevent fraud and the misuse of corporate structures
  • Increase transparency in company ownership
  • Strengthen the UK’s reputation for fair, lawful and accountable business

A Legal Requirement Under UK Law

Identity verification is now mandatory for anyone who registers, manages or controls a company in the UK.

It forms a core part of the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act, introduced to strengthen corporate oversight and reduce economic crime from 2024 onwards.

Why Verification Protects Everyone

  • Security
    Prevents false identities and unauthorised company activities.
  • Compliance
    Ensures all records meet Companies House standards.
  • Transparency
    Links every company to verified, real individuals.
  • Trust
    Builds international confidence in UK business integrity.

What Identity Verification Helps Prevent

Who Needs to Verify

You will need to verify your identity if you are:

  • A company director
  • A director-equivalent, such as an LLP member, general partner or managing officer
  • A director of an overseas company registered in the UK
  • A Person with Significant Control (PSC)
  • An individual responsible for filing on behalf of a company, including company secretaries
  • An Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP) acting as an authorised agent

Identity verification helps protect the UK corporate system by improving transparency, reducing fraud, and ensuring the accuracy of information on the Companies House register.

How It Benefits Businesses

  • Reputation

    Verified identities enhance credibility with clients and investors.

  • Efficiency

    Simplifies company registration and updates.

  • Compliance Confidence

    Reduces risk of fines or rejected filings.

  • Customer Trust

    Demonstrates transparency and accountability.

What happens if I don’t verify my identity?

If you fail to complete identity verification on time, you may be committing a criminal offence. This could lead to prosecution, a court-issued fine, or a financial penalty from Companies House.

In the future, Companies House will also place a public note against your name on the register to show that you have not verified your identity.

Will it affect my role in a company?

Yes. If you do not verify your identity, you will not be able to:

  • be appointed as a new director of an existing company
  • register a new company or entity
  • register as an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP)

Will Companies House take action?


Yes. Companies House will use the full extent of its enforcement powers to ensure compliance and will take action against anyone who fails to verify their identity.

What happens to unverified PSCs?

They may be removed from the register and lose company rights.

Will my filings be rejected?

Yes, Companies House will not accept submissions from unverified individuals.

Are there penalties?

Yes, failure to comply can lead to fines or legal enforcement.

Stay Compliant and Build Trust

Identity verification is the foundation of transparency and trust in UK business.

Start your verification today — simple, secure, and fully compliant.

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