Companies House identity checks: the deadline for directors is close
Identity verification became a legal requirement on 18 November 2025, with a 12-month transition. Every director and person with significant control needs to verify by their due date.
The Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act gave Companies House new powers to check who runs and owns UK companies. From 18 November 2025, identity verification became a legal requirement. That date started a 12-month transition, during which existing directors and people with significant control (PSCs) must verify by their own due dates, usually linked to the company’s confirmation statement.
Verifying online
- One LoginSign in to, or create, a GOV.UK One Login with your own email address.
- Photo IDUse a biometric passport, UK photo driving licence, or a UK residence permit or card.
- AddressGive your current address and the year you moved in.
- Personal codeReceive a personal code, which links your verified identity to your roles.
Without the usual photo ID
If you do not have suitable photo ID, the One Login service can let some people verify with bank or building society details and their National Insurance number, or in person at a Post Office. Expired documents cannot be used for these routes.
What to do this month
- List every director and PSC across all your companies, and check each one’s due date.
- Verify yourself now, even if your date is later: it takes minutes.
- Keep each person’s personal code safe; it is needed to link them to the company.
- Use one email address per person: an address can only be used to verify one identity.
This insight is general information, not advice for your circumstances. Talk to us before acting on it.