Companies House Director ID verification: Rayner Essex supporting UK businesses

Companies House is introducing a major compliance shift from November 2025.

Identity verification will become mandatory for all company directors, members of LLPs, persons with significant control (PSCs), and anyone involved in managing or filing documents on behalf of UK companies, from 18 November 2025.

 This reform, part of the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023 (ECCTA), aims to enhance the integrity of the UK’s corporate register, reduce fraud and scams, and improve business transparency.

Under the new rules, anyone appointed as a director, PSC or LLP member will need to verify their identity with Companies House before their appointment can be accepted.

 A 12-month grace period will apply to existing officers, requiring verification by autumn 2026 via the company’s next confirmation statement. This means that the length of the grace period depends on when a company’s confirmation statement is due for filing.

Per Companies House guidance, the changes also apply to individuals responsible for filing on behalf of companies or LLPs. This includes agents, administrators, and company secretaries (unless they use a third party). It is therefore essential for businesses to act early to avoid delays or penalties (GOV.UK).

Why are Companies House identity verification rules being introduced?

The UK has long been regarded as one of the easiest places in the world to register and operate a company. While this has encouraged innovation and entrepreneurship, it has also created opportunities for individuals to hide fraudulent or illicit activity behind anonymous or opaque company structures.

The introduction of identity verification is a response to growing concerns around economic crime and the misuse of UK companies. These reforms are intended to improve the accuracy of the Companies House register, prevent abuse of the system for criminal purposes, and increase trust in the corporate environment. They will also make it more difficult for individuals to hide their identity or control UK companies without oversight.

What the Companies House ID verification rules require

All directors, LLP members and PSCs must now prove their identity through one of three approved routes: the new GOV.UK One Login system, face-to-face services at designated Post Office branches, or via a registered Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP).

Once verified, each person receives a unique personal verification code that links them to Companies House filings across all appointments. This is typically a one-time requirement unless key personal details change.

Verification is already available on a voluntary basis, but from 18 November 2025, it will become mandatory for all new incorporations and officer changes.

Existing officers who don’t comply in time could face rejected filings, administrative delays, and enforcement action.

What happens if directors don’t verify with Companies House

The verification process is relatively straightforward for most, but Companies House has been clear that failure to comply will carry consequences. These include civil penalties of up to £10,000, disqualification from acting as a director, and in serious cases, the possibility of criminal prosecution for non-compliance, as confirmed by the ICAEW.

For businesses, delays in filing confirmation statements, appointments or statutory updates could disrupt operations, banking arrangements or even investor confidence.

As the deadline approaches, proactively planning for verification now gives businesses more control and reduces the risk of being caught out closer to their deadline.

How Rayner Essex supports directors with ID verification

Rayner Essex LLP is a registered Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP), authorised to verify identities on behalf of directors, LLP members, and PSCs.

As part of our service, we guide clients through each step of the verification process, whether that means supporting them through GOV.UK’s One Login setup or managing their verification directly through our own ACSP procedures on their behalf.

Our team ensures every verification meets both anti-money laundering (AML) and Companies House requirements. We use a verified and tested third-party application that allows individuals to complete their mandatory identity check via a secure mobile app. This process ensures all criteria are met and full records are retained in line with the statutory seven-year requirement.

We also monitor companies’ filing cycles, track director changes, and provide timely reminders well in advance of deadlines. This significantly reduces the administrative burden and helps prevent any late submissions or rejected filings, particularly for clients who may find it challenging to navigate the new reforms.

Our expert team works closely with Companies House to manage filings and address any potential issues on your behalf, ensuring a smooth and compliant process from start to finish.

Our aim is to make this transition simple, stress-free, and fully compliant with the latest regulations, no matter how many entities or directors are involved.

Why early ID verification matters for company directors

Although the mandatory rules do not come into force until November 2025, the GOV.UK One Login system is already live, and early compliance is strongly encouraged by Companies House. The earlier you verify, the more likely you are to avoid disruption.

We recommend not waiting until verification becomes mandatory. With millions of directors and PSCs needing to complete the process, Companies House is expected to face heavy demand this autumn. Technical delays and slower response times are likely as the deadline approaches, which could impact your ability to make timely submissions. So even if your effective deadline is the middle of 2026, you should start this process at your earliest opportunity.

Rayner Essex LLP is currently supporting a wide range of businesses through the verification process, from single-director companies to larger corporate groups: providing proactive advice and full ACSP-based verification ahead of the upcoming deadlines.

If you’re unsure how these changes affect your business or would like us to manage the verification process for your directors, members or PSCs, we’re here to help.

Let Rayner Essex LLP manage your Companies House Director ID verification so you can focus on what you do best: running and growing your business with complete peace of mind.

Get in touch

As Companies House takes on greater powers under the new corporate transparency reforms, the role of a trusted adviser is more important than ever. Ensuring your company’s identity verification and incorporation processes are professionally managed is essential to stay ahead of these regulatory changes. Accurate and compliant filings not only reduce risk but also reflect the transparency and integrity expected under the new regime.

If your business is navigating these changes, or you want expert support to handle the process on your behalf, our team is here to help so contact us today. Get in touch with our compliance and company incorporation specialists to ensure your business is protected and fully prepared.