Companies House Identity Verification: Is Your Board Compliant in 2026?

If you run a UK company, you may already be aware that Companies House is undergoing the most significant reform in its history. As part of the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act, Companies House is transitioning from a passive registrar to an active gatekeeper of corporate information.

A central part of this reform is identity verification (IDV). From late 2025 and throughout 2026, identity verification is being phased in as a mandatory requirement for most people involved in running or controlling a UK company.

If you have not yet addressed identity verification for your board or ownership structure, 2026 is the year it becomes critical. This guide explains who needs to verify, when, and how to stay compliant.

From late 2025 and throughout 2026, identity verification is being phased in as a mandatory requirement for most people involved in running or controlling a UK company

What Is Companies House Identity Verification?

Companies House identity verification requires certain individuals connected to a UK company to confirm their identity using an approved method. Once verified, that individual can legally act in their role (such as director or PSC) and file information with Companies House.

The aim is to:

• Prevent fraudulent or anonymous directorships

• Improve transparency over company ownership and control

• Reduce economic crime and misuse of UK companies

Who Needs to Complete Companies House Identity Verification?

The identity verification rules apply broadly. It is not limited to company founders or managing directors.

1. Company Directors

All directors of a UK company are caught, whether newly appointed or already in office. This includes executive, non-executive, and “silent” directors.

2. People with Significant Control (PSCs)

You are usually a PSC of a UK company if you own more than 25% of the shares in the company or control more than 25% of the voting rights in the company or otherwise exercise significant influence or control over the company.

3. Company Secretaries

Where a UK company has a secretary, that individual will also need to be verified.

4. Document Filers

When the filer regime goes live, anyone who submits documents to Companies House (digitally or otherwise) must also be identity-verified. This may include employees, accountants, or family members acting on a UK company’s behalf

Companies House Identity Verification Deadlines

Identity verification is being introduced in stages, with deadlines linked to role type and filing events.

1. New directors & PSCs

Verification must be completed before their appointment or registration is filed.

2. Existing directors

Verification must be completed by the company’s next Confirmation Statement filing date.

3. Existing PSCs

If an existing PSC is not also a director, their 14-day verification window opens on the first day of their birth month in 2026. (e.g., if born in March, they must verify between 1–14 March 2026).

4. Document filers

Verification must be completed from the point the filer regime becomes active (expected during Spring/Summer 2026).

It is important to note that some dates and mechanisms are subject to secondary legislation and Companies House guidance. Businesses should monitor updates or seek professional advice to avoid missing transitional deadlines.

How to Complete Companies House Identity Verification

There are three approved routes. Most individuals only need to use one.

Option 1: Digital Verification via Gov.uk (Most Common)

This is the fastest and most popular method which involves the following steps:

1. Create or sign in using Gov.uk One Login

2. Use the Gov.uk ID Check app

3. Scan a biometric passport or UK driving licence

4. Complete a facial verification check

Once successful, you receive a personal code known as a Companies House Personal Code which you will use for all future Companies House roles. Your Companies House Personal Code is unique to you, not the company. You only need to verify once, even if you are a director of multiple companies.

Option 2: Post Office Face-to-Face Verification

This route is suitable if you do not have a biometric identity document or would prefer in-person verification. You begin the process online and complete identity checks at a participating Post Office branch.

Option 3: Verification via an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP)

An Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP) (such as an accountant, solicitor, or regulated corporate services firm) can verify your identity on your behalf. This route is often preferred where there are overseas directors or PSCs, the ownership structure is complex or the company wants a managed, audit-ready compliance process

What Happens If You Don’t Comply?

Under the new regime, Companies House has enhanced enforcement powers. Failure to comply with identity verification requirements may result in:

• Blocked filings, including Confirmation Statements

• Late filing penalties and enforcement action

• Criminal offences for persistent non-compliance

• Director disqualification in serious cases

In practice, non-verified companies may find themselves unable to make legally required filings, putting the company at risk.

Practical Action Plan for Company Owners

To stay compliant in 2026, we recommend:

Step 1: Review your PSC register

Ensure all PSCs are correctly identified and recorded.

Step 2: Confirm director verification status

Do not assume existing directors are exempt.

Step 3: Check your next Confirmation Statement date

Verification must be completed before filing.

Step 4: Identify who files for your company

Employees or advisers may also need verification once filer rules apply.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Do overseas directors need to complete Companies House identity verification?

Yes. Nationality or residency does not remove the requirement to verify.

2. Can I act as a director without completing identity verification?

Once the rules apply to your role, you must be verified to act lawfully and to file information.

3. Can my accountant verify my identity?

Yes, if they are registered as an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP).

4 Is Companies House identity verification free?

Direct digital verification via GOV.UK is free. ACSPs may charge a professional fee.