Companies House Introduces New ID Checks for Directors
From 18 November 2025, Companies House will introduce a new identity check process for company directors.
The new process forms part of the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023, which aims to improve corporate accountability and reduce fraud by ensuring every person connected to a company can be clearly identified.
What are the new rules?
Since April 2024, individuals have been able to verify their identity voluntarily through Companies House or through an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP).
However, from 18 November 2025, verification will become compulsory for:
- all new directors and people with significant control (PSCs)
- existing directors and PSCs
- and members of limited liability partnerships (LLPs)
There are also plans for identity verification to be required by law for people who file at Companies House, limited partnerships, corporate directors of companies, corporate members of LLPs and officers of corporate PSCs.
How do I verify my identity?
- Verify via Companies House
The simplest way is to log into your Gov.uk account and verify using an ID document such as a passport or driving licence.
- Verify via an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP)
An Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP) is an individual or business authorised by Companies House to carry out identity checks on behalf of their clients. Once verified, the ACSP confirms this directly to Companies House, meaning the person has met their legal obligations without needing to complete the process themselves.
Some business owners may choose to verify through an ACSP because it can be quicker and easier for their business, especially if they already work with a solicitor, accountant or company formation agent who can manage the process for them. It can also save time for companies with several directors or people with significant control, as one professional can verify multiple individuals at once.
Further information on the new process can be found here.
If you need support with a company or commercial matter, please get in touch with our Corporate team.