Companies House Reform – Identity Verification

Do I need to verify my identity? 

If you’re a company director or a person with significant control (PSC) must verify your identity with Companies House. 

Why do I need to verify my identity? 

Companies House Identity verification is a new legal requirement. It will help to deter people intending to use companies for illegal purposes – reducing the risk of fraud and improving transparency.  

How do I verify my identity? 

The simplest way to verify your identity is using the Government’s GOV.UK One Login. (Remember – the verification is for yourself – not your business.) 

All you’ll need to verify your identity using GOV.UK One Login is:  

• A valid email address (and access to it) 

• A mobile phone (for security verification and scanning documents) 

• One of the following forms of ID: 

• Passport (preferred – must have a biometric chip) 

• UK Driving License 

• UK Residency Card or Permit 

To help you through the process we’ve created a simple step-by-step guide. 

REMEMBER – if you don’t have access to GOV.UK One Login you can verify your identity at a post office.  

What happens when you verify?

Once your identity has been verified you’ll receive a code known as a Companies House personal code. This unique code is personal to you, not your business or any company.

From 18^th November you’ll need the code to file your confirmation statement or when you are appointed as a director or become a PSC. 

You’ll also need the personal code to connect your verified identity to Companies House records.  

Important – Director verification is a legal requirement and as such is mandatory.  

Keep your Companies House Personal Code Safe. 

It’s important to keep your unique code safe as you would with any other codes sign as your Unique Taxpayer Reference (UTR) for HMRC. You may need to share the code with people you trust, such as your accountant, but it’s important to ensure it’s shared in a secure manner. 

How to access your personal code.

If you haven’t taken a note of your personal code you’ll need to revisit companies house to access your code. We’ve made a short video to help guide you through the process.

What happens if you do not verify your identity?

If you fail to verify your identity you will not be able to: 

• File any records relating to your business 

• Set up a new company 

If you’re still having trouble verifying your identity your client manager can help.