From 18 November 2025, new rules mean all company directors and people with significant control (PSCs) must verify their identity with Companies House. This is part of the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023, aimed at reducing fraud and improving transparency.
If you’re a director or PSC, here’s what you need to do and when.
Step 1: Get your ID ready
You’ll need valid photo ID, such as:
- Passport
- Driving licence
Step 2: Verify your identity
You’ll use the official Verify your identity for Companies House service, which works through GOV.UK One Login.
If you don’t already have a GOV.UK One Login:
- Use a personal email address that no one else is using.
- Shared or group email addresses won’t work.
- If asked for your address, enter your home address.
Step 3: Receive your Companies House Personal Code
Once verified, you’ll be issued with a personal code.
- Keep this safe.
- You’ll need to provide it whenever you act in a company role.
- If you are a PaperRocket client please pass this code on to us so we can ensure your company filings are completed correctly.
Step 4: Know when to use your personal code
The rules depend on your role:
- If you’re a director
You’ll need to include your personal code on your company’s next confirmation statement filed after 18 November 2025. Without this, the statement can’t be filed. - If you’re both a director and a PSC
You only verify once, but you’ll need to provide your code for both roles:- As a director: in the company’s confirmation statement.
- As a PSC: through a separate online service within 14 days of the company’s confirmation statement date (service available from 18 November).
- If you’re a PSC but not a director
You’ll need to provide your code during the first 14 days of your birth month each year. Example: if your birthday is 22 January, your code must be provided between 1–14 January.
Step 5: Check your company deadlines
- After 18 November, no company can file a confirmation statement without all directors’ codes.
- Make sure all directors and PSCs in your company are aware of the rules and complete the process early.
Step 6: Check your Companies House details
Before filing, double-check that Companies House holds the correct personal information for you (such as your date of birth). If the details don’t match your ID documents, you won’t be able to link your verified identity to your company roles.
Key things to remember
- You only need to verify your identity once, but your code must be used for every role you hold.
- Keep your personal code secure, but share it with PaperRocket if you’d like us to handle your filings.
- All directors must be verified before the company’s next confirmation statement after 18 November 2025.
- Acting early avoids delays and penalties.
In summary
Identity checks are becoming a compulsory part of company compliance. Make sure you verify early using the official Companies House service now, keep your personal code safe, and pass it on to us so we can handle your filings smoothly.
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