Mandatory identity checks for directors and persons with significant control (PSCs) will soon become part of company law.
As an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP), Redfern Legal LLP can complete Companies House identity checks for your directors and PSCs. We handle the process end-to-end and generate the personal code you will need for filings.
Why this matters
The Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023 introduces identity checks to improve the accuracy of the register, reduce fraud, and prevent misuse of UK companies.
Who must verify and by when
From 18 November 2025, the new rules will take effect. The timing depends on whether the role is new or already in place. However, voluntary verification is already open, and we recommend completing the process sooner rather than later.
New appointments from 18 November 2025
- New directors, LLP members, and partners in limited partnerships must complete verification before appointment.
- New PSCs must complete verification within 14 days of being added to the register.
- Company founders must complete verification at incorporation.
- Directors of overseas companies with a UK establishment must complete verification before appointment.
Existing appointments already in place before 18 November 2025
- Directors and LLP members must complete verification before the first confirmation statement filed after 18 November 2025.
- PSCs must complete verification within 12 months. Where someone is both a PSC and a director, separate verification is required for each role. If a PSC is not also a director, verification must be completed within 14 days of the start of their next birth month.
Filers
- From spring 2026, anyone filing on behalf of a company must be verified, unless acting as or for an ACSP.
How to verify
Two routes are available.
- Direct with Companies House
- Use GOV.UK One Login.
- Typical documents include a biometric passport, a UK photo driving licence, or a UK BRP.
- UK residents without compatible documents can use the Post Office face-to-face route offered via One Login.
- Through an ACSP
- You can choose this route if you prefer to have the process handled for you, or if you do not have a biometric passport or cannot meet the One Login requirements.
- ACSPs can use a wider range of documents and run secure biometric checks.
- After completion, we will send you your Companies House personal code. Keep the code safe since you will need it for appointments, incorporations, and confirmation statements.
Consequences of not complying
Failure to verify is a criminal offence. Outcomes may include:
- Financial penalties or fines.
- Disqualification from acting as a director.
- Liability for the individual and the company.
- Inability to make filings or incorporate.
Practical steps now
- Tell all directors and PSCs about the requirement.
- Identify anyone who will need ACSP assistance.
- Verify early during the voluntary window to avoid a rush near the deadline.
- Record personal codes securely so filings are not delayed.
How Redfern Legal can help
As an ACSP, Redfern Legal LLP verifies directors and PSCs quickly and securely to ensure your company remains compliant with the new rules. Contact us to get started.
Selin Gok Email: SGok@redfernlegal.com
