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Zarafsha Hussain, Vincents Solicitors
Zarafsha Hussain Trainee Solicitor

Upcoming Changes: Identity Verification for Companies House to prevent fraud

Company directors are being asked to verify their identity with Companies House to help prevent fraud and identity theft. The government wants the new security measures to root out fraudsters and criminals ‘masquerading’ as legitimate businesses.
Companies House is also hoping that by pre-registering, business owners and directors will save themselves time and effort in the future.

Vincents Solicitors corporate specialist Zarafsha Hussain takes us through it.

New changes are being introduced under the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023 to improve the integrity of the Companies House register. A key reform is Identity Verification, designed to prevent misuse of the register for corruption, money laundering, and fraud.

Who Needs to Verify Their Identity?

If you fall into any of the following categories, you will need to verify your identity:

  • Company directors or their equivalents
  • Persons with Significant Control (PSCs)
  • Individuals filing on behalf of a company, such as company secretaries

Key Dates to Know

  • From April 2025: Identity verification will be available on a voluntary basis.
  • By August 2025: Verification is expected to become mandatory.

Businesses should take advantage of the voluntary phase to prepare for compliance before the deadline.

What Happens If You Don’t Verify?

Failure to comply with identity verification requirements will be an offence. This could result in:

  • Financial penalties or fines
  • Possible disqualification from holding company positions

How Can You Verify Your Identity?

There are several ways to complete identity verification:

  • Online via the Gov.uk One Login service
  • In person at a Post Office
  • Through an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP), such as an accountant or solicitor (must be registered with a UK anti-money laundering supervisory body)

For full guidance, visit:

Verifying Your Identity for Companies House

 

Vincents Solicitors

Our Solicitor Michael Sandys, head of the Corporate and Commercial department, can advise on Company law matters. If you need guidance or support, contact us at MichaelSandys@vslaw.co.uk.