Identity verification has become an important part of the UK’s company registration system, with legal requirements affecting company directors and People with Significant Control (PSCs).

If you run a limited company, here’s what you need to know.

Why has Companies House introduced identity verification?

The measures form part of wider Companies House reforms intended to improve the accuracy and reliability of information on the companies register and make it harder for people to use companies for fraudulent or unlawful purposes.

In simple terms, Companies House increasingly wants to know that the people behind UK companies are who they say they are.

Who needs to verify their identity?

The requirements apply to individuals including:

  • Company directors
  • People with Significant Control (PSCs)
  • Individuals taking on certain new company roles

The exact timing and process depends on your role and circumstances.

How do I verify my identity for Companies House?

Identity can be verified directly using the government’s service or through an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP) that is authorised to carry out verification.

Barrons is registered as an ACSP and can assist clients with the Companies House identity verification process.

What is a Companies House personal code?

Once your identity has been successfully verified, you’ll receive an 11-character personal code.

Importantly, this code belongs to you, not your company.

If you’re a director of several companies, you don’t verify your identity from scratch for each company. You use the same personal code to connect your verified identity with the relevant roles you hold.

Keep the code secure.

You can share it with a trusted adviser, such as an accountant, where they need it to make filings on your behalf.

I’m already a director. What do I need to do?

Existing directors need to provide their personal code as part of the relevant Companies House process, including through the company’s confirmation statement requirements.

That connects the verified individual with their directorship.

What if I’m also a PSC?

This is where things can become slightly less intuitive.

If you’re both a director and a PSC of the same company, the personal code needs to be provided separately in relation to each role.

PSCs are also subject to specific 14-day windows for providing verification details, with the relevant period depending on their circumstances.

Don’t assume that completing the requirement as a director automatically completes everything required of you as a PSC.

I’m a director of several companies. Do I need several codes?

No.

Your Companies House personal code relates to you as an individual.

The same code can be used to connect your identity with each relevant company appointment.

Can my accountant complete the process for me?

An Authorised Corporate Service Provider can carry out identity verification services and assist with relevant Companies House requirements.

That’s particularly useful for business owners who would prefer their company secretarial requirements to be managed alongside their wider accounting and compliance obligations.

What happens if I ignore identity verification?

Identity verification is a legal requirement, not an optional Companies House feature.

Directors and PSCs should therefore understand when their requirements apply and make sure the appropriate steps are completed on time.

Let Barrons help

Companies House compliance is changing, but managing it doesn’t need to become another job on your list.

Barrons can help existing and new clients understand their identity verification obligations and, as an Authorised Corporate Service Provider, assist with the verification process.

You concentrate on running the company. We’ll help keep Companies House happy.

Speak to the Barrons Company Secretarial team for more information.

This article reflects Companies House requirements at the date of publication. Requirements can depend on individual circumstances and may change.