Many company directors and Persons with Significant Control (PSCs) are now receiving emails and letters from Companies House regarding the new identity verification requirements introduced under the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act.
If you have recently received a notification from Companies House, you may be wondering:
- Do I need to verify my identity?
- What is a PSC?
- What is a Companies House personal code?
- What happens if I do not verify?
- Can my accountant verify my identity?
This guide explains everything you need to know.
What Is Companies House Identity Verification?
Identity verification is a new legal requirement introduced by Companies House to improve transparency and help prevent the misuse of UK companies for fraudulent or illegal activities.
By law, individuals holding certain positions within UK companies will need to verify their identity and prove they are who they claim to be.
According to Companies House, identity verification aims to:
- Reduce the risk of fraud
- Improve transparency and trust
- Increase the accuracy of information held on the public register
You can read the official guidance here:
👉 https://www.gov.uk/guidance/verifying-your-identity-for-companies-house
Who Needs to Verify Their Identity?
You may need to verify your identity if you are:
- A Company Director
- A Person with Significant Control (PSC)
- A Director of an Overseas Company Registered in the UK
- A Member of an LLP
- An Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP)
Many small business owners are both a director and a PSC.
What Is a PSC?
PSC stands for Person with Significant Control.
Generally, you are considered a PSC if you:
- Own more than 25% of a company’s shares
- Hold more than 25% of the voting rights
- Have the right to appoint or remove a majority of directors
- Otherwise exercise significant influence or control over the company
If you are unsure whether you are a PSC, professional advice should be sought before making Companies House filings.
What Is a Companies House Personal Code?
Once your identity has been successfully verified, Companies House will issue you with a unique Companies House Personal Code.
This code is unique to you and will be required for various Companies House processes, including:
- Confirmation Statements
- Director Appointments
- PSC Verification Requirements
- Authorised Corporate Service Provider Registration
You should keep your personal code secure and only share it with trusted advisers acting on your behalf.
Can I Verify My Identity for Free?
Yes.
Companies House allows individuals to verify their identity directly using the GOV.UK One Login service free of charge.
However, some directors and PSCs prefer to use an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP) such as an accountant or solicitor for assistance and compliance support.
What Happens If You Do Not Verify?
Failure to comply with Companies House identity verification requirements may result in:
- Restrictions on company filings
- Inability to file certain Companies House documents
- Delays in Confirmation Statements
- Financial penalties
- Potential prosecution for continued non-compliance
Companies House has confirmed that enforcement action may be taken where individuals fail to meet their legal obligations.
Director Identity Verification Service – £50
Liberty Accounting & Training Ltd is an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP) and can verify your identity for Companies House.
Our service includes:
✔ Director Identity Verification
✔ Verification Submission via ACSP
✔ Guidance on Companies House Personal Codes
✔ Compliance Support
✔ Fast Online Process
Fixed Fee: £50 per person
No VAT
No Hidden Charges
No Extra Costs
PSC Identity Verification Service – £50
If you are a Person with Significant Control (PSC), we can also assist with your verification requirements.
Our PSC verification service includes:
✔ PSC Identity Verification
✔ Companies House Compliance Guidance
✔ Support with Personal Code Requirements
✔ Fast Online Verification
Fixed Fee: £50 per person
No VAT
No Hidden Charges
No Extra Costs
Why Choose Liberty Accounting & Training Ltd?
- Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP)
- UK Anti-Money Laundering Supervised Firm
- Experienced Companies House Agent
- Fast Online Service
- Fixed Fee Pricing
- Professional Support
We also assist with:
- Confirmation Statements
- Director Appointments and Resignations
- PSC Updates
- Companies House Filings
- Company Formations
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. Identity verification is being introduced as a legal requirement for directors, PSCs and certain other individuals connected with UK companies.
Yes. You can verify your identity directly through GOV.UK One Login free of charge.
Yes. An Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP), such as an accountant, can verify your identity on your behalf.
Our fee is £50 per person.
A PSC is a Person with Significant Control over a company, usually through ownership, voting rights or influence.
Need Help with Companies House Identity Verification?
If you have received a Companies House email or letter regarding identity verification, we can help.
Liberty Accounting & Training Ltd
Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP)
Director Verification – £50
PSC Verification – £50
No VAT • No Hidden Charges • No Extra Costs
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