If you’re a company director or a person with significant control (PSC), Companies House identity checks are now a legal requirement. These checks were introduced as part of wider reforms to reduce fraud and improve the accuracy of the public register – and they’re no longer optional.
If you haven’t yet completed your identity verification, or you’re unsure whether you’ve done everything required, this guide, that the Dunkley’s team have put together, explains what you need to do now, how to check your position, and how to stay compliant.
Why Identity Checks Now Matter
Companies House used to accept information largely on trust. That has changed.
Since late 2025, Companies House has had stronger powers to question, reject and remove incorrect or suspicious information. Identity verification is a key part of this shift, making it harder for people to act as directors or controllers using false details.
In practice, this means you must prove who you are before you can legally act in certain roles.
Who Needs to Have Verified Their Identity?
You are required to have completed identity verification if you are:
- A company director
- A person with significant control (PSC)
- An LLP member or equivalent role
- A director of an overseas company registered in the UK
If your name appears on Companies House in a controlling role, you should assume verification is required.
Two Steps That Must Both Be Done
A common issue we are seeing is people completing only half of the process.
There are two separate steps:
- Verify your identity
- Link your verified identity to each role you hold
Doing the first step without the second is not enough to be compliant.
How Identity Verification Works
Most people verify their identity online using gov.uk One Login. The process is free and usually takes just a few minutes, using:
- An app
- Online security questions
- Or photo ID (sometimes with Post Office support)
Some directors choose to verify via an authorised agent (such as their accountant), which can be helpful if you are overseas or prefer support. Agents may charge a fee.
Your Companies House Personal Code
Once verified, you receive a Companies House personal code. This is a unique identifier that stays with you.
Key points to remember:
- You usually only verify once
- The same code is used for all companies and roles
- The code must be kept secure and only shared with trusted people who file on your behalf
Linking Your Identity to Your Roles
For Directors
Your personal code must be included when your company files its confirmation statement. If a director is not verified, Companies House will reject the filing.
For PSCs
PSCs must submit their personal code separately, within a defined 14-day window. The exact timing depends on your role and is shown on the Companies House register.
If you are both a director and a PSC, you must complete both processes separately.
New Companies and Appointments
If you are setting up a new company or appointing a new director in 2026, identity verification must now be done before or at the point of appointment. Filings cannot be completed without personal codes.
What Happens if You Haven’t Complied?
Failure to verify and link your identity has real consequences:
- Acting as a director without verification is unlawful
- Companies House can impose penalties or take enforcement action
- Confirmation statements may be rejected
- Continued non-compliance can be referred to the Insolvency Service
Even if no immediate fine is issued, continuing to act without verification still puts you at risk.
A Simple Compliance Checklist
To stay on the right side of the rules:
- Confirm which roles you hold (director, PSC, LLP member)
- Ensure your identity has been verified
- Store your personal code securely
- Check confirmation statement dates for each company
- Make sure your code has been submitted for every role
Final Thoughts
Companies House identity checks are now part of day-to-day company compliance. Once completed properly, they shouldn’t be a burden – but missing a step can cause delays, rejected filings and legal issues.
If you’re unsure how to navigate this, or you manage multiple companies and want help keeping track, we can review your position and take care of the process for you. Call us on 01454 619900 or email us to book in a meeting at advice@dunkleys.accountants.