Are you ready for Companies House ID checks? Here's What You Need to Know

From 2025, big changes are coming to how UK companies are run, and they could affect you.

As part of the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act, Companies House is introducing mandatory identity verification for directors, people with significant control (PSCs), and anyone involved in forming or managing a UK company. These changes are aimed at tackling fraud and strengthening trust in the UK's business

environment.

Who Will Be Affected?

If you’re involved in running or setting up a company, you may need to verify your identity. This includes:

• Company directors (both existing and newly appointed)

• People with significant control (usually shareholders with 25%+ of shares or voting rights)

• Company formation agents

• Anyone filing information with Companies House on behalf of a company

  
  

How Identity Verification Will Work

Verification can be done in two ways:

• Directly through Companies House

• Through an authorised agent, such as your accountant or legal advisor

  
  

From April 2025, authorised agents (like us at Pandey & Co) can already carry out these checks. However, Companies House is expected to announce a firm date later this year when all directors and PSCs must be verified before any filings or appointments can be made.

What You Need to Do for Companies House ID checks

To stay compliant and avoid disruption to your business, we recommend taking the following steps:

1. Make sure all directors and PSCs have up-to-date photo ID (e.g., a valid passport or driving licence).

2. Decide whether to verify identities yourself or use an authorised agent—we can handle this on your behalf.

3. Ensure your company’s details at Companies House are accurate and current.

While the final deadlines are still to come, it’s a good idea to prepare now to avoid delays or complications later in the year.

Need Help?

At Pandey & Co, we’re here to guide you through these changes and make the verification process as smooth as possible. If you have questions or want help verifying your directors or PSCs, get in touch with our team today.