When you start or manage a company in the UK, one of the key regulators you’ll deal with is Companies House the official registrar of companies. Recently, Companies House has tightened its rules and verification processes as part of reforms to increase corporate transparency, reduce fraud, and tackle money laundering.

If you’re a company director, shareholder, or someone planning to register a business, you’ll need to understand what Companies House verification means and how it impacts you. Let’s break it down step by step.

What is Companies House Verification?

Verification at Companies House is the process of confirming the identity of individuals associated with a company. This applies to directors, Persons with Significant Control (PSCs), and those filing documents on behalf of the company.

The purpose is simple: to ensure that only real, traceable people are behind UK companies, making it harder for fraudsters to misuse businesses for illegal activities like tax evasion, money laundering, or hiding assets.

Why Has Verification Become Stricter?

The Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023 introduced stronger rules for company information. The UK government has been under pressure to close loopholes that allowed anonymous shell companies and fake identities to be used in corporate filings.

Key goals of the reforms:

• Prevent fraud and abuse of UK-registered companies.
• Increase trust in business information available on the public register.
• Protect the UK economy from financial crime.

Who Needs to Verify Their Identity?

Not everyone connected to a company will need verification. But if you’re in one of these roles, it’s essential:

1. Company Directors – Every director of a UK company must verify their identity.
2. Persons with Significant Control (PSCs) – Usually shareholders with more than 25% ownership or voting rights.
3. Company Secretaries (if appointed).
4. Authorized Filers – Individuals or agents (like accountants or company formation agents) who file documents on behalf of a company.

How Will Verification Work?

Companies House has introduced two main verification routes:

1. Direct Verification with Companies House

• You upload ID documents (passport, driving licence, etc.) directly through a secure Companies House system.
• A photo/selfie check may be required to confirm it’s you.
• Once approved, your identity is linked to your Companies House profile.

2. Verification via an Authorised Agent

• Accountants, company formation agents, and other regulated professionals can verify your ID on behalf of Companies House.
• This is useful if you’re already working with an accountant for compliance and filings.

When Does Verification Happen?

• New Companies – Directors and PSCs must verify before the company is registered.
• Existing Companies – Current directors and PSCs will be given a time window (to be announced by Companies House) to complete verification.
• Ongoing Filings – If you submit filings (like annual returns or accounts), the filer must be verified first.

What Happens if You Don’t Verify?

Failure to complete verification can have serious consequences:

• You may not be able to form a new company.
• Existing directors who don’t verify may be blocked from acting as directors.
• Filings made by unverified individuals will be rejected.
• In extreme cases, the company could face penalties or even dissolution.

What Documents are Needed for Verification?

Typically, you’ll need:

• Proof of Identity – Passport, UK driving licence, national ID card.
• Proof of Address – Recent utility bill, bank statement, or official government correspondence.
• Selfie/Live Photo Check – To match your face with the ID provided.

Benefits of Companies House Verification

While it may feel like extra paperwork, verification has clear benefits for businesses:

• Builds trust and credibility with customers, suppliers, and investors.
• Reduces the risk of fraudulent activity under your company’s name.
• Ensures the UK remains a safe, transparent place to do business.

How to Prepare for Verification

• Check your details – Make sure your Companies House records (address, date of birth, names) are accurate and match your ID documents.
• Get your documents ready – Keep valid ID and proof of address handy.
• Decide how you’ll verify – Directly with Companies House or through an authorised agent.
• Act early – Don’t wait until the deadline; delays could disrupt your filings.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How do I verify my identity for Companies House UK?

You can verify your identity in two ways:

• Directly with Companies House: Upload your passport, driving licence, or other accepted ID and complete a photo/selfie check.
• Through an Authorised Agent (ACSP): An accountant, lawyer, or formation agent can verify your identity on your behalf if they are registered with Companies House.

Once verified, your identity will be linked to your Companies House profile for future filings.

2. What is a verification statement for Companies House?

A verification statement is a declaration confirming that an individual’s identity has been checked and verified, either directly by Companies House or through an authorised agent.

• It’s essentially proof that the person behind a company role (like a director or PSC) is genuine and traceable.
• Without a valid verification statement, the person cannot legally act in their company role or submit filings.

3. What documents can be used to verify identity in the UK?

Commonly accepted documents include:

• Proof of Identity: UK passport, foreign passport, UK photocard driving licence, national ID card (for EEA citizens).
• Proof of Address: Recent utility bill, bank statement, council tax bill, mortgage statement, or government-issued letter (usually dated within the last 3 months).
• In most cases, you’ll also be asked to take a selfie or live photo to match your ID.

4. What is Companies House name check?

The Companies House name check is a free online tool to see if your desired company name is available before registering.

You can search on the Companies House register to check for duplicates.

Rules to remember:

• The name must be unique and not “too similar” to an existing company.
• It must not contain sensitive or offensive words.
• Certain terms like “bank,” “trust,” or “royal” need special permission.

Doing a name check before incorporation saves time and prevents rejection of your company application.

Final Thoughts

Companies House verification is a major change for UK businesses, but it’s designed to bring greater transparency and security to the company register. Whether you’re a new entrepreneur or managing an established business, it’s wise to prepare now.

Staying compliant means fewer risks, smoother operations, and greater trust in your company’s profile. Need help with Companies House filings or verification? Let us handle it for you so you can focus on growing your business.