Joshua Leigh & Co

Companies House begins to verify identities

On 8 April 2025, Companies House introduced a new identity verification process that will affect company directors, persons with significant control (PSCs), and individuals filing on behalf of companies, such as secretaries.

Currently, the process is voluntary, but it will become mandatory for:

• New businesses by the end of 2025
• All existing entities within 12 months of their most recent filings

How to verify your identity:

• Online via GOV.UK One Login using accepted photo ID and address details.
• In person at a UK Post Office (if you are unable to verify online).
• Through an Authorised Corporate Services Provider (ACSP) authorised by Companies House.

Once verified, you’ll receive a unique personal code (similar to a company authentication code).

We will require this code to continue submitting filings on your behalf — please email it to:

statutory@joshualeighandco.com

Companies House have already begun emailing Companies’ registered email addresses. These emails should come from: companies.house@notifications.service.gov.uk

For full details, please see:

https://www.gov.uk/guidance/verifying-your-identity-for-companies-house

Act Early to Avoid Delays

While immediate action isn’t required, we strongly encourage clients to complete verification as soon as possible. Early compliance will help prevent disruptions once the rules become mandatory.

Let Us Handle It for You

As a registered Authorised Corporate Services Provider (ACSP), we can complete identity verification on your behalf. Our secure systems allow us to manage the entire process directly with Companies House.

If you’d prefer us to handle this for you, please contact us at: statutory@joshualeighandco.com

Our fees will be: £90 + VAT per person

Once verified, your identity will remain valid unless key personal details (e.g., your name or address) change.

What Happens If You Don’t Verify

You will not be able to:

• make any filings
• start a new company or entity

If you do not comply with identity verification requirements on time, you will be committing an offence and may have to pay a financial penalty or fine.

Directors

If you continue to act as a director without verifying after it becomes a legal requirement, you will be committing an offence and could be disqualified. The company (or entity) and all directors may also be committing an offence.

People with significant control (PSCs)

If you are (or were) a PSC without verifying after it becomes a legal requirement, you will be committing an offence.

If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to get in touch. We’re here to help ensure a smooth transition.

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