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From 18 November 2025, every UK founder who sets up, runs or controls a company must verify their identity with Companies House.
This change forms part of a wider reform programme designed to reduce fraud, improve transparency and strengthen trust in the UK’s corporate framework. If you are a director, a person with significant control or someone who files on behalf of a company, these rules apply directly to you.
This article explains what the ID verification for UK founders means, when you must complete it and how to do it quickly and compliantly.
Why identity verification now matters for every founder
The verification rules have been introduced as part of broader reforms designed to reduce fraud and protect the accuracy of the Companies House register.
By law, individuals must now prove who they are before they can run, own or control a company.
If you do not complete the required checks on time, you risk fines, penalties and delays to key filings.
In some cases, you may not be able to act as a director at all until verification is complete.
Who must verify their identity
You need to verify your identity if you are any of the following:
- a company director
- a member or managing officer of an LLP or LP
- a director of an overseas company registered in the UK
- a person with significant control (PSC)
- someone who files documents for a company
- an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP)
Most people only need to verify once unless Companies House asks for a repeat check.
Key deadlines founders must meet
The rules are already in force for new appointments, and will apply to all existing roles from 18 November 2025.
New directors and PSCs
- Must verify before registering a company or being appointed.
- PSCs must verify within 14 days of being added to the register.
Existing directors
- Must verify before filing their first confirmation statement after 18 November 2025.
- Directors with multiple companies must provide their personal code for each one.
Existing PSCs
Your timeline depends on your role:
- PSCs who are also directors must provide their code around the company’s confirmation statement date.
- PSCs who are not directors must provide their code within the first 14 days of their birth month.
Further phases for corporate directors, corporate PSCs and people who file will follow later.
What the verification process involves
There are two ways to verify your identity:
1. Through GOV.UK One Login
This service is free and uses one of three methods:
- the GOV.UK ID Check app
- online financial security questions
- in-branch verification at a participating Post Office
This can work well, but it relies on having the right devices, documents and data. Many founders prefer a guided alternative to avoid delays.
2. Through an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP)
An ACSP is authorised by Companies House to complete verification on your behalf.
As your ACSP, Addition handles the entire process for you, following strict guidelines and making sure your documents meet the required standards.
This is especially useful if:
- you hold older forms of identification
- you have limited access to the GOV.UK service
- you want a professional to manage compliance across multiple directorships
- you prefer a secure, managed process rather than navigating the steps yourself
What happens after you verify
Once verified, you receive a personal Companies House code. This code is essential because it links your confirmed identity to all roles you hold and must be used for:
- confirmation statements
- director appointments
- PSC updates
- ACSP registration
This code must be kept secure and shared only with trusted professionals such as your accountant or your ACSP.
What happens if you miss the deadline
Missing your deadline has serious consequences:
- you cannot be appointed as a director
- your company cannot file its confirmation statement
- you cannot register a new company
- you may commit an offence and face fines or prosecution
- Companies House will show a public note on the register against your name
Founders managing multiple companies or PSC roles should prioritise completing verification early to avoid any disruption.
Why Addition is the perfect partner for ID verification
As an Authorised Corporate Service Provider, Addition removes the friction, uncertainty and admin from ID verification. We take care of the process end-to-end so you can remain focused on running your business.
With Addition, you benefit from:
- expert oversight ensuring every requirement is met
- a hassle-free submission process managed on your behalf
- secure handling of all documents in line with AML rules
- support for multiple directorships or PSC roles
- guidance on your deadlines based on your role and company structure
If you already work with Addition for your accounting or financial operations, identity verification can be integrated seamlessly into your existing support.
What to do next
To keep your business compliant, simply complete the ID Verification request form and we will handle the entire process for you.
Summary
The new Companies House identity verification rules mark a major shift in UK company compliance. Every founder, director and PSC must complete verification, and missing the deadline carries real risk. Working with an ACSP such as Addition gives you certainty, accuracy and peace of mind.
Ready to get verified? Complete the request form and our team will take care of the full process for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do all directors need to verify their identity?
Yes. Every director of a UK company must complete identity verification. New directors must verify before they are appointed. Existing directors must do so before filing their first confirmation statement after 18 November 2025.
Does this apply to PSCs as well?
Yes. Persons with significant control have their own deadlines depending on whether they are also company directors. Missing these deadlines may result in penalties or filing restrictions.
Can I still run my company if I do not verify on time?
No. If you do not complete verification by your required deadline, you may not be able to act as a director, register a new company or file documents. Companies House may also mark your record publicly.
What documents do I need to verify my identity?
You will usually need a biometric passport, UK driving licence or another form of valid photo ID. If you verify through Addition, we will confirm exactly what documents you need and guide you step by step.
Is GOV.UK One Login the only way to verify?
No. You can verify your identity through GOV.UK One Login or through an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP) such as Addition. Many founders prefer using an ACSP for the additional guidance and reduced admin.
How long does the verification process take?
If you verify through the app, the process can be completed in minutes. If you work with Addition, we handle the full process as quickly as possible and ensure your documents meet all requirements from the start.
What is a Companies House personal code?
Once verified, you receive a unique code linking your identity to every role you hold. You must use this code for confirmation statements, director appointments and PSC updates. Addition will let you know where and when it needs to be used.
What happens if I manage multiple companies?
You only verify your identity once, but you must supply your personal code for each directorship. Addition can track these deadlines for you and ensure every company remains compliant.
Why use Addition instead of doing it myself?
Verification can feel complex, especially if you have older documents, multiple roles or limited time. As an ACSP, Addition manages the process for you, checks everything is correct and ensures you meet your deadlines without stress.
How do I start the verification process with Addition?
Simply complete the request form and our team will contact you, confirm your documents and begin the verification process on your behalf.
