🆔 New Companies House ID Rules for Limited Company Directors
From 8 April 2025, Companies House has started introducing identity verification for those involved in UK limited companies. If you're a company director, a person with significant control (PSC), or someone who files documents, you'll soon be legally required to prove your identity.
At Harish Accountants, we're ready to guide you through these new requirements and can handle the ID verification process on your behalf.
📣 What's Changing?
As part of new legislation under the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act, Companies House is introducing identity checks to help prevent fraud and improve trust in UK companies.
These changes apply only to limited companies — not sole traders or partnerships — and will become mandatory in stages from autumn 2025.
❗ Who Needs to Verify Their ID?
- Company Director
- Person with Significant Control (PSC)
- Company Secretary or anyone who files documents with Companies House
Even if your company is dormant, verification will still be required.
🧾 How Will ID Be Verified?
- Option 1: Verify Online Yourself
You can complete identity checks directly through Companies House using GOV.UK One Login and uploading a UK passport, driving licence, or biometric residence permit. This service is free and secure. - Option 2: Let Harish Accountants Handle It
As authorised agents, Harish Accountants will be able to complete identity verification for you — saving you time and giving you peace of mind.
If we already act for you, this can often be done smoothly using documents we hold for existing compliance purposes.
📅 When Do the New Rules Start?
| Requirement | Expected Date |
|---|---|
| Voluntary ID verification opens | 8 April 2025 |
| Mandatory for new directors/PSCs | Autumn 2025 |
| Existing directors/PSCs must comply by | Autumn 2026 |
| All filers (e.g. secretaries, agents) | By Spring 2026 |
Failure to verify may result in inability to file documents, blocked appointments, or possible penalties.
🛡️ How Harish Accountants Will Help
- Let you know if and when you need to verify
- Complete the verification for you where permitted
- Ensure all Companies House filings are up-to-date and compliant
- Take care of the admin so you don't have to worry
📞 Questions? Need Help?
We're here to help you stay compliant without the stress. If you're a limited company director, PSC, or someone who files with Companies House — speak to us today.
Email: info@htltd.co.uk Phone: 01933 273910
We'll explain exactly what you need to do and take care of it for you.
