The UK is in the middle of the biggest overhaul of Companies House compliance in generations. Under reforms introduced through the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act, identity verification is now a legal requirement for anyone involved in running, owning, or controlling UK companies.
For many businesses, the challenge is not just what the rules say but how to complete ID verification efficiently, correctly, and without disrupting day-to-day operations. That’s when using an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP) can make a real difference.
What has Changed?
From the 18th of November 2025, Companies House identity verification has been a legal requirement, with a 12-month transition period for businesses to ensure their directors and People with Significant Control (PSCs) have verified by their relevant due dates.
Companies House has confirmed that from this point:
- New directors need to verify their identity to incorporate a company or be appointed to an existing one.
- Existing directors will confirm verification when filing their next annual confirmation statement, within the transition period.
- Existing PSCs need to verify within an appointed timeframe, and PSCs typically have a 14-day window to provide their personal code and verification statement when required.
Failing to comply can trigger enforcement action, including financial penalties.
What is Companies House identity verification?
In simple terms, identity verification is Companies House’s way of ensuring that the people behind a company are who they claim to be, helping reduce fraud, impersonation, and misuse of corporate structures.
Once verified, an individual receives a Companies House personal code. This code is then used for key filings and appointments. Importantly, without this personal code you will not be able to be registered as a director, or the company file its confirmation statement.
How can you verify?
There are two main routes:
- Direct verification through GOV.UK One Login (free, online, typically completed quickly).
- Verification via an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP) a registered professional firm approved to complete ID checks and make the required submissions to Companies House.
What is an ACSP (and what does it mean for you)?
An ACSP is a firm registered with Companies House to carry out identity verification and where relevant file on behalf of clients.
ACSPs must meet specific requirements, including being registered with an Anti-Money Laundering (AML) supervisory body.
Why businesses are choosing an ACSP route
While many individuals will be able to verify directly, in practice, businesses often prefer an ACSP where they want to:
- Reduce the administration burden and avoid delays when multiple directors/PSCs need verifying at once
- Minimise the risk of incorrect filings which can cause knock-on compliance issues
- Support non-UK based directors/PSCs or complex ownership structures
- Keep the process coordinated and consistent across group companies
- Ensure verification is handled as part of a wider approach to corporate governance and ongoing compliance
How DTM Legal can help as an ACSP
DTM Legal is an Authorised Corporate Service Provider, approved to complete Companies House identity verification on your behalf and certify compliance directly to Companies House.
Our Corporate & Commercial team supports businesses of all sizes, from owner-managed companies to groups with more complex governance needs by providing:
- End-to-end management of the verification process
- Identity checks completed to Companies House standards
- Practical guidance on who needs to verify and when, based on your structure and roles
- Support aligning verification with confirmation statements, appointments and corporate filings
- A straightforward, coordinated process designed to keep disruption to a minimum
- Transparent up-front pricing
Practical next steps for businesses
If you’re planning ahead, these are the actions we recommend:
- Map your roles: list directors and PSCs (including across group companies).
- Check upcoming filing dates: especially your confirmation statement timetable.
- Choose a verification route: direct verification or via an ACSP.
- Get it done early: Companies House has encouraged early verification to reduce bottlenecks.
Speak to our team
If you would like support completing Companies House identity verification, particularly where there are multiple individuals to verify, time pressures, or more complex governance arrangements, DTM Legal can help as your ACSP.
Learn more about our Companies House Identity Verification service or contact our team by emailing corporate@dtmlegal.com.
