Companies House introduces a new identity verification process
Companies House has introduced a new identity verification process to stop people setting up companies illegally. Now, anyone who wants to set-up, run, own or control a company in the UK must prove who they are.
This new legal requirement is designed to reduce the risk of fraud and to improve transparency and the accuracy of information on the Companies House register. From 18th Nov 2025, your company will not be able to file its Confirmation Statement unless all directors have verified their identity.
What is identity verification?
Identity verification is a process to confirm that individuals holding key roles within UK companies are who they claim to be. Verification is intended to be a one-time requirement. It will be an offence if you fail to comply with the requirements.
Does this impact me?
Anyone incorporating, running, controlling or owning a company in the UK will need to verify their identity.
You will be legally required to verify if you are a:
- Director (new or existing) of a UK company;
- Member of a Limited Liability Partnership (LLP) (including general partner and individual managing officers of general partners who are legal entities);
- Person with significant control (“PSC”) (new or existing)
- Relevant Officer of a registerable relevant legal entity (“RRLE”) (i.e. a qualifying company that would be a PSC if it were an individual);
- Authorised Corporate Service Provider (“ACSP”); or
- Individual who makes filings on behalf of a company either on their own or another’s behalf (e.g. a company secretary) (unless they are an officer or employee of an ACSP).
How do I verify my identity?
Here’s a video from Companies House to explain the two methods of verification:
To break it down-there are 2 methods for the ID verification, you can either:
A. Do it yourself for free – This article will guide you through the process of verifying your identity online.
B. Use an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP) – Jermyn & Co is an ACSP for Companies House ID verification. We charge lower than the market average rate. Please contact office@jermyn.co.uk if you want us to handle this for you.
A. Ways to Verify by yourself:
We will cover the Online method in detail below, but there are 2 ways to complete verification by yourself:
- Online – Uses the GOV.UK One Login app and is free of charge
- Post Office – You may be able to verify in person at your local post office, you can learn more about verifying at the Post Office by clicking here.
Verify online – step-by-step guide
Using the online method, we found it easiest to complete the full process using a smartphone rather than jumping between a computer and a phone.
Step 1: Go to the page by clicking here. If you’re currently reading this on a computer, you can use your phone to scan the QR code below to navigate to the same page.
Step 2: Scrolling down, this page lists what you’ll need, at the bottom click Verify your identity.
Step 3: Click Create your GOV.UK One Login, then click Go to GOV.UK One Login.
Step 4: You MUST enter the email address associated with your Companies House account. Then Continue.
Step 5: Input the 6 digit security code sent to your email and Continue.
Step 6: Create your password and Continue. After this, you’ll need to set up 2 factor authentication via your mobile number or Authenticator app.
Step 7: Once you’ve created your GOV.UK One Login, you’re ready to start ID verification. Click Open GOV.UK ID Check and follow the instructions.
IMPORTANT: When you come to this page below, keep this page open or bookmarked as you need to come back to it, then click Download GOV.UK ID Check app.
Once downloaded, return to the above page and click Link GOV.UK ID Check. Then follow the instructions to complete the ID check.
B. Verification via Jermyn & Co
Jermyn & Co is a registered ACSP and can demonstrate your identity is verified to the standard required under the legislation.
To initiate the process, please email office@jermyn.co.uk with the following information:
- Name(s) of the company the identity verification relates to
- For each individual to be verified:
- Full legal name
- Date of birth
- Country of residence
- Email address
- Current residential address*
*Please note: Non-UK residents must also provide proof of address dated within the last 3 months.
After verification is completed, Companies House will issue an unique verification code by email, which should be retained for future reference.
You’ll need this code:
- when you file your confirmation statement;
- when you become a director;
- if you become a person with significant control (PSC).
If you’re already a director or PSC, the personal code connects your verified identity across Companies House records. This confirms your identity and links to any roles you hold.
Last words
For those wanting a DIY route, we hope his guide helps you succesfully verify. Email office@jermyn.co.uk if you want us to handle it for you.
Jermyn & Co recommends verifying early to avoid issues in the future.
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