Companies House to Introduce Mandatory ID Verification for Directors and PSCs

As part of the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023, Companies House will soon introduce mandatory identity verification for all company directors, People with Significant Control (PSCs), and those filing on behalf of companies.

This is a key measure to improve corporate transparency and combat fraudulent company activity in the UK.

Who Will Be Affected?

• All new and existing company directors;
• PSCs (People with Significant Control);
• Anyone submitting filings to Companies House on behalf of an entity (e.g. agents).

Verification will be required before incorporation (for new companies) or within a set period (for existing officers). Directors must verify their identity either:

• Directly through Companies House, or
• ​Through an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP) such as an accountant or formation agent.

What Should You Do Now?

While implementation dates are pending, businesses should begin reviewing their company structures and ensure:

• All officers and PSCs have valid ID documentation;
• A professional agent (like your accountant) is ready to assist with verification.

At UMC Accountants, we will be offering identity verification through the authorised agent route once the regime goes live. We’ll help ensure your compliance is smooth and on time.

Have questions about how this change may affect your company? Get in touch with us today.