New reforms at Companies House mean that the 7.5 million or so of registered UK Company Directors and Persons of Significant Control [PSCs] will need to carry out a formal ID verification process, either directly or through Authorised Corp Service Providers [ACSPs]. This is all part of the Government’s desire to deal with illegal activities conducted through registered companies and improving transparency.
From 8 April 2025, a voluntary ID checking process has begun, and it is expected that in the Autumn of 2025 it will become a mandatory requirement for all Directors and PSC’s as well as those acting on behalf of a company and members of LLPs. From Spring 2026 companies will not be able to file documents, such as accounts, without having first registered their ID details.
UK individuals can verify themselves directly with Companies House by going through GOV.UK One Login. They will then receive a unique code which they can use to verify all their Companies House appointments. What is not so clear at the moment is how an overseas Director or PSC can verify themselves as the One Login route is only available to UK citizens.
Alternatively, individuals can approach an ACSP to carry out the verification process on their behalf. ACSPs also have to go through a registration process and must be a member of a professional body that is a supervised under the Anti-Money Laundering legislation requirements, such as accountants or lawyers. However, ACSPs will still have to carry out the same level of checks of your ID as you would have to provide directly. An ACSP will also be able to file documents on a company’s behalf once the ID verification process has been completed.
We will keep you informed as the dates for mandatory implementation are announced and as the details of the checking and registration process become clearer. However, please go to GOV.UK One Login if you wish to start the process early.
For more information please contact your usual B&B team member or contact us through our chat facility on www.burgisbullock.com | 0345 177 5500