As a small business owner in the UK, it is important to stay updated on the latest regulations and requirements set by the government. One such requirement is the need to verify your identity with Companies House as a director or a person with significant control (PSC). This verification process is mandatory and failure to comply can result in serious consequences for your business. In this article, we will discuss the steps you need to take to verify your identity with Companies House before the deadline of November 18, 2025.
What is Companies House?
Companies House is the official government register for UK companies. It is responsible for maintaining and updating information on all registered companies in the UK. This includes details such as company name, address, directors, and shareholders. Companies House also plays a crucial role in regulating and monitoring the activities of UK companies to ensure compliance with laws and regulations.
Why do you need to verify your identity with Companies House?
The UK government has implemented a new regulation that requires all directors and PSCs of UK companies to verify their identity with Companies House. This is a part of the government’s efforts to combat money laundering and terrorist financing. By verifying your identity, Companies House will have accurate and up-to-date information on the individuals who are running UK companies, making it easier to identify any suspicious activities.
How to verify your identity with Companies House?
The process of verifying your identity with Companies House is simple and can be done online. Here are the steps you need to follow:
Step 1: Register for an online account
If you do not already have an online account with Companies House, you will need to register for one. This can be done on the Companies House website by providing your personal details and creating a password.
Step 2: Access the verification service
Once you have registered for an online account, you can access the verification service by logging in and selecting the “Verify your identity” option. This will take you to the verification page where you will need to enter your personal details, including your name, date of birth, and national insurance number.
Step 3: Upload your identity documents
To verify your identity, you will need to upload two types of documents – a photo ID and a proof of address. Acceptable forms of photo ID include a passport, driving license, or national identity card. For proof of address, you can use a recent utility bill, bank statement, or council tax bill. Make sure the documents are clear and legible before uploading them.
Step 4: Complete the verification process
Once you have uploaded your documents, you will be asked to confirm that the information provided is accurate. You will also need to declare that you are the person you claim to be and that you are authorized to verify your identity on behalf of the company. Once you have completed these steps, your identity will be verified by Companies House.
What happens if you fail to verify your identity?
The deadline for verifying your identity with Companies House is November 18, 2025. Failure to comply with this requirement can result in serious consequences for your business. Companies House has the power to impose fines, disqualify directors, and even strike off companies from the register if they fail to comply with this regulation. It is important to note that even if you have previously provided your identity documents to Companies House, you will still need to go through the verification process.
In conclusion, verifying your identity with Companies House is a crucial step that all directors and PSCs of UK companies need to take before the deadline of November 18, 2025. This process can be easily completed online and ensures that Companies House has accurate and up-to-date information on the individuals running UK companies. Failure to comply with this requirement can result in serious consequences for your business, so it is important to take action now and complete the verification process. Stay updated with the latest regulations and requirements to ensure the success and compliance of your small business in the UK.
