The way we form and run companies in the UK is upgrading. New steps are being implemented before forming a company. Under the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023, Companies House is introducing stricter identity verification for company directors, people with significant control (PSCs), and certain agents.
The aim is straightforward: prevent fraudulent appointments, improve transparency, and stop criminals from hiding behind anonymous companies. For anyone involved in UK company administration, this means a new, unavoidable step of identity verification.
Key Dates
The Free Option: Direct Verification with Companies House
You don’t have to pay to verify. Companies House offers free verification through the GOV.UK One Login system. The self-verification route is for people who want to manage the process themselves without going through an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP).
Step-by-Step: Free Verification Process
Step 1 - Sign up or Create a GOV.UK One Login Account
You will require a GOV.UK One Login in order to use Companies House services. You can register for one if you do not have one at www.gov.uk/one-login by providing an email address, password, and two-factor authentication method.
Step 2 - Select the Companies House Identity Verification Service
Step 3 - Choose a Verification Method
GOV.UK One Login offers three main options:
- App-based biometric scan using the GOV.UK ID Check app to scan your ID and face
- Security questions based on your UK credit file (for those without compatible devices)
- Post Office in-person verification for those unable to verify digitally at a post office
Step 4 - Provide an Approved Identity Document
Accepted documents include:
- A valid UK passport
- A UK driving licence (full or provisional)
- An EU/EEA passport or ID card (for non-UK residents)
- Other approved ID types listed on gov.uk
Step 5 - Perform the Liveness or Security Check
- App users will record a short selfie video for facial recognition
- Security question users will answer questions about their personal financial history
- Post Office users will present ID in person
Step 6 - Receive Your Personal Code from Companies House
Once verified, you’ll get a unique personal code at your email address used to sign in to the UK Gov. one login. You must use it for future company filings and appointments so Companies House can link your identity to your company role.
Why the Free Option Looks Good (On Paper)
It’s easy to see why this method attracts interest:
- No Charges – Avoid the fees that ACSPs charge.
- Direct Government Route – Your details go straight to Companies House.
- Completely Online (For Most) – No need to post documents unless the digital route fails.
For those who are experienced in tech, have a valid ID, and aren’t working to a tight deadline, it’s a convenient option.
Perils of the Free Option
While it’s appealing, there are pitfalls to be aware of:
1. Limited Support if Problems Arise
2. Technical and Compatibility Issues
Common user reports include:
- Camera access problems in some browsers
- Difficulty uploading documents
- Biometric checks failing despite clear images
If you’re not confident with tech, these can be time-consuming to resolve.
3. Potential Delays
4. No Broader Compliance Assistance
- Reviewing your company registers to ensure that all the directors comply with
- Filing compliance documents for you
- Liaising with Companies House, if any problems arise during the verification
How ACSP Verification Works
An Authorised Corporate Service Provider is an authorised agent with a unique agent number who is approved by Companies House to verify identities.
Benefits include:
Costs are modest, typically starting from £40, and for many, the reduced stress is worth it.
Legal Consequences of Not Verifying
From November 2025, failing to verify when required may lead to:
These consequences make it important to complete verification promptly during the transition period.
Who Should Use the Free Method?
It may suit you if:
Who Should Use an ACSP Instead?
Consider paying for ACSP verification if:
Final Thoughts
Free identity verification via GOV.UK One Login is a simple but not an assured option. It's best for tech-savvy clients with simple ID and no pressure of deadlines. But if there are complex cases, there are deadlines to be met, or there is an imperative for human contact, availing an ACSP is the safer bet. For just a simple charge of £40 or less, it is a small price to pay for the risk of delays or refusal.
FAQs
From 18 November 2025, all new directors and PSCs must verify before appointment. Existing ones have 12 months to comply.
Yes — via security questions or Post Office in-person verification.
It links your verified identity to your company roles in the Companies House system and is required for filings and appointments.
You may be unable to act as a director, your filings may be rejected, and you could commit an offence.
Need Help?
Ensure your verification is smooth and secure. Explore the best Companies House ID options today.
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