Important Update for All Directors & PSCs

Dan Chapman
Oct 7
3 min read

Updated: 2 days ago

Be Ready for Companies House Identity Verification

If your business is registered in the UK, there’s a major change coming from Companies House. Starting 18 November 2025, every company director and person with significant control (PSC) must verify their identity.

At McCorrie Payroll, we believe in keeping our clients informed and prepared. Let’s walk through what this change means for you—and how to log in and get this done quickly and correctly.

Why This Matters to You and Your Business

After 18 November 2025, you will not be able to file a confirmation statement unless all directors have verified their identity.
When you do file, each director’s personal code must be included. Missing or incorrect codes will lead to a rejected filing.
Continuing to act as a director without verification becomes an offence, and your company may also face penalty or enforcement action.

In short: this isn’t optional. For smooth compliance, you need to act.

The Identity Verification Process: Two Clear Steps

1. Verify Your Identity and Get Your Personal Code

2. Use That Code for Each Role You Hold

Once you’ve gone through verification, you won’t need to repeat it — but you will need the personal code to confirm every role (e.g. if you’re a director of more than one company).

How to Log In & Verify with Companies House

You have two routes to complete verification. Choose whichever suits you best:

Option A: Via GOV.UK One Login (Recommended for Most Directors)

Go to the “Verify your identity for Companies House” service (via GOV.UK).
Sign in with your GOV.UK One Login.
- If you don’t yet have one, you’ll be prompted to create an account.
Answer a few simple questions. The system will guide you to the best method based on your device, ID type, etc.
You’ll generally need a photo ID (passport, driving licence, or national ID). In many cases, facial recognition or a live selfie may be required to match your ID.
Once verified, you’re given your Companies House personal code.

This process usually takes just a few minutes. Save the code securely.

Option B: Through an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP)

If you prefer not to do it yourself, you can delegate verification to an ACSP—such as your accountant, solicitor, or formation agent.

You’ll provide them with approved identity documents (passport, utility bill, etc.).
They'll check and verify on your behalf, then supply you with your personal code.
Note: They may charge a fee for this service.

What You Must Do When It’s Time to File Your Confirmation Statement

From 18 November 2025 onwards:

You cannot file your confirmation statement unless every director has verified identity.
Each director’s personal code must be included in the filing.
If someone else (e.g. your agent or accountant) files it on your behalf, you must share your personal code with them (securely and responsibly).

Missing codes or unverified directors = rejection of your filing.

What Happens If You Don’t Comply?

Directors acting without verifying will be committing an offence.
Companies that fail to file properly or include codes may face penalties, enforcement, or prosecution.
It undermines your compliance, your reputation, and may lead to serious legal consequences.

How McCorrie Payroll Can Help You Stay Compliant

As your payroll and compliance partner, here’s how we can support you:

Alert – We’ll remind you of your verification due dates.
Explain – We can walk you (or your directors) through the GOV.UK One Login path step by step.
Secure Coordination – If you use a third party (agent or accountant) to file on your behalf, we’ll ensure the correct procedures for code sharing are understood.
Checklist Support – Provide you with a simple checklist of what to have ready (photo ID, proof of address, etc.).

Final Word: Act Ahead of Time

Do not wait until the last few days before your deadline. Complete your verification as soon as your due date appears on the Companies House register (from 18 November 2025). That way, when it’s time to file, you’ll be ready — and avoid any last-minute stress or rejection.