From 18 November 2025, important new rules come into effect for all company directors, persons with significant control (PSCs), and anyone who files on behalf of a company. These changes are part of the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023, introduced to make UK companies more transparent and reduce fraud.

If you are a company director, it is vital to understand what these new Companies House reforms mean for you and to take action before the deadlines.

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1. Mandatory Identity Verification for Directors and PSCs

From 18 November 2025, every new director and PSC must have their identity verified before they can be appointed or added to the register.

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Existing directors and PSCs will have 12 months from that date to verify their identity, meaning the final deadline for most existing company officers will be 17 November 2026.

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If you do not verify your identity in time:

• Your company filings may be rejected by Companies House.

• You could face financial penalties or enforcement action.

• You may be legally prohibited from acting as a director until verification is complete.​

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2. How Identity Verification Will Work

There will be two ways to complete verification.

 

Option 1 – Direct verification with Companies House

You will be able to log in via GOV.UK One Login using a valid photo ID such as a UK passport or driving licence. Companies House will confirm your identity and issue you a personal verification code.

 

Option 2 – Verification through an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP)

Accountants, solicitors and company formation agents who are registered under anti-money-laundering regulations can verify your identity on your behalf. Once verified, your unique verification code will stay with you across all companies and future appointments.

Voluntary verification opens on 8 April 2025, giving directors and PSCs the chance to complete the process early.

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3. Key Dates for the New Companies House Rules

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8 April 2025 - Voluntary identity verification opens for directors and PSCs.

18 November 2025 - Identity verification becomes mandatory for new directors and PSCs at incorporation or appointment.

18 November 2025 - 17 November 2026 - Existing directors and PSCs must complete verification within 12 months, typically at the next Confirmation Statement.

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4. Other Important Companies House Reforms

Alongside identity verification, several other changes will affect company directors and business owners.

Stronger checks on company information

Companies House will actively query and reject incorrect or suspicious filings and may remove false information from the register.

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Registered office address rules

Every company must use a real, deliverable postal address, not just a PO Box.

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Lawful purpose statements

From 4 March 2024, all companies must confirm that their activities are lawful when filing new incorporations or Confirmation Statements.

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Software-only filing (from 2027)

Companies House plans to phase out most paper and web-based filings. Directors will need to file accounts and updates through approved commercial accounting software.

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5. What Company Directors Should Do Now

1. Start verifying early – From 8 April 2025, you can verify voluntarily via GOV.UK or through your accountant.

2. Prepare your ID documents – You will need your full name, date of birth, address history and valid photo ID.

3. Keep your personal verification code safe – You will need it every time you file or update company details.

4. Check your registered office address – Make sure it meets the new “appropriate address” requirement.

5. Review company information – Correct any outdated details before stricter checks begin.

6. Ensure your accountant or agent is an ACSP – Only authorised providers can verify directors for Companies House.

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6. Need Help with the New Director Rules?

At Hiclass Accounting, we support company directors with all aspects of Companies House compliance, confirmation statements and identity verification.

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We can help you:

• Verify your identity through an authorised provider

• Check your company records meet the new legal requirements

• File your returns accurately and on time

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Get peace of mind that your company stays compliant with the new Companies House rules.

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📞 Contact Hiclass Accounting today to discuss your next steps or to start the verification process.

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