TL;DR (The Short Version)
Identity verification is proving you are who you say you are. Companies House now requires all company directors and PSCs to verify their identity through an approved service like TaxStats ID.
What is Identity Verification?
The Simple Explanation
Think of it like this:
When you open a bank account, the bank asks to see your passport or driving licence. They're checking that you're really you – not someone pretending to be you.
Companies House now does the same thing for company directors and PSCs (we'll explain what a PSC is in a moment).
Before, anyone could become a director of a UK company without proving who they were. This made it easy for criminals to set up fake companies or hide behind companies to commit fraud.
Now, everyone who runs a company must prove their identity. It's like showing your ID at the door – it keeps everyone safer.
Who Needs to Verify?
Two types of people need to verify their identity:
Directors
A director is someone who runs a company. They make decisions, sign documents, and are legally responsible for the company.
If you're listed as a director at Companies House, you need to verify.
Learn about director verificationPSCs (Persons with Significant Control)
A PSC is someone who owns or controls a company. Usually, this means someone who:
- • Owns more than 25% of the company's shares
- • Has more than 25% of the voting rights
- • Can appoint or remove directors
Many people are BOTH a director AND a PSC.
Learn about PSC verificationWhy Did This Change?
The UK government wanted to make companies more transparent and reduce fraud. The Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act gave Companies House new powers to check who really controls UK companies.
What Happens If I Don't Verify?
Warning: Consequences of Not Verifying
- ✗If you're a director, your company can't file its Confirmation Statement
- ✗Your company could be struck off the register
- ✗You could face fines or prosecution
- ✗You may not be able to act as a director
How Do I Verify?
It's easier than you might think:
Choose a verification service
You can't verify directly with Companies House in most cases. You need to use an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP) like TaxStats ID.
Prove your identity
Show your passport, driving licence, or other accepted ID document. This can be done online in just 5-10 minutes.
Get your Personal Code
After verification, Companies House sends you a unique code. You'll use this code when filing documents.
Common Questions
How much does identity verification cost?
With TaxStats ID, digital verification costs £39. Video call is £49, and in-person is £59.
How long does verification take?
The verification itself takes 5-10 minutes. You'll typically get your Personal Code from Companies House within a few days.
Do I need to verify every year?
No, just once. Your Personal Code stays valid unless your details change significantly.
What if I live abroad?
No problem! Our digital and video call options work anywhere in the world.
Can I verify myself directly with Companies House?
Yes, you can use GOV.UK One Login, but many people find it easier to use an ACSP like TaxStats ID because we guide you through the process.