From 18 November, new rules will come into force that will require people who run, own or control companies in the UK to verify their identity – find out what this means for you and what you’ll need to do.
ID verification is currently voluntary but will become mandatory from 18 November for:
- new directors and people with significant control (PSCs)
- existing directors and PSCs
- members of the limited liability partnership
Companies House will later introduce ID verification for:
- people who file at Companies House
- limited partnerships
- corporate directors of companies
- corporate members of LLPs
- officers of corporate PSCs
Why are these rules being introduced?
The UK Government said the legal requirement for ID verification is aimed at deterring people from using companies for illegal purposes. The changes are designed to reduce the risk of fraud and improve the transparency, trust and accuracy of information on the Companies House register.
How do I verify my ID?
There are three ways to verify your ID for Companies House:
1. Online using the GOV.UK One Login service
To use this free service, you’ll need a biometric passport, a UK photo driving licence, a biometric residence card or Frontier Worker permit. You’ll also need to provide your current address – and the year you moved in – and create or sign in to your GOV.UK One Login.
2. Via an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP)
You can ask an ACSP, such as an accountant or solicitor, to verify your identity on your behalf. You’ll need to provide suitable identity documents and the ACSP may charge a fee for their services.
3. At a Post Office
If you cannot use the online service or an ACSP, you can take your ID documents to a Post Office that offers in-branch verification.
What if I don’t verify my ID?
People who do not verify their ID with Companies House will not be able to make any new filings or start a new company. If you do not comply with ID verification requirements, you may be committing an offence and you may have to pay a fine.
If you continue to act as a director without verifying your ID after it becomes a legal requirement, you will be committing an offence and could be disqualified. Your company and any other directors may also be committing an offence.
Where can I find out more?
Companies House has an online guide to the new ID verification requirements.
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