What is Companies House identity verification?
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Identity verification is a new legal requirement under the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023. All company directors and PSCs must prove their identity to Companies House to prevent fraud and criminal misuse of UK companies. You'll receive a unique Companies House personal code once verified.
Who needs to verify their identity with Companies House?
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You must verify if you are:
- A company director
- A Person with significant control (PSC)
- A company secretary who files documents
- An equivalent officer (members, general partners, managing officers)
- An authorised corporate service provider (ACSP)
In most cases, you only verify once – you must not verify again unless Companies House instructs you to.
When is the deadline for Companies House ID verification?
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The requirement comes into force on 18 November 2025. Your specific deadline depends on your role and when you were appointed. Check the Companies House register from 18 November 2025 to see your personal due date for each role you hold.
What happens if I don't verify my identity by the deadline?
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If you fail to verify:
- You cannot file confirmation statements (they'll be rejected)
- You commit a criminal offence by continuing to act as a director
- You face potential disqualification as a director
- Your company commits an offence and faces financial penalties
- You cannot incorporate new companies or make any Companies House filings
How much does Companies House ID verification cost?
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DIY verification through GOV.UK One Login is free but requires navigating government systems, potentially visiting a post office, and handling complex security questions.
Mint Formations charges £19+VAT per person to handle the entire verification process as your authorised agent, saving you time and ensuring compliance.
What documents do I need to verify my identity?
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You'll need documents from Companies House's approved list, including:
- Valid passport or UK driving licence (photo ID)
- Proof of address (utility bill, bank statement, council tax bill)
- Additional documents may be required for AML compliance
Mint Formations will guide you on exactly which documents to provide based on your circumstances.
What is a Companies House personal code?
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Your Companies House personal code is a unique identifier issued after successful identity verification. You must include this code in your confirmation statement filings from 18 November 2025. The code is personal to you (not your company) and should only be shared with trusted people who file on your behalf.
What is an authorised corporate service provider (ACSP)?
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An ACSP (also called a Companies House authorised agent) is registered with Companies House and a UK anti-money laundering (AML) supervisory body. ACSPs can verify identity on your behalf. Mint Formations is a registered ACSP, which means we're legally qualified to complete your verification.
How long does the verification process take?
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With Mint Formations: Most verifications are completed within 48 hours of receiving your documents, though Companies House processing times may vary.
DIY with GOV.UK one login: Timing varies and depends on which method you're assigned – security questions, multiple document uploads, or Post Office visits. The system requires precise document formats, may reject submissions for minor errors, and often requires multiple attempts before successful verification.
Can I verify my identity if I live outside the UK?
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Yes. You can use an ACSP like Mint Formations to verify your identity from any country. We handle international directors regularly and can process your verification remotely.
Do I need to verify again if I'm a director of multiple companies?
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No. You only verify your identity once, and you receive one Companies House personal code. However, you must provide this code separately for each company role you hold (in confirmation statements or PSC notifications).
What if my confirmation statement is due before I verify?
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You should verify your identity as soon as possible. From 18 November 2025, Companies House will reject confirmation statements that don't include personal codes for all directors. Late filing penalties will apply if you miss your deadline.
Can someone else file my confirmation statement after verification?
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Yes. If your accountant, company secretary, or Mint Formations files your confirmation statement, you must share your Companies House personal code with them. Only share your code with trusted people - treat it like your HMRC unique taxpayer reference (UTR).
Is my personal data secure when verifying with Mint Formations?
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Yes. We use encrypted portals for document uploads and comply with UK GDPR regulations. As a registered ACSP, we follow strict data protection and Anti-Money Laundering standards. Your documents are handled securely and deleted after verification is complete.
