Why it matters
Currently the UK’s corporate register allows for fictitious or misleading directorships (even to the extreme that name such as Darth Vader or Santa Claus have appeared).
The Corporate Transparency Act aims to;
- Make it harder for impersonators or fraudsters to use fake names or steal corporate identities.
- Improve the data held and its integrity on the public register making it more reliable for investors, customers, creditors and banks.
- Provide enforcement powers to Companies House, enabling them to refuse suspicious filings or issue penalties for noncompliance.
Who Must Verify and When
Directors and PSCs (Individuals) must verify from 18th November 2025
- New directors must verify before their appointment is filed or before incorporation for new companies.
- Existing directors must provide their personal code when they file their next confirmation statement date that falls on or after 18th November 2025.
- PSCs that are also directors will need to verify their ID within 14 days of the confirmation statement being filed.
- PSCs that are not directors will need to verify their ID within 14 days of their birth month.
- If someone holds multiple roles, they will need to meet the verification requirements for each role and per company.
How To Verify Your Identity
There are the following various methods of verification;
- GOV.UK One Login – a digital route using approved identity documents (e.g. passport, driving licence, etc.).
- Via Thompson Wright as an ACSP – this can be either via a Credas link or an in-person meeting (both have a fee included).
- At the post office – start the process online and then take your ID to a participating post office for them to verify your ID.
Once your ID is verified, Companies House will issue you a Personal Code. This code links your verified identity to all roles you hold now or in the future.
Consequences of Non-Compliance
Once the identity verification requirement becomes mandatory;
- An individual acting as a director without verifying their identity may be committing a criminal offence.
- A company that allows an unverified person to act as a director may also be liable.
- PSCs who fail to comply there may be penalties.
- Filings at Companies House may be refused unless identity is verified.
- In extreme cases persistent non-compliance could lead to disqualification or forced removal from directorships.
- Failure to file your confirmation statement with your personal code could result in the company being struck off.
Steps for Companies and Directors Now
- Verify your identity early – even if your confirmation statement isn’t due until June 2026, it is best to verify now and have your personal code ready.
- Inform all your fellow directors and PSCs to get themselves verified as soon as possible.
- Track filing dates for your company on Companies House to make sure you are verified before the filing date.
Should you have any questions or need more information , get in touch with our team.