TWP Accounting, a Weybridge-based firm, is sending a reminder to all directors and People with Significant Control (PSCs) to take immediate action as Companies House prepares to introduce mandatory identity verification from 18 November 2025.

Mitchell Noyes, Senior Client Manager at TWP, explains that failing to verify ahead of the deadline risks delays to filings and potential penalties.

“Companies House has introduced the new identity verification process in an attempt to improve corporate transparency and reduce the risk of fraud. If the regime works as planned, I imagine it will be a great step forward.

“However, I am concerned that only around 300,000 people have voluntarily verified their identity so far. That is just a small fraction of the estimated seven million directors and PSCs who will need to complete the process next month.

“I would encourage businesses to act now to avoid unnecessary disruption and ensure compliance before the November deadline.”

From 18 November 2025, all new directors will need to verify their identity before incorporating a company or being appointed to an existing one.

Existing directors will have 12 months to complete the process, usually aligned with their next annual confirmation statement filing. PSCs will also have a 12-month window, though deadlines vary depending on circumstances.

“Failing to verify your identity on time can lead to serious administrative delays and, in some cases, legal consequences.

“If you haven’t already, I recommend setting some time aside in the next few weeks to identify who in your business needs to be verified and decide whether you will complete the process yourselves or have a trusted adviser to do it on their behalf.”

Verification can be completed via the Government’s One Login service or through an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP) such as accountants or solicitors.

Once verified, directors and PSCs receive a unique code, which will be required for all future company filings.

“I want to be clear that without the verification codes for the relevant people in the business, we will not be able to submit any company filings for that client.

“That said, many will be relieved to know that the verification process only needs to be completed once, and the same code can be used across all your directorships. It won’t become another annual administrative task to add to your growing list,” concluded Mitchell.