Author: Phillips & Co Accountants, Chester
Date: 08 October, 2025
From 18 November 2025, Companies House will begin mandatory identity verification for all company directors and people with significant control (PSCs). The change is part of the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023 and will roll out with a 12-month transition period.
This guide explains who must verify, how it works, what to file, and common pitfalls — so your next confirmation statement isn’t held up.
Who must verify (and when)
Directors (existing): Verify once. From 18 Nov 2025, you must include your personal code on your next confirmation statement. Without every director’s code, the CS01 can’t be filed.
Directors (new after 18 Nov 2025): Verify during appointment or incorporation.
PSCs: Verify once, then provide your code via a separate online service. Each PSC has a 14-day window (timing depends on whether you were already registered and whether you’re also a director).
LLP members: ID verification also applies from 18 Nov 2025. (Other roles like corporate directors/LPs will follow later.)
Changes to UK company law
Transition: 18 Nov 2025 starts a 12-month period to get everyone verified and the first filings done under the new rules. Don’t leave it to the last minute.
How to verify (two routes)
Direct with Companies House via GOV.UK One Login (free). You’ll use photo ID (passport or driving licence) to confirm who you are and then receive a personal code.
Through an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP) — for example, your accountant acting as an authorised agent. You still end up with a personal code to use on filings.
Important: From 13 Oct 2025, access to WebFiling moves to GOV.UK One Login. Make sure you can sign in before the November changes.
What you’ll file (and where the code goes)
Confirmation statement (CS01): From 18 Nov 2025, the CS01 must include the personal code for every individual director. If one is missing, the statement won’t submit.
PSC code submission: PSCs provide the same personal code via a separate online service, typically within 14 days of the confirmation statement date. (Directors who are also PSCs verify once but provide the code for each role.)
GOV.UK
Simple prep checklist (what to do now)
Create/confirm your GOV.UK One Login (use your own email, not shared).
Have ID ready: a valid passport or driving licence.
Match your data: ensure date of birth and other personal details on Companies House match your ID, otherwise your code won’t link to your role.
Keep the code secure: store it safely; share only with someone filing on your behalf (e.g., your accountant).
Map your deadlines: note your confirmation statement due date and any PSC 14-day window.
Common questions we’re asked
Do we both need to verify?
If you’re both directors, yes. Each person verifies once and gets their own code, used on the CS01 after 18 Nov 2025.
GOV.UK
I’m a director and a PSC — do I verify twice?
No — verify once, then use the same code: on the CS01 (director) and via the PSC service (within 14 days of CS01 date).
Can we ignore this until our next year end?
No — it’s tied to your confirmation statement cycle and PSC window, not your accounts year end. Start early to avoid holds.
Can my accountant do it?
You can verify yourself or use an ACSP. If your accountant verifies you, you’ll still get a personal code to keep on record
What if we don’t verify?
You risk being unable to file, plus potential penalties. The aim is better data and less fraud — Companies House will reject filings that lack codes.
Pitfalls to avoid
Shared emails: One Login requires a unique personal email per person. Don’t use shared mailboxes.
Data mismatches: If CH records (e.g., DOB) don’t match your ID, the code won’t link — update records first.
Leaving it late: Expect higher traffic near deadlines; overseas directors may need extra time. Verify early.
MoneyWeek
Key dates to remember
13 Oct 2025: WebFiling → GOV.UK One Login
18 Nov 2025: Identity verification begins for directors and PSCs with a 12-month transition.
After 18 Nov 2025: Next CS01 must include all directors’ codes; PSCs provide codes via the separate service in their 14-day window.
Bottom line from Accountants Chester
Verify once, get your code, and keep it safe. Directors will quote it on the next confirmation statement; PSCs will submit it via their own service. Sort GOV.UK One Login and ID now so your filings stay on track.
Call/WhatsApp today on: 01244 220 062
If you’d like expert guidance, contact Phillips & Co Accountants Chester today.
Keep More, Stress Less
Disclaimer
The information contained in this blog is for general guidance only. It does not constitute professional advice and should not be relied upon as such. Always seek tailored advice from a qualified accountant regarding your specific circumstances.