Identity verification for Directors – What you need to know

zelrodgers
Oct 30
2 min read

Important guidance for CICs and charitable businesses on upcoming Companies House identity checks

If you are a Director of a Community Interest Company (CIC) or another type of charitable business, it is important to be aware of new legal requirements coming into force from 18th November 2025.

From this date, identity verification will become a legal requirement for all company directors. This change is part of wider reforms introduced by Companies House to improve corporate transparency and prevent fraud.

Who Needs to Verify and When

Existing Directors must verify their identity before filing the first annual confirmation statement that falls after 18th November 2025.
New Directors of existing companies must verify their identity within 14 days of appointment.
Directors of newly formed companies must verify their identity before the company can be incorporated.

These requirements are mandatory and apply to all company directors, including those of CICs, charities with company status and other incorporated social enterprises.

How to Get Verified

There are several ways to complete your identity verification:

1. Using GOV.UK One Login

The easiest way is to use the GOV.UK One Login service.

Go to Verify your identity for Companies House.
Sign in with your GOV.UK One Login and download the GOV.UK One Login app.
Follow the instructions to scan your ID and your face.

This process is similar to digital identity checks used for visa or passport applications.

2. Verification at a Post Office

If you cannot scan your ID documents, you can enter your ID details online through GOV.UK One Login and then complete the process at a participating Post Office.

On Wirral, the following Post Offices currently provide this service:

Birkenhead: 2 Princess Pavement, Grange Precinct, CH41 2XY
New Ferry: 39 New Chester Road, CH62 1AA
Wallasey: 12 Liscard Village, CH45 4JW

3. Knowledge-Based Verification

If you do not have photo ID, you may still be able to verify your identity by answering knowledge-based questions related to your credit record. Alternatively, you can use details from your UK bank account or HMRC tax records.

You can find more detailed guidance on the GOV.UK website.

4. Using an Authorised Corporate Service Provider

If you prefer, an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP), such as an accountant or solicitor, can verify your identity on your behalf. Please note that they may charge a fee for this service.

What Happens Next

Once your identity has been verified, you will be issued with a unique personal code. This code should be stored securely, as you will need it whenever you file documents with Companies House, such as your confirmation statement or when confirming your role as a director.

It is also important to ensure that all Directors and Persons with Significant Control (PSCs) have up-to-date and accurate details on record with Companies House.

If you require any more support concerning the upcoming changes to identity verification, please feel free to discuss your concerns with us by e-mailing via the button below: