The dangers of non-compliance with the new Companies House ID verification

From 18 November 2025, identity verification will be mandatory for company directors, members of LLPs and Persons with Significant Control (PSCs).

Companies House will not be prosecuting these individuals for failure to comply for the first 12 months, but from November 2026, there will be severe consequences for non-compliance.

It is imperative that you understand what will happen if you fail to complete your identification verification before the deadline.

What happens if you do not verify your identity with Companies House?

Anyone who should have verified their identity with Companies House but fails to do so will be unable to submit their confirmation statement.

This includes those who are required to submit the statement on or sooner after the 18 November deadline.

Failure to submit this information is considered a criminal offence and persistent non-compliance can lead to directors being fined of up to £5,000, potential director disqualification and Companies House striking the company off the register.

This carries with it, its own unique penalties

Similarly, failing to verify your identity will be in breach of the law and you may be punished accordingly, including director disqualification.

How can I verify my identity with Companies House?

You can use a third-party to verify your identity on your behalf, provided they are an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP), but it is free and simple to do the process yourself.

By using your GOV.UK One Login, you can submit a photo ID, such as a passport, UK photocard driving licence or UK biometric card, to verify your identity.

Once verified, you will be given a unique personal code, so be sure to keep that safe.

As non-compliance has such far-reaching implications, it is vital that you verify your identity before you run out of time.

To find out more about your changing obligations with Companies House filings, and how we can help you, speak to our team today.