A new service has been launched that allows individuals to verify their identity directly with Companies House through GOV.UK.
The introduction of identity verification is one of the key changes to company law as part of the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023. Companies House has landmark new and enhanced powers to combat economic crime and boost economic growth.
More than six million people will be required to comply in the 12 months after identity verification becomes a legal requirement later this year. According to Companies House, identity verification will provide more assurance about who is setting up, running, owning and controlling companies in the UK.
Louise Smyth, CEO of Companies House, said: ‘Identity verification will play a key role in improving the quality and reliability of our data and tackling misuse of the companies register.
‘To save time later, we encourage directors, people with significant control of companies (PSCs) and those filing information with Companies House to verify their identity during the voluntary window.
‘We expect identity verification to become mandatory from Autumn 2025.’
17/04/2025
View all >
15/10/2026
Six months until next phase of Making Tax Digital rollout
HMRC expects that more than 1m taxpayers will be required to use digital recordkeeping and send quarterly updates to HMRC when the second phase of MTD for Income Tax is extended from 6.4.27.
READ MORE
Applications open for scheme to cut electricity bills for manufacturers
Applications opened on 1 October 2026 for the British Industrial Competitiveness Scheme (BICS) as part of a government project to cut costs for businesses.
Responses to Shadow Chancellor's party conference speech
On 5 October, Shadow Chancellor, Andrew Griffith, delivered his speech to the Conservative Party conference.
Sign up to keep in touch to receive our latest news and industry updates.
* *
Yes, I would like to receive email updates providing me with the latest finance news, advice guides and details of future events.