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 >
30/03/2026
Hundreds of employers handed penalties for illegally underpaying workers
Almost 400 employers from across the UK have been named for failing to pay the minimum wage to tens of thousands of workers, says the government.
READ MORE
HMRC website seeks to close tax knowledge gaps
HMRC has launched a new ‘Tax Confident’ website which it says will help people fill their tax knowledge gaps.
Self-employed gender pay gap is £51 per day
Self-employed women in the UK earn £51 less per day than men on average, according to IPSE, the self-employed association.
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.