Changes to Companies House filing: What you need to know
Recent changes to UK company law, under the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act (ECCTA), will support Companies House in tackling economic crime and supporting growth.
As part of this, there are changes to filing with Companies House, including the requirement for ID verification. Those impacted by the changes may have already received an email from Companies House with details of the changes being implemented, and the below summarises what you need to know.
Authorised Corporate Service Providers
Under the new legislation, all third party providers (this includes accountants) must register their business as Authorised Corporate Service Providers (ACSP).
This will give Companies House confidence on who is filing on the register and acting on behalf of companies. Azets is registered as an ACSP and therefore able to file on your behalf with Companies House.
ID Verification
Additionally, you may also be required to verify your identity. ID verification is for anyone setting up, running, owning or controlling a company in the UK.
Who needs to verify their identity
You’ll need to verify your identity if you are:
- a director
- the equivalent of a director – this includes members, general partners and managing officers
- a person with significant control (PSC)
- an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP) - also known as a Companies House authorised agent
- someone who files for a company - for example, a company secretary
For new companies, all directors and PSCs will need to complete identity verification. For existing companies, all directors and PSCs will have a year transition period from Autumn 2025 to verify their identity with Companies House.
Identity verification will also apply to other registration types. For example, any members of a Limited Liability Partnership (LLP) will need to verify their identity.
What are the deadlines for ID verification
ID verification will not become mandatory until Autumn/Winter of this year (the exact date is to be confirmed), but the voluntary window has now opened should you wish to verify early and we will be on hand to support and guide you through this process.
ID verification will be required when your annual confirmation statement falls due, starting from Autumn/Winter 2025
ID verification will be required when your annual confirmation statement falls due, starting from Autumn/Winter 2025
Ways to verify your identity
Verification can be completed in one of three ways:
- Using the GOV.UK mobile app - this is the fastest way to verify and the app can be deleted following verification. Guidance on how to download and use the app is available here.
- Online without the mobile app – the individual will need to answer a few questions about themselves to confirm who they are
- In person – this would be done at a Post Office
Personal authentication codes
Following verification, a personal authentication code will be issued to each individual (this code can be used for all appointments that the individual has in various companies, multiple codes will not be required).
We are here to help
If you have any questions in relation to this new legislation, or on how to verify your identity, please get in touch via the form below.
