UK company identity verification is becoming a legal requirement under new legislation set to take effect in 2025. This change, introduced through the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023, represents the UK government’s most significant reform of corporate law in over a century.

At AG Accounting Solutions LTD, we are committed to helping businesses navigate this transformation. Whether you’re a company director, a People with Significant Control (PSC), or a company secretary, it’s essential that you understand and comply with the new identity verification rules.

What Is UK Company Identity Verification?

UK company identity verification is a new legal requirement mandating that certain individuals connected to UK companies must verify their identity with Companies House. This includes:

• Company directors
• People with Significant Control (PSCs)
• Anyone filing information on behalf of a company
• Members of Limited Liability Partnerships (LLPs)

The purpose is to improve the accuracy and trustworthiness of the Companies House register and to help combat fraudulent activity, money laundering, and shell companies.

This process will be enforced and monitored by Companies House, the UK’s registrar of companies.

Why Is Identity Verification Being Introduced?

The UK government is taking a strong stance against economic crime and corporate abuse. The main objectives of UK company identity verification are:

• To improve transparency in company ownership and management
• To increase the reliability of data held at Companies House
• To prevent criminals from hiding behind opaque corporate structures
• To reduce the misuse of UK companies for money laundering and other financial crimes

When Will Identity Verification Be Required?

Identity verification will be introduced in phases throughout 2025:

From 8 April 2025:

• Individuals will be able to voluntarily verify their identity using the GOV.UK One Login system or through authorised third-party providers.

Later in 2025 (Exact Date TBC):

• Identity verification will become mandatory for new and existing:
  • Company directors
  • PSCs
  • LLP members
  • Anyone filing documents with Companies House

Failure to verify your identity may result in significant consequences, including being unable to form a company or submit statutory filings.

How Will UK Company Identity Verification Work?

There will be two primary ways to complete your identity verification:

1. Via GOV.UK One Login

The government is introducing a secure digital login system that enables users to verify their identity online. This process will require submission of ID documents, such as a valid passport or driver’s licence, and may include facial recognition or biometric checks.

2. Through an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP)

Firms like AG Accounting Solutions LTD will be able to register as an ACSP with Companies House starting from March 2025. As authorised providers, ACSPs will be able to carry out identity verification on behalf of their clients, with applicable fees for the service.

This option is ideal for businesses that:

• Prefer to outsource compliance
• Need expert support to avoid errors
• Want a faster and more convenient process

How AG Accounting Solutions LTD Can Help

At AG Accounting Solutions LTD, we are proud to be an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP) under the new identity verification regime. Our goal is to make compliance simple, efficient, and stress-free for our clients.

Here’s how we support your business with UK company identity verification:

✅ End-to-End Verification Services

We handle the full verification process on your behalf, including documentation checks, submission, and Companies House reporting.

✅ Document Guidance

We assist with collecting and reviewing your identity documents to ensure they meet verification standards, reducing the chance of rejection.

✅ Compliance Monitoring

We keep you informed of upcoming deadlines and changes, so you stay compliant and avoid penalties.

✅ Ongoing Company Support

Whether you’re forming a new company or maintaining an existing one, we provide full compliance support, from identity verification to filings and registered office services.

Who Needs to Act?

If you fall into any of the categories below, UK company identity verification will likely affect you:

• You are a director of a limited company
• You are a shareholder with significant control (PSC)
• You are an accountant, solicitor, or other professional submitting filings on behalf of clients
• You are a designated member of an LLP

Even if you’ve been operating for years, these new laws will require action on your part. Don’t wait until it’s compulsory—start preparing now.

What Happens If You Don’t Comply?

Non-compliance with the identity verification rules can result in:

• Inability to form new companies
• Rejection of company filings
• Fines or sanctions from Companies House
• Criminal prosecution in serious cases

Avoiding these risks is as simple as verifying your identity on time. Let us help you do it right.

How to Get Started with Identity Verification

Starting early is key. From April 2025, voluntary identity verification will be available. We strongly recommend using this early window to:

• Ensure your records are accurate
• Verify all directors and PSCs
• Avoid the rush when verification becomes mandatory later in the year

Why Choose AG Accounting Solutions LTD?

• Experienced Professionals: We’re a trusted accounting and compliance partner.
• Registered ACSP: Authorised to handle identity verification directly with Companies House.
• All-in-One Services: From registering business to tax filling, we provide a full suite of business support.
• Local, Personalised Support: We tailor our services to your business’s unique needs.

Contact Us Today

Don’t wait until it’s mandatory. Start preparing for UK company identity verification now with expert support from AG Accounting Solutions LTD.

📞 Call us: 01753 316048
📧 Email us: info@ag-accounting.co.uk
🌐 Visit us: www.ag-accounting.co.uk