Can't Verify Identity at Companies House - What to Do

If you cannot verify your identity with Companies House, there are several steps you can take before your company compliance is affected. Identity verification is now a legal requirement for UK company directors, PSCs and certain other roles.

A failed verification does not necessarily mean you cannot complete the process. You may be able to try again through GOV.UK One Login or use an Authorised Corporate Service Provider.

Why Can't I Verify My Identity?

Companies House identity verification can be unsuccessful for different reasons. Common problems can include:

• Your personal details do not match your records

• Your identity document is not accepted

• Your photo ID is expired

• The document or photograph cannot be read clearly

• Your address information does not match what is required

• There is a problem with the verification process

• You do not have the information needed to complete GOV.UK One Login

Check that your name, date of birth and other personal information are accurate before trying again.

Try GOV.UK One Login Again

If you have the required information and an acceptable identity document, you may be able to try the Companies House verification process again through GOV.UK One Login.

Depending on your circumstances, you may be offered different ways to prove your identity, including using the app, answering security questions or completing the process through the Post Office.

Do not use an expired identity document where it is not permitted.

Use an Authorised Corporate Service Provider

If you continue to have difficulty verifying your identity directly, an Authorised Corporate Service Provider can verify your identity on your behalf.

An ACSP can be an accountant, solicitor or another eligible professional registered with Companies House and supervised for anti-money laundering purposes.

This option can be particularly useful for overseas directors, international business owners and people who cannot complete the standard online verification process.

What If You Are Outside the UK?

You can use an ACSP from outside the UK. The important requirement is that the professional carrying out the verification is properly authorised by Companies House.

This can make the ACSP route useful for non-resident directors and international property investors who operate UK companies.

Check Your Companies House Details

If your verification keeps failing, check whether the information held by Companies House is accurate.

Look at details such as:

• Your full name

• Date of birth

• Director appointment

• PSC information where applicable

• Company details connected to your role

Incorrect information may need to be corrected before you can successfully complete the verification process.

What If Verification Is Still Unsuccessful?

Do not simply ignore the problem, particularly if your company's confirmation statement or another filing is approaching.

Directors need to complete the required verification and provide their Companies House personal code when required. A company may be unable to file its confirmation statement unless all relevant directors have completed the required verification.

Failing to comply with identity verification requirements on time can also lead to financial penalties, prosecution or other enforcement action.

Fraser Bond Companies House Verification Support

Fraser Bond provides practical UK company administration and corporate compliance support for directors, PSCs, property companies, overseas investors and international businesses.

Support can include Companies House identity verification administration, personal code assistance, confirmation statement support, director compliance, PSC requirements and wider UK corporate administration.

If you cannot verify your identity directly with Companies House, professional assistance can help you identify the appropriate verification route and deal with the issue before an important filing deadline.

Get Your Verification Completed

If Companies House identity verification is not working, start by checking your personal information and identity documents. If the direct route continues to be unsuccessful, consider using an authorised professional through the ACSP process.

Completing verification early can help prevent problems with future Companies House filings and your responsibilities as a UK company director.