Director Can't Verify Identity Companies House

What to Do When a UK Company Director Cannot Complete Companies House Identity Verification

If a director can't verify identity Companies House, the issue should be resolved promptly because identity verification is now a legal requirement for relevant company directors. A successful verification gives the director a Companies House personal code, which is required for the relevant company compliance process.

Problems can occur because of identity document issues, differences between personal details, technical difficulties or difficulties using the direct verification route.

Why Companies House Identity Verification May Fail

A director may be unable to complete verification because:

• Personal details do not match the identity document

• The identity document cannot be accepted

• The document has expired or been replaced

• The verification technology cannot read the document

• The director has difficulty completing the online process

• Information provided does not sufficiently establish the person's identity

• There is a technical problem during verification

The information used for verification should accurately reflect the director's identity and Companies House records.

Check Your Details Carefully

If verification fails, check the director's name, date of birth and other personal information against their identity documents and Companies House record.

Differences such as spelling variations, former names or incorrect company information can create problems during the verification process.

Do not repeatedly submit inaccurate information simply to try to pass the check. The objective is to establish the director's genuine identity.

Try Another Verification Route

A director who cannot complete verification through GOV.UK One Login can ask an Authorised Corporate Service Provider to verify their identity on their behalf.

An ACSP can include an eligible accountant, solicitor or company formation professional. The provider must be registered with Companies House and supervised for UK Anti-Money Laundering purposes.

This option is particularly useful for overseas directors or people experiencing difficulties with the direct verification process.

Overseas Directors Who Cannot Verify

Non-UK resident directors can use an ACSP from any country, provided the authorised provider can complete the required checks.

This can provide a practical alternative where an overseas director cannot successfully complete the direct Companies House verification process.

The ACSP must still follow the required Companies House identity verification standard and retain records of the checks carried out.

What Happens If Verification Is Not Completed?

A director who continues acting without completing the required identity verification may be committing an offence. Companies House can use enforcement measures including financial penalties, prosecution and other corporate compliance actions.

A company may also be unable to file its confirmation statement until all relevant directors have completed the required verification and provided their personal codes.

It is therefore important to address failed verification rather than leaving the issue unresolved.

Fraser Bond Companies House Verification Support

Fraser Bond provides professional corporate administration support for directors and businesses dealing with Companies House identity verification requirements.

Support can include:

• Director identity verification assistance

• ACSP verification coordination

• Overseas director support

• Director appointment administration

• Companies House compliance

• PSC administration

• Registered office services

• Company secretarial support

If a director can't verify identity Companies House, professional assistance can help identify the appropriate verification route and organise the information required to complete the process correctly.