How to Verify Director Identity Companies House - UK Verification Guide
Director identity verification is now a legal requirement for UK company directors. The process can be completed directly through Companies House using GOV.UK One Login or through an Authorised Corporate Service Provider.
How to Verify Your Identity as a Director
There are two main ways to complete Companies House identity verification.
1. Verify Directly Through Companies House
You can complete the verification process yourself using GOV.UK One Login.
You will generally need an acceptable form of photo identification and may be asked to provide information to confirm your identity.
The process can be completed online, although alternative verification methods are available where the online process cannot verify you successfully.
2. Use an Authorised Corporate Service Provider
You can also use an Authorised Corporate Service Provider, commonly called an ACSP.
ACSPs include appropriately authorised professional firms such as accountants, solicitors and company formation agents. They can carry out the required identity checks and submit the verification to Companies House on your behalf.
This option can be useful for overseas directors or people who have difficulty completing the direct verification process.
What Happens After Verification?
Once your identity has been successfully verified, Companies House issues an 11-character personal code.
The code belongs to you personally, not to your company. You should keep it secure because you may need it for each company directorship you hold.
Existing directors generally provide their personal code when their company files its next confirmation statement. New directors provide it as part of the applicable appointment or incorporation filing.
Do You Need to Verify Again for Every Company?
No. You generally only need to complete the identity verification process once.
If you are a director of several companies, the same personal code can be used to confirm your verified identity for each relevant directorship.
What If You Cannot Verify Your Identity?
If the direct GOV.UK One Login process cannot verify you, you may be able to use an ACSP instead.
This can be particularly useful where your identity documents or circumstances make the standard online verification process difficult.
Fraser Bond Director Identity Verification Support
Fraser Bond provides practical UK corporate administration and compliance support for directors, overseas entrepreneurs, investors and UK companies.
Our services can include director identity verification coordination, Companies House administration, registered office services, PSC compliance, company filing support and wider corporate administration.
Get Support With Companies House Verification
If you need help completing your director identity verification or managing the related Companies House requirements, Fraser Bond can provide practical corporate compliance support.
