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Big Changes Are Coming to UK Company Compliance
The UK is cracking down on corporate transparency—and that means changes for every company director, LLP member, and person with significant control. From November 2025, identity verification will become mandatory, and failure to comply could result in blocked filings, financial penalties, or even prosecution. Here’s what you need to know to stay compliant and avoid disruption.
What’s Changing Under the New Rules?
From late 2025, anyone involved in running, owning, or controlling a UK company or LLP will be legally required to prove their identity to Companies House. This includes:
- Company directors
- LLP members
- Persons with Significant Control (PSCs)
You’ll only need to verify once, and the process connects your identity to all current and future appointments.
When Does Identity Verification Become Mandatory?
The mandatory ID verification rule will officially kick in from November 2025. However, a 12-month transition period will follow—giving existing directors and PSCs until late 2026 to complete the process.
If you’re incorporating a new company or becoming a new director after the start date, you’ll need to verify immediately.
How Will Identity Verification Work?
Verification will happen online via the UK Government’s secure login system. Once complete, you’ll be issued a Unique Identifier Number (UIN)—a personal code that links your verified identity to your Companies House records.
- You only need to verify once.
- The UIN allows trusted professionals to make filings on your behalf.
- Your status as “verified” will appear publicly.
Without a UIN, you won’t be able to make or authorise filings, or register as a company director in the future.
What Happens If You Don’t Comply?
Failure to verify your identity will lead to serious consequences:
- You won’t be able to form a new company.
- You may be blocked from submitting confirmation statements, annual accounts, or other filings.
- You could face financial penalties, be removed as a director, or even face criminal prosecution.
Repeated non-compliance will trigger escalating penalties and, in serious cases, disqualification.
New Companies House Penalties: What You Should Know
Companies House now has broader powers to enforce compliance, including:
- Penalties for late or missed filings beyond just annual accounts
- Fines for inaccurate or outdated records
- Enforcement actions based on the frequency and severity of the breach
Intentional attempts to deceive or avoid verification can lead to criminal charges. If convicted, individuals could end up with a criminal record—impacting future business activities and professional status.
Role of Authorised Agents (ACSPs)
If you don’t want to verify directly—or if you’re based outside the UK—you can use an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP). These are regulated agents, such as accountants or lawyers, who can verify your identity and make filings on your behalf.
From 2026, only authorised agents will be able to act for unverified individuals.
Tips to Stay Compliant
- Verify early – Don’t wait until the deadline. Start the process now to avoid last-minute issues.
- Keep your UIN safe – You’ll need it for all future filings.
- Inform your company secretary or accountant – They may need your UIN to file documents.
- Ensure accurate filings – Check your company details are up to date before penalties are enforced.
Act Now to Protect Your Company and Reputation
The upcoming identity verification requirement is one of the biggest changes in UK corporate regulation in years. It’s designed to improve transparency and clamp down on fraud—but the burden of compliance falls on company directors and controllers.
Act early. Verify your identity. And make sure your records are accurate and up to date. Failing to do so could damage your company’s credibility—or worse, expose you to fines or legal trouble.