Last updated: 31 August 2026
Companies House identity verification is now a legal requirement for people setting up, running, owning or controlling UK companies. You can verify directly through Companies House, or you can ask an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP) to verify you on your behalf.
This guide explains the difference between the two routes, when you need to verify, what your Companies House personal code is used for, and when using an ACSP may be helpful.
What is Companies House identity verification?
Identity verification is designed to confirm that people connected with UK companies are who they say they are. The requirement applies to company directors and people with significant control (PSCs), with the rules being introduced through the current transition arrangements.
Once you have successfully verified, you receive a unique Companies House personal code. You use that code to connect your verified identity to the company roles you hold.
How can I verify my identity?
There are two main routes:
- Directly through Companies House using the GOV.UK identity verification service; or
- Through an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP), such as a suitably registered accountant, solicitor or company-services provider.
Verifying directly with Companies House
For many people, the direct route is the simplest option. Companies House provides an online identity verification service through GOV.UK One Login. Depending on your circumstances and the identity documents you hold, you may be able to complete the process online or be directed to an in-person route.
The direct service is provided by Companies House. If you are comfortable using the GOV.UK process and have suitable identification available, there may be no need to pay an agent to verify you.
Using an ACSP to verify your identity
An ACSP is an agent that has registered with Companies House and is supervised for anti-money laundering purposes. If you use an ACSP, the agent completes the identity checks to the Companies House standard and then tells Companies House that your identity has been verified.
You will normally need to provide the ACSP with your full name, home address, email address and suitable evidence of your identity. The agent will tell you which documents or checks are required.
After the ACSP completes the verification, Companies House sends your personal code to the email address provided during the process.
Direct verification vs ACSP verification
| Direct with Companies House | Through an ACSP |
|---|---|
| Completed using the Companies House/GOV.UK process | Completed by an authorised agent |
| Suitable if you are comfortable completing the process yourself | Useful if you want help understanding the requirements or completing the checks |
| You provide the required identity information directly | You provide the required information and evidence to the ACSP |
| Your personal code is issued after successful verification | Your personal code is issued by Companies House after the ACSP reports successful verification |
When might using an ACSP be helpful?
An ACSP can be useful where you would prefer help with the process, are unsure which evidence is acceptable, have several directors or PSCs to organise, or already use an accountant, solicitor or company-services provider that is registered as an authorised agent.
Using an ACSP does not create a different type of Companies House verification. The end result is the same: your identity is verified and you receive a personal code. The difference is who carries out the checks and supports you through the process.
Who needs to verify?
Identity verification applies to people involved in setting up, running, owning or controlling UK companies. This includes directors and PSCs. The exact timing depends on your role and circumstances, so it is important to check the current Companies House guidance rather than assuming the same deadline applies to everyone.
If you are both a director and a PSC, the same personal code can be used to connect your verified identity to the different roles you hold.
What is a Companies House personal code?
Your personal code is the unique identifier issued after successful identity verification. It is used to link your verified identity to the relevant Companies House records and roles.
The code is personal to you, rather than to a particular company. Keep it secure and do not share it unnecessarily.
Does the ACSP route replace Companies House?
No. An ACSP carries out the identity checks and reports the successful verification, but Companies House remains the public register and issues the personal code. When the verified identity is connected to the relevant records, Companies House can show an identity-verification statement on the public register.
How The Company Shop can help
The Company Shop is a registered Authorised Corporate Service Provider. If you would prefer help completing Companies House identity verification, see our Companies House identity verification service.
If you are happy to complete the process yourself, you can use the direct Companies House route instead. Our aim is to make the paid option clear for people who want assistance, rather than suggest that everyone needs to use an agent.
This article is for general information only and reflects the position at the date it was last updated. It does not constitute legal, tax, accounting or other professional advice and should not be relied upon as such. Companies House processes, deadlines and requirements may change. Check the latest official guidance or seek appropriate professional advice before acting.