As of 8 April 2025, Companies House has introduced new identity verification requirements as part of the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023. This is a significant development for business owners, especially directors and persons with significant control (PSCs), across the UK. If you operate a business in Salford or Swinton, here’s what you need to know—and how Cogency Chartered Accountants can help.
What’s Changing?
Under the new rules, individuals involved in setting up, managing, or filing for UK companies will now be required to verify their identity. This includes:
- Company directors
- Persons with significant control (PSCs)
- Individuals who file documents on behalf of a company
Verification can be completed in one of two ways:
- Through the GOV.UK One Login, or
- Via an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP), such as Cogency Chartered Accountants.
ACSPs have been able to register with Companies House since 18 March 2025. The identity verification process became available to individuals on 8 April 2025. While the process is currently voluntary, it will become a legal requirement later in 2025, likely in the autumn.
What Does This Mean for Existing Companies?
As your trusted local company formation accountant in Salford and Swinton, Cogency Chartered Accountants is an approved ACSP. That means we can handle the identity verification process on your behalf, ensuring:
- No hassle with setting up and managing GOV.UK logins
- Proper recording and documentation of all checks
- Full compliance ahead of the legal deadline
We’ll be integrating these new requirements into our company formation and filing services over the coming months to ensure a seamless transition for our clients.
If you’re already using our services for company formation and corporate filings, we’ll handle the ID checks as part of our ongoing support. If you currently manage your own filings and want help navigating these changes, our expert team is ready to assist.
Don’t Wait to Get Compliant
These new requirements are a part of the UK government’s broader efforts to improve corporate transparency and combat economic crime. By acting now, you can avoid last-minute stress and ensure your business remains compliant.
To learn more or get started with identity verification, contact us today. Or explore our full list of services to see how else we can support your business.