Companies House has begun contacting company directors and people with significant control (PSCs) who have not completed new identity verification requirements.

The organisation started its latest compliance push on 26 August, following the introduction of compulsory identity checks in November 2025. The measures are intended to improve the accuracy of the Companies House register and help prevent companies from being used for fraud and other illegal activity.

Directors and PSCs who successfully verify their identity receive an 11-digit Companies House personal code. This must then be provided to Companies House when required.

A potential issue arises where an individual is both a director and a PSC. Although their identity only needs to be verified once, their personal code may need to be provided separately for each role.

Companies House is now contacting individuals who appear not to have completed the necessary steps. Businesses should therefore ensure their directors and PSCs have verified their identities and that the correct personal codes have been submitted.

Companies should also check that the information held on the Companies House register is up to date. Where an accountant or other agent receives Companies House correspondence on a client’s behalf, the organisation has asked that it be passed on to the relevant individual.

Failure to meet the identity verification requirements can result in financial penalties or prosecution, while unverified individuals may also face restrictions on company-related activities.

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