A Step-by-Step Guide to Completing Your Companies House ID Verification Process

Completing the Companies House ID verification process is a necessary step for directors and Persons with Significant Control (PSCs) of limited companies. This process ensures that the right individuals are registered and helps maintain the integrity of company records. If you are unsure how to navigate this requirement, this guide will walk you through each stage clearly and practically.

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Understanding the Companies House ID Verification Requirement

Companies House requires directors and PSCs to verify their identity to prevent fraud and improve transparency. This verification is part of the government’s effort to keep company data accurate and trustworthy. The process applies to all individuals currently registered as directors or PSCs or those who wish to register for the first time.

You will need to provide official identification documents and complete an online verification step. The process is straightforward but requires careful attention to detail to avoid delays or rejections.

Ways to Perform the Verification

There are two main ways to perform the verification process:

1. Yourself:

   • directly via Using your GOV.UK One Login: Sign in to your GOV.UK One Login - GOV.UK using your mobile phone and/or computer, or

   • in-person at a participating Post Office (note: you still need to use GOV.UK One Login as the first step of the process)

2. A registered ACSP (Authorised Corporate Service Provider)

   • a list of verified ACSPs is available online at List of Authorised Corporate Service Providers (ACSPs) - GOV.UK

Note: we are not currently registered as an ACSP and cannot complete the ID verification on your behalf. If you do use an ACSP there will be a fee payable to them.

What You Need Before Starting the Verification

Before you begin, gather the following:

• Your valid government-issued photo ID (passport, driving license, or national identity card)

• Your computer/tablet with internet access

• Your mobile phone meeting the minimum requirements with internet access and a camera

• Your email address for communication and confirmation

  
  

Having these ready will make the process smoother and faster.

Step 1: Create your GOV.UK One Login account

Start by visiting Create your GOV.UK One Login or sign in - GOV.UK One Login.

• Enter your email address and click Continue

• Check your emails for the 6-charachter security code, enter this on the website and click Continue

• Create a password and keep a secure note of this

• Enter your mobile phone number and click Continue

• Check your text messages for the 6-charachter security code, enter this on the website and click Continue

You have now successfully created your GOV.UK One Login account. Keep these login details safe as these will be used to access various GOV.UK services, including Companies House.

Step 2: Verify your identity with Companies House

Visit https://www.gov.uk/guidance/verify-your-identity-for-companies-house, read the guidance and make sure you have everything to hand to complete the process (mobile phone, computer, passport or driving licence).

• Click on Verify your identity

• Click on Go to GOV.UK One Login

• A 6-charachter security code will be sent to your registered email address or mobile phone, enter this code and click Continue

• When asked if you have verified your identity click No and then click Continue

You will now see some guidance offering you three options to perform the verification:

Option 1 - using the GOV.UK One Login app

Option 2 - answering some questions

Option 3 - in-person (via Post Office)

• click Continue

• If you would like to use Option 1 select which type of mobile device you are using and click Continue and follow the prompts on-screen.

• If you would like to use Option 2 or 3 click No to indicate you do not want to use a mobile device and click Continue. Confirm that you want prove your identity another way and click Continue.

  • If you want to use Option 2 select whether you want to use your Passport or Driving Licence.

  • If you want to use Option 3 select prove your identity another way and click Continue.

From this point forward you should follow the on-screen prompts.

Tips for a Smooth Verification Process

• Use a stable internet connection and mobile phone signal to avoid interruptions

• Keep your personal information consistent across all documents and answers

• Respond promptly to any follow-up requests from Companies House

• Use a personal email address rather than a business email address

• Keep your GOV.UK One Login details safe as GOV.UK/HMRC are planning to roll this service out across multiple services in the future - a full list of the current services using this login system is available to view online at Services you can use with GOV.UK One Login - GOV.UK One Login

  
  

What Happens After Verification

Once verified, your should keep a note of your Personal ID Code safe - think of this like your National Insurance Number, it's unique to you and used across all companies you are a Director and/or PSC of.

You can find your Personal ID Code via the Manage Account section of the Companies House website.

If you are a Director and/or PSC, your verified status helps protect your company from fraudulent activities and ensures compliance with legal requirements.

Final Thoughts on Completing Your Companies House ID Verification

Completing the Companies House ID verification process is essential for directors and PSCs to maintain accurate company records and comply with legal standards. By preparing your documents, carefully following each step, and answering verification questions honestly, you can complete the process efficiently.