Verifying Your Identity for Companies House: ACSP Guide 2025

Understanding Companies House Identity Verification

Verifying your identity for Companies House is now a mandatory requirement for company directors, persons with significant control (PSCs), and anyone filing documents with the UK’s company registrar. This enhanced security measure, introduced to combat corporate fraud and money laundering, ensures that only authorized individuals can make changes to company records.

The identity verification process applies to both new company incorporations and ongoing filings for existing companies. Directors and PSCs must complete this verification before they can be appointed or make statutory filings, making it a crucial step in corporate compliance.

What is ACSP Identity Verification?

An Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP) offers professional identity verification services for Companies House filings. ACSPs are regulated entities authorized to verify identities on behalf of individuals who need to file documents with Companies House but cannot complete the digital verification process themselves.

ACSP services are particularly valuable for individuals who lack the required identity documents for digital verification, live overseas, or prefer professional assistance with their Companies House obligations. These providers offer face-to-face verification services and can handle complex identity verification scenarios.

Digital Identity Verification Process

Online Verification Method

Companies House offers a free digital identity verification service through their online platform. This process typically takes 5-10 minutes and requires:

• Valid photo ID: UK or EU driving licence, UK or EU passport, or UK biometric residence permit
• Smartphone or computer with camera capability
• Clear photos of your identity document and a selfie

The digital verification system uses advanced technology to check document authenticity and match facial features, providing immediate results in most cases.

Required Documents

For successful identity verification, you’ll need one of the following documents:

• UK or EU driving licence (full or provisional)
• UK or EU passport (including expired passports up to 12 months old)
• UK biometric residence permit or card

Documents must be original, clearly visible, and match the name on your Companies House filing.

When to Use ACSP Services

Overseas Residents

If you live outside the UK and don’t possess acceptable UK or EU identity documents, ACSP verification may be your only option for Companies House filings. ACSPs can verify international identity documents and facilitate remote verification processes.

Document Issues

ACSP services are essential when you cannot complete digital verification due to:

• Lack of acceptable identity documents
• Technical difficulties with online verification
• Document quality issues preventing successful scanning
• Preference for professional handling of the verification process

Business Applications

Many businesses use ACSP services to streamline the verification process for multiple directors or when incorporating several companies simultaneously. This approach ensures consistent, professional handling of identity verification requirements.

Benefits of Professional ACSP Services

Expert Guidance

ACSPs understand the complexities of Companies House requirements and can navigate challenging verification scenarios. They provide expert advice on documentation requirements and alternative verification routes when standard processes fail.

Time Efficiency

Professional ACSP services can expedite the verification process, particularly for urgent company incorporations or time-sensitive filings. Many ACSPs offer same-day verification services for business clients.

Compliance Assurance

Using regulated ACSP services ensures full compliance with Companies House identity verification requirements. ACSPs maintain detailed records and provide audit trails for verification processes.

Choosing an ACSP Provider

When selecting an ACSP for identity verification, consider:

• Regulation status: Ensure the provider is properly authorized
• Service scope: Confirm they offer identity verification services
• Location convenience: Look for providers offering face-to-face meetings
• Pricing transparency: Compare fees for verification services
• Turnaround times: Check processing speeds for urgent requirements

Many accountancy firms, company formation agents, and legal practices offer ACSP services alongside their core business services.

Cost Considerations

While Companies House digital verification is free, ACSP services typically charge fees ranging from £30-100 per person depending on service complexity and urgency. Consider these costs against the convenience and expertise provided, particularly for overseas residents or complex verification scenarios.

Conclusion

Verifying your identity for Companies House is now an essential compliance requirement for UK company directors and PSCs. While digital verification offers a free, convenient option for most people, ACSP services provide valuable alternatives for those who cannot complete online verification. Choose the method that best suits your circumstances to ensure smooth Companies House compliance.

External Links to HMRC/GOV