Confirmation of Identity Letter 
The introduction of identity verification is one of the key changes to UK company law under the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023 (ECCTA). New identity verification (IDV) requirements will be introduced for, amongst others, all new and existing directors. Directors who do not verify their identity will commit a criminal offence and/or incur a civil penalty. Companies that have an unverified director will also commit an offence. IDV will be via biometric photographic ID. Companies House has now opened the voluntary period for IDV (as of 8th April 2025) before it is expected to become compulsory from Autumn 2025.
The ECCTA gives Companies House new and enhanced powers to disrupt economic crime and the IDV regime is a key component of this.
Considering this significant change, companies may wish to get into the habit of verifying the identity of each of their directors, existing and new, as part of their own internal processes and to facilitate the IDV requirements of Companies House. This template letter should be sent to a director requesting that they prove their identity in accordance with the Registrars' (Identity Verification by the Registrar) Rules 2025. This will also help highlight any discrepancies in filings at Companies House, for example a change of name or use of a maiden name and flag whether an identity document needs renewing ahead of the compulsory IDV process. This will all help lessen the likelihood of a missed deadline or a potential fine once the IDV regime becomes compulsory.
All information received should be collected, held and processed in compliance with UK General Data Protection Regulation (UK GDPR). Note that the company will need to identify a lawful basis for processing personal data and ensure that this can be justified. Complying with a legal obligation will fulfill this. More information is available on the ICO’s website here.
The Identity Verification Form should be included with this letter and returned by the director with the relevant ID.
We also have a letter explaining the identity verification regime and its timeline to directors. This can be accessed here.
Companies House guidance in relation to the IDV process is available here.
The document is in open format. Fields should be completed and wording in square brackets is optional and can be deleted or retained according to requirements.
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