Note to Directors – Summary of key Issues under ECCTA

The Economic Crime & Corporate Transparency Act 2023 (ECCTA) is significant new legislation that gives Companies House new and enhanced powers to disrupt economic crime. Those responsible for corporate governance need to understand how the changes affect their organisation, as many day-to-day, longstanding company processes have changed.

Use this note to brief directors on the practical impact of the ECCTA

This template is a short summary note to directors, typically sent by a company secretary or company administrator. It is designed to give directors a clear, go-to overview of the ECCTA points most likely to affect them and the company, and the action that needs to be taken in response.

What this directors’ note focuses on

The note is intended as a summary rather than a detailed briefing. It concentrates on practical implications and includes a helpful list of action points for companies to consider as the ECCTA is implemented, including changes to onboarding processes for new directors.

Implementation phases and identity verification updates

The first phase of implementation of the ECCTA began in March 2024 and the Act is being implemented in phases. Many measures are already in force. 

Note that the first wave of the mandatory identity verification regime is now in force (since 18th November 2025) and that, from the same date, companies are no longer required to maintain registers of directors, directors' residential addresses, secretaries and people with significant control (PSCs).

Most recently it has been announced that there is a delay to IDV requirements for those filing on behalf of companies. This will now not happen any earlier than November 2026. No date has also been set for IDV requirements for corporate directors and corporate PSCs. In addition, the changes to accounts filing will not be introduced in April 2027. Companies will receive at least 21 months' notice to prepare. This note is constantly updated to reflect changes and implementation dates as they happen.

Companies House guidance in relation to the IDV process is available here.

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