Letter to People with Significant Control Regarding ID Verification
The introduction of identity verification is one of the key changes to UK company law under the Economic Crime & Corporate Transparency Act 2023 (ECCTA). This applies to new and existing company directors, new and existing PSCs, as well as those delivering documents to Companies House.
All these parties will need to be identity verified under the provisions of the ECCTA and there will be potential civil and criminal penalties for failure to do so. The voluntary period for identity verification opened on 8th April 2025 and mandatory identity verification begins on 18th November 2025.
The first wave of mandatory identity verification only applies to individual PSCs rather than relevant legal entities (RLEs). RLEs will have to complete identity verification at a later, as yet unspecified, date.
Use this letter to brief PSCs on Companies House identity verification
This template letter is for a company to send to its PSCs. It outlines, in broad terms, the identity verification regime applicable to PSCs, including the timescales involved and the steps that both the PSC and the company need to take to complete the process in a timely manner.
ECCTA 2023: why identity verification matters
The ECCTA gives Companies House new and enhanced powers to help disrupt economic crime and the identity verification regime is a key component of this.
From 18th November 2025: PSC identity verification within strict time limits
From 18th November 2025, new and existing PSCs will need to complete identity verification within strict new time limits.
This letter has been updated to reflect the Government’s timetable and the transition period anticipated as large numbers of individuals complete enhanced checks. For companies that have not already done so, communicating with PSCs is now a matter of urgency.
Verifying as early as possible helps reduce the risk of missed deadlines and potential fines for non-compliance if complications arise.
How PSCs can complete identity verification
Most PSCs should be able to complete identity verification via the GOV.UK One Login Service, which is a Government service.
Where there are complications (for example, with identity documents, ability to use online services or overseas PSCs), a PSC may need to use an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP) to complete identity verification.
Companies House guidance
Companies House guidance on the identity verification process is available here.
Letter to People with Significant Control Regarding ID Verification is part of Corporate. Just £38.50 + VAT provides unlimited downloads from Corporate for 1 year.