Overview
Companies House reforms require relevant people to verify their identity and connect the verified identity to company roles. The implementation is phased and official requirements can change, so companies should rely on the current Companies House service and guidance rather than old screenshots or third-party summaries.
Who this applies to
Directors, people with significant control, relevant officers and agents filing on behalf of companies.
Key points
- Use the official Companies House process or an authorised corporate service provider where appropriate.
- Names and personal details should be consistent across documents and the register.
- Keep personal codes secure and do not send them through insecure channels.
- Verification does not replace the company’s normal filing obligations.
Important dates and deadlines
The deadline depends on the person’s role, appointment date and the implementation timetable. Companies House communications and the public register should be checked for the applicable date.
Practical checklist
- Check each director and PSC record.
- Identify people who still need verification.
- Use current official instructions.
- Record completion securely.
- Review new appointments before filing.
Frequently asked questions
Is the company authentication code the same as a personal code?
No. They serve different purposes and both should be protected.
Can an accountant verify clients?
Only where the firm and process meet the authorised corporate service provider requirements.
How Accountants4All can help
Support matched to your circumstances
Accountants4All can help clients understand the required steps and update company records, subject to the firm’s authorised-service arrangements.
Official sources and further reading
This page is general guidance and does not create an adviser/client relationship. Tax rules and official guidance can change. Use the official sources above and obtain advice based on your circumstances.
Read the full tax disclaimer