We are an Authorised Corporate Service Provider
From 18 November 2026, Companies House will introduce mandatory Identity Verification (IDV) under the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act. This is designed to improve transparency, reduce fraud, and strengthen trust in company information.
How to Verify Your Identity
There are three ways to get verified:
- Through an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (like us – we can handle it for you).
- Using the GOV.UK One Login app.
- At a Post Office.
Each route has specific requirements for the documents you’ll need. If you’re unsure, we can guide you through what’s acceptable.
What this means for you:
- All directors, members, general partners, managing officers, and persons with significant control (PSC) must have their identity verified before filing a confirmation statement.
- New directors must be verified before their appointment can be filed – within 14 days of appointment or on your first Confirmation Statement if joining after 18 November 2025.
- Ongoing compliance – Verification isn’t a one-off. Your personal code will be used for future filings.
- Notifying Companies House of changes (directors, PSCs, company name, addresses, etc.)
- Keeping accurate records and providing information when requested.
Our role as an ACSP:
Focal Business Group is registered with Companies House as an Authorised Corporate Service Provider, as overseen by our professional body CIMA.
We can;
- Verify your ID on your behalf.
- Handle Companies House filings.
- Ensure your business stays compliant without the stress.
We can verify your identity using secure biometric checks, ensuring your filings remain accurate and on time.
How our verification works:
- IDVT link: We’ll send you a secure link via an onboarding request to complete a NFC Enabled biometric check (facial recognition and ID document validation).
- Please note: You must also provide us with any previous names & proof of current address.
- Companies House notified: After a successful verification, we will submit confirmation of the verification to Companies House via your ACSP portal.
- Personal Code issued: Companies House will send a unique code to your email for your records (keep a note for future filings) – effectively your digital passport confirming that Companies House knows who you are.
- Share code with us: Send us your code promptly so we can continue to file and update your documents.
Note: Each director/PSC must have their own email address for IDV purposes. Shared company emails cannot be used.
Why It Matters
Failing to comply with the new IDV rules isn’t just an admin slip-up. It’s a criminal offence.
- Companies that appoint unverified directors could face fines.
- Non-compliance might also affect your insurance or access to finance.
In short: this isn’t something to ignore.
More information about IDV can be found on Companies House
If you’d like to discuss this article with us further, give us a call 0800 112 0880