The changes form part of the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act, designed to make the UK’s corporate landscape more transparent and reduce the risk of fraud. Every UK company will be affected, so it’s important to understand what’s required and how to stay compliant.
Who Needs to Verify
Identity verification will apply to:
Company directors and LLP members
People with Significant Control (PSCs)
Company secretaries or anyone submitting filings on behalf of a company
If you’re unsure whether you’re a PSC, you usually qualify if you:
Own more than 25% of company shares
Hold more than 25% of voting rights
Have the right to appoint or remove a majority of the board
When You Need to Verify
Mandatory verification starts from 18 November 2025, with a 12-month transition period for existing directors and PSCs.
Key milestones include:
New directors/LLP members: must verify before appointment
New PSCs: must verify within 14 days of being added to Companies House
Existing directors and PSCs: must verify before the next confirmation statement after 18 November 2025
Existing PSCs (not directors): must verify by the 14th of the month before their birth month (e.g. if born in March, by 14 March 2026)
Your Options
You can either let Dains take care of the process for you or verify your identity yourself.
Let Dains Handle It
At Dains, we provide clarity and confidence throughout your compliance journey. Dains can complete verification for you under our Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP) licence.
Our service includes:
Secure identity checks through First AML, our trusted verification platform
Full compliance with Companies House regulations
A smooth, efficient process with minimal administration for you
Speak to your usual Dains contact to find out more or to arrange for us to manage the verification process on your behalf. Please note, verification can only be completed with a valid passport or UK driving licence.
We’re here to make the process simple, efficient and fully compliant - so you can focus on running your business, not chasing paperwork.
Verify Directly
You can also verify through GOV.UK One Login using an accepted form of ID such as:
A biometric passport
A UK driving licence
A biometric ID card from the EU, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein
A UK biometric residence permit
What Is an ACSP?
An Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP) is a regulated intermediary, such as Dains, authorised to verify identities and file information securely on your behalf. Using an ACSP ensures your business remains compliant while protecting sensitive data through robust anti-money-laundering (AML) controls.
Your Success Matters
We’re committed to supporting you through every stage of change - helping you stay compliant, protect your business, and move forward with confidence.
