From 18 November 2025, Companies House are introducing one of the biggest administrative changes UK directors have seen in years — the Companies House director verification code.
This isn’t just another form or login; it’s a permanent personal identifier that will reshape how directors interact with Companies House and fulfil their legal duties.
If you’re a company director or Person with Significant Control, it’s important to understand what this change means and how to stay compliant.
What Is the Companies House Verification Code?
Under reforms introduced by the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023, all directors will need to verify their identity through Companies House.
Once verified, each director receives a unique 11-digit verification code — a permanent code that links them personally to every company they are involved in.
You’ll only ever be issued one code, and it will follow you throughout your directorship career.
This means:
- You cannot share or delegate your verification responsibilities.
- Your code applies across all your companies.
- You are personally accountable for filings made under your name.
Why the Verification Code Matters
This code isn’t a one-off formality — it’s central to ongoing Companies House compliance.
It’s required for:
- Filing annual confirmation statements
- Updating director or shareholder information
- Amending registered addresses
- Reporting company activity and SIC code updates
Without a valid code, your company cannot complete these essential filings.
Failure to comply may lead to:
- Late filing penalties
- Company strike-off from the register
- Director disqualification or fines for non-compliance
In short, losing or failing to obtain your code can legally stop your company from operating.
The Verification Process: What to Expect
Directors will complete verification using Companies House’s One Login system or through an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP), such as a registered accountant.
Verification involves confirming your identity using official documents and, in some cases, answering personal financial questions similar to those used for credit checks.
Options include:
- Online verification via smartphone or desktop
- In-person verification at participating Post Office branches
The process can be detailed — so it’s advisable to complete it early rather than risk delays near the filing deadline.
Protecting Your Verification Code
Once issued, you will only receive your 11-digit verification code once.
It’s essential to record and store it securely — treat it as you would company banking or login credentials.
If it’s misplaced, you may need to repeat the verification process to obtain a replacement.
Practical steps:
- Store your code securely in your firm’s compliance records.
- Avoid sending it by unencrypted email.
- Ensure authorised staff can access it when filing company documents.
Implications for Multi-Company Directors
If you hold multiple directorships, your single verification code covers all companies you act for.
While this adds convenience, it also increases risk: if your code is lost or not verified correctly, it can affect every company you’re connected to.
Company secretaries and administrative teams should ensure all directors have verified and stored their codes before the new rules come into force.
Final Thoughts
The Companies House verification code represents a fundamental change in corporate governance — linking directors directly and permanently to the companies they manage.
Our advice is simple:
Get verified early, keep your code safe, and make sure your records are ready before your filing dates.
Failing to act could lead to missed filings, penalties, or even company strike-off — outcomes that are far more costly than taking a few minutes to complete the verification process.
Please always seek professional advice before taking any action. We are happy to answer questions in future issues. Please send your questions through the contact us page on our website: www.champconsultants.co.uk
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