One of the biggest compliance changes in decades began quietly in November 2025: mandatory identity verification at Companies House.

Under new powers granted by the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act, all company directors and persons with significant control (PSCs) must verify their identity. New appointments must verify immediately, while existing directors will do so when filing their next confirmation statement during the transition period.

From spring 2026, anyone filing documents on behalf of companies—including accountants—must be registered as an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP).

This fundamentally changes how company administration works. Companies House is no longer a passive registry—it now actively checks, queries and rejects submissions.

For clients, failing to comply may mean rejected filings, delays, or penalties. For accountants, this adds responsibility but also reinforces the value of having a professional manage compliance properly.

Key takeaway: Company administration just became more formal, more regulated, and harder to DIY