27. June 2026

Companies House Wants to Know It's Really You

For years, Companies House has been a bit like that nightclub with the world's most relaxed bouncer. You could stroll up, scribble a name on the form and, more often than not, nobody looked too closely.

Those days are over.

Under the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act, every company director and Person with Significant Control (PSC) will need to prove they really are who they say they are. New directors must complete identity checks before taking up the role, while existing directors will be given time to verify themselves.

The checks can be completed directly through Companies House or via an authorised agent, such as your accountant.

It's a sensible change. For years it has been surprisingly easy to set up companies using false details. Going forward, if your name is Mickey Mouse and you live at Buckingham Palace, Companies House may ask a few awkward questions.

For honest business owners, it's hardly the end of civilisation. You'll probably receive another email from your accountant asking you to complete an online check, spend a few minutes proving your identity and then get on with your day.

For anyone relying on fake identities, however, Companies House has finally swapped its clip-on tie for a high-vis security jacket. The easy ride is over.