For every UK limited company, filing a Confirmation Statement is not optional — it is a legal obligation. Yet many directors are unaware that major new identity verification rules are now directly linked to this annual filing requirement.
With new regulations coming into force from November 2025, company directors and Persons with Significant Control (PSCs) must take action to remain compliant.
Here’s what every director needs to know.
What Is a Confirmation Statement?
A Confirmation Statement (previously known as the annual return) is a statutory filing submitted to Companies House.
Its purpose is simple: to confirm that the information held about your company is accurate and up to date.
This includes:
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Registered office address
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Details of company directors
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Persons with Significant Control (PSCs)
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Share capital and ownership structure
A Confirmation Statement must be filed at least once every 12 months, or within 14 days of certain changes.
Failing to file can result in penalties, potential prosecution, and risks to your company’s good standing.
New Legal Requirement: Identity Verification (From 18 November 2025)
From 18 November 2025, identity verification becomes mandatory for directors and PSCs.
This requirement is introduced under the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023, which aims to:
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Reduce corporate fraud
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Increase transparency
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Strengthen trust in the UK business environment
Under the new rules:
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New directors must verify their identity before appointment.
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Existing directors must verify identity before filing the next Confirmation Statement due after 18 November 2025.
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PSCs must also complete identity verification.
Without verification, individuals may be unable to act as directors or fulfil their statutory duties.
Who Must Verify Their Identity?
The following individuals are required to verify:
✔ Directors of UK companies
✔ Directors of overseas companies registered in the UK
✔ Persons with Significant Control (PSCs)
✔ Authorised Corporate Service Providers (ACSPs) filing on behalf of clients
Once verified, Companies House will issue a personal verification code, which must be used for future filings — including Confirmation Statements.
How Do You Verify Your Identity?
There are two main routes available:
1️⃣ Online via GOV.UK One Login
Directors and PSCs can verify their identity through the official GOV.UK One Login digital system.
2️⃣ Through an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP)
Accountants, solicitors, or registered agents authorised by Companies House can verify identity on your behalf.
After successful verification, the personal verification code must be included in relevant filings. PSCs will also be required to submit their verification details when prompted.
When Do You Need to Act?
🔹 New Directors & PSCs
Must complete identity verification before appointment is filed.
🔹 Existing Directors
Must verify identity before filing the next Confirmation Statement due after 18 November 2025.
🔹 Existing PSCs
Must ensure their verification code is provided when required.
Failure to act could:
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Prevent you from being appointed as a director
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Delay company filings
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Lead to compliance breaches
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Risk fines or legal consequences
Why This Matters for Your Business
These reforms significantly change how company compliance works in the UK.
For businesses, this means:
📌 All directors and PSCs must complete identity verification
📌 Personal verification codes must be included in filings
📌 Planning ahead avoids delays and last-minute complications
📌 Compliance failures could disrupt operations
The UK government’s objective is clear: to ensure only genuine, verified individuals control UK companies.
How Taxted Accountants Can Help
At Taxted Accountants, we assist company directors and business owners with:
✔ Coordinating identity verification with Companies House
✔ Preparing and filing Confirmation Statements accurately and on time
✔ Monitoring compliance deadlines
✔ Acting as an authorised agent for verification and submissions
If you’re unsure whether your directors or PSCs have verified their identity — or how the new rules affect your next Confirmation Statement — our team can guide you step by step and ensure your company remains fully compliant.
Don’t wait until the deadline approaches.
Early action now will prevent unnecessary stress, delays, or penalties later.