As part of the UK government’s wider reforms to tackle economic crime and improve corporate transparency, Companies House has introduced new identity verification requirements for all people with significant control (PSCs).
These changes represent a major shift in UK company law and will require timely action from company owners, directors and advisers. At PEM, we are already supporting clients through this transition and can help you understand what you need to do and when.
This guide explains:
- what identity verification means for PSCs
- when verification must take place
- how the process works
- how PEM can support you with compliance
What is a PSC?
A person with significant control is someone who ultimately owns or controls a company. This generally includes individuals who:
- hold more than 25% of shares
- hold more than 25% of voting rights
- have the right to appoint or remove directors
- exercise significant influence or control, even without formal ownership
A PSC may be:
- a major shareholder
- an investor with board authority
- a trustee overseeing a substantial shareholding
In many SMEs and family-run businesses, PSCs may include:
- founders retaining control
- family members with voting power
- relatives who no longer work in the business but still authorise major decisions
When PSCs must complete identity verification
The timing depends on your role and individual circumstances. Every PSC has a 14‑day window in which they must submit both their Companies House personal code and verification statement.
You can obtain your personal code by verifying your identity:
- via the Verify your identity for Companies House service (using GOV.UK One Login), or
- through an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP) — such as PEM
You only need to verify your identity once. The personal code can then be used for every company role you hold. Refer to our article ‘Your step-by-step guide to identy verification for more information’.
If you are both a PSC and a director
Your 14‑day period begins the day after the company’s confirmation statement date.
Example: Confirmation statement date: 31 March 2026 → verification required 1–14 April 2026.
If you are a PSC but not a director
You must verify within the first 14 days of your birth month.
Example: Birthday: 24 February → verification due 1–14 February 2026.
If you’re a new PSC
You must provide your personal code:
- when you are first added to the register, or
- within 14 days of the date on Companies House’s direction letter
Your exact deadlines can be checked via the Companies House register.
Data mismatches
If Companies House cannot match your verified identity with the details on the register, you will be unable to link your PSC role. Common causes include:
- incorrect date of birth on Companies House records
- incorrect details supplied by an ACSP during verification
You must correct any discrepancies before your identity can be linked.
Key Points to Remember
- Ensure your Companies House personal details match your identity documents before verifying.
- If needed, a 14‑day extension can be requested online before your deadline passes.
- Even if you’ve already verified as a director, you must verify separately as a PSC.
How PEM Can Help
PEM is an Authorised Corporate Service Provider, meaning we can handle PSC identity verification for you — reducing administrative burden and ensuring full compliance.
We can support you by:
- managing the verification process on your behalf
- ensuring your Companies House records are accurate and up to date
- advising on deadlines for multiple roles or group structures
- guiding families, founders and trustees unfamiliar with the new regime
- ensuring full compliance to avoid penalties and delays
If you would like assistance verifying PSCs across your business or simply want to understand your obligations, our Accounts and Company Secretarial teams are here to help. Please get in touch.
Please note that this content is not intended to give specific technical advice. It is designed to highlight some of the key issues rather than provide an exhaustive explanation of the topics. Professional advice should always be sought before action is either taken or refrained from as a result of information contained herein.
