TaxStats ID — Companies House Identity Verification
Verify your identity for Companies House quickly and securely.
What is Companies House Identity Verification?
The Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act introduced a requirement for all directors, persons with significant control (PSCs), and anyone filing documents with Companies House to verify their identity. This is a legal obligation that applies to all UK registered companies.
Identity verification ensures that the individuals behind UK companies are who they say they are. It helps prevent fraud, money laundering, and the misuse of corporate structures. Companies House requires verification before key filings can be made, including confirmation statements and changes to company officers.
TaxStats is an authorised identity verification provider. We can verify your identity digitally, by video call, or in person at our Manchester office. Once verified, your identity code is linked to your Companies House record and can be used for all future filings.
Why Identity Verification is Required
Regulatory Requirement
The Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act mandates identity verification for all company directors and PSCs. Non-compliance can result in filing rejections and potential penalties.
Prevent Fraud
Identity verification helps prevent the creation of fraudulent companies, protects against identity theft, and ensures that company records at Companies House are accurate and trustworthy.
Compliance Obligation
Without verified identity, you will be unable to make key filings with Companies House including confirmation statements, appointments, and resignations. Staying verified keeps your company compliant.
Choose Your Verification Method
We offer three ways to verify your identity. Choose the option that works best for you.
Digital Verification
Verify online using your passport or driving licence. Results in minutes.
- Verify from anywhere with an internet connection
- Valid passport or UK driving licence required
- AI-powered identity document scanning
- Typical completion time: under 10 minutes
- Instant confirmation sent to your email
Video Verification
Live video call with our verification team. Suitable if digital verification isn't available.
- One-to-one video call with a trained verifier
- Wider range of ID documents accepted
- Available Monday to Friday, 9am - 5pm
- Typical turnaround: within 24 hours
- Guidance provided throughout the process
In-Person Verification
Visit our Manchester office for face-to-face verification. Bring your ID documents.
- Face-to-face verification at our Manchester office
- All forms of government-issued ID accepted
- Same-day verification and confirmation
- Appointment required — book online
- Located at Work.Life, 30 Brown Street, M2 1DH
Ready to Verify Your Identity?
Get verified quickly and securely. Our digital verification takes just minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who needs to verify?+
All directors and persons with significant control (PSCs) of UK companies are required to verify their identity with Companies House. This applies to both existing and newly appointed directors and PSCs. The requirement was introduced under the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act to improve the accuracy of Companies House records and prevent misuse of corporate structures.
What documents do I need?+
For digital verification, you will need a valid passport or a UK photocard driving licence. For video and in-person verification, we accept a wider range of government-issued photo identification including passports, UK driving licences, national identity cards from EEA countries, and biometric residence permits. You may also need a secondary proof of address such as a recent utility bill or bank statement.
How long does it take?+
Digital verification typically completes within minutes — you scan your document, take a selfie, and our system performs automated checks. Video verification appointments are usually available within 24 hours and the call itself takes around 15 minutes. In-person verification is completed on the same day as your appointment, usually within 30 minutes of arriving at our office.
Is my data secure?+
Absolutely. All identity documents and personal data are encrypted using AES-256 encryption both in transit and at rest. We are registered with the Information Commissioner's Office (ICO) and fully comply with GDPR and the UK Data Protection Act 2018. Your identity documents are used solely for the purpose of verification and are not shared with any third parties beyond Companies House. Data is retained only for the minimum period required by law.
What happens after verification?+
Once your identity has been verified, we submit your verification to Companies House on your behalf. You will receive a unique verification code which is linked to your Companies House record. This code is required for future filings such as confirmation statements, changes of directors, and other company updates. You will receive confirmation by email once Companies House has processed your verification, which typically takes 1-2 working days.