Director identity verification services

From 18 November 2025, all company directors and people with significant control (PSCs) will be legally required to verify their identity before filing with Companies House.

SO Legal is an authorised corporate service provider (ACSP) approved to carry out identity checks on behalf of directors, shareholders, and corporate clients, offering a fast, secure, and compliant service under the new rules.

Who needs to act

All company directors and PSCs must verify their identity, including:

• Existing directors before their next confirmation statement.
• New directors before appointment.
• PSCs within 14 days of notification.

Future stages will extend to LLP members, limited partnerships, and corporate directors.

How our ACSP verification service works

Our solicitors make the process straightforward for businesses of all sizes. We can verify identities electronically via E-COS or in person from our offices. Our service includes:

• Verifying identity using approved documents under AML supervision.
• Issuing the official Companies House personal code.
• Linking each verified individual to their company role.
• Managing the confirmation statement filing and related submissions.

This streamlined process helps directors avoid errors, delays, and non-compliance penalties.

Our fixed-fee verification service starts from £250 + VAT for the first director and £150 + VAT for each additional director verified within the same company. 

The fee reflects the level of legal oversight and AML compliance required for ACSP verification, ensuring the process is carried out accurately and securely.

Why use an authorised corporate service provider

Using an ACSP helps directors and PSCs stay compliant without dealing directly with Companies House’s online systems.

As an authorised agent supervised under UK anti-money laundering regulations, we ensure:

• Compliance with Companies House verification standards.
• Secure handling and storage of personal identity data.
• Flexible in-person and electronic verification options.
• Full support for overseas directors and PSCs.

Preparing your business for 18 November 2025

Companies that act now will avoid disruption when the new system takes effect.

We can help directors and company secretaries:

• Review company records and director information.
• Identify and verify PSCs.
• Establish an internal compliance timetable.
• Align governance and filings under the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023.

Expert legal support for business owners and directors

As experienced corporate solicitors and an approved ACSP, we combine regulatory insight with practical business support.

We work with business owners, directors, and accountants to ensure compliance across all company law obligations, from formation and shareholder agreements to director duties and company secretarial services.

Get in touch to arrange director identity verification with our ACSP-approved corporate solicitors.