Companies House changes for directors: identity verification and accounts filing

Identity verification

Since 18 November 2025, anyone becoming a director or a person with significant control (PSC) must verify their identity with Companies House. Existing directors confirm their verification when the company files its next confirmation statement; existing PSCs have their own 14-day window. The transition period runs until around mid-November 2026, so if your company’s confirmation statement is due soon, check that each director has verified.

Verification is free through GOV.UK One Login, or can be done through an authorised corporate service provider. Each person receives a personal code to share with the company.

Registered office and email

Every company must have an “appropriate address” as its registered office, somewhere documents will come to the attention of someone acting for the company, and where delivery can be acknowledged. PO boxes are not allowed. Companies must also give Companies House a registered email address, which is not published.

Accounts filing from April 2028

From 1 April 2028, company accounts will have to be filed using commercial software; paper and web filing of accounts will close. The option to file abridged accounts is being removed, and small and micro companies will need to file a profit and loss account, although they can choose not to have it published.

What to do now

• Check each director and PSC has verified their identity, and when your next confirmation statement is due.
• Make sure your registered office address is appropriate and your registered email is monitored.
• If you file your own accounts through Companies House’s web service, plan for the move to software.

Anewthing can help with filings and with setting up new companies correctly, see company formation.