The UK business landscape is about to change dramatically. The Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023 (ECCTA) introduces mandatory identity verification for over 5 million company directors, PSCs, and LLP members—and the deadline is 18 November 2025.
If you’re a director or person with significant control, you need to act now. Here’s what you need to know.
What Is ECCTA and Why Does It Matter?
ECCTA is the UK government’s response to corporate fraud, money laundering, and the misuse of shell companies. The new law requires every company director, PSC, and LLP member to verify their identity with Companies House before they can legally operate in that role.
This isn’t optional. Without verified identity, you won’t be able to file documents, make company changes, or continue acting as a director or PSC after the deadline.
Who Must Verify Their Identity?
The verification requirement applies to:
- All company directors (new and existing)
- Persons with Significant Control (PSCs) who own 25%+ of shares or voting rights
- LLP members (both designated and regular members)
- Individuals representing Relevant Legal Entities (RLEs) that qualify as PSCs
Even if you’ve been a director for years, you still need to complete verification. There are very few exceptions.
Three Ways to Get Verified
You have three options for completing your identity verification:
1. Companies House Direct – Use the official digital service with your passport or driving license. Free but requires technical capability.
2. Authorized Corporate Service Provider (ACSP) – Professional verification services that can handle the process for you. Costs vary significantly.
3. Regulated Professional – Your solicitor or accountant may offer verification as part of their services if they’re properly authorized.
For detailed guidance on choosing the right verification method and understanding the full scope of changes, read more about the big shake-up in company law and ECCTA identity verification affecting 5 million+ people https://theedinburghreporter.co.uk/2025/09/big-shake-up-in-company-law-eccta-identity-verification-i-5m-people-affected/.
Common Problems to Avoid
Many people are already running into issues with the verification process:
Document quality – Blurry scans or expired documents get rejected immediately. Make sure everything is current and clearly legible.
Name mismatches – If your name differs slightly across documents, you’ll face delays. Ensure consistency.
Last-minute rush – With millions needing verification, processing times will increase dramatically as the deadline approaches. Don’t wait.
Hidden fees – Some ACSPs don’t advertise their costs upfront. Always get written quotes before starting.
What Happens If You Don’t Comply?
Missing the deadline has serious consequences:
- You can’t file documents with Companies House
- You may be removed from the register
- Your company can’t make official changes
- You risk personal liability and potential criminal penalties
For businesses, unverified directors mean operational paralysis. Banking, contracts, and regulatory filings all become impossible.
Don’t Wait—Start Now
With the November 2025 deadline approaching and millions of people needing verification, the system will become increasingly overwhelmed. What takes a few days now could take weeks or months closer to the deadline.
Take action today:
- Check which verification method suits you best
- Gather your identity documents
- Start the process immediately
- Budget for any associated costs
ECCTA is here to stay, and compliance isn’t optional. The sooner you act, the smoother your transition to the new transparency regime will be.
