Resources
What is Companies House?
More than 5 million limited companies are registered in the UK.
Over 500,000 new companies are incorporated each year.
We drive confidence in the economy by creating a transparent and accountable business environment. Use of our data informs business and consumer decisions, supports growth and helps disrupt economic crime.
Identity verification: personal codes for Companies House
Your personal code is an 11-character code you receive after you verify your identity.
It's personal to you, not your company.
You’ll need to give this code to Companies House to link your verified identity to each company role you hold.
You can also share it with trusted agents, such as accountants, who file on your behalf.
Understanding identity verification for Companies House
From 18 November 2025, identity verification becomes a legal requirement. This date is not a deadline. It marks the start of a 12-month transition period, giving your company time to make sure all directors and people with significant control (PSCs) have verified their identity by their due dates.
This will reduce the risk of fraud, as well as improve transparency, trust, and accuracy of information on the Companies House register.
Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023: a year on
The first set of measures under the Economic Crime and Transparency (ECCT) Act 2023 came into effect on 4 March 2024.
Since then, we've introduced many measures under the Act.
Here's our progress so far.
Statistics accurate as of 4 March 2025.
What is Companies House?
More than 5 million limited companies are registered in the UK.
Over 500,000 new companies are incorporated each year.
We drive confidence in the economy by creating a transparent and accountable business environment. Use of our data informs business and consumer decisions, supports growth and helps disrupt economic crime.
Identity verification: personal codes for Companies House
Your personal code is an 11-character code you receive after you verify your identity.
It's personal to you, not your company.
You’ll need to give this code to Companies House to link your verified identity to each company role you hold.
You can also share it with trusted agents, such as accountants, who file on your behalf.
Understanding identity verification for Companies House
From 18 November 2025, identity verification becomes a legal requirement. This date is not a deadline. It marks the start of a 12-month transition period, giving your company time to make sure all directors and people with significant control (PSCs) have verified their identity by their due dates.
This will reduce the risk of fraud, as well as improve transparency, trust, and accuracy of information on the Companies House register.
Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023: a year on
The first set of measures under the Economic Crime and Transparency (ECCT) Act 2023 came into effect on 4 March 2024.
Since then, we've introduced many measures under the Act.
Here's our progress so far.
Statistics accurate as of 4 March 2025.