If you’ve recently received a letter from Companies House about identity verification (or your personal code), you’re not alone – and importantly, there’s usually no cause for concern.
Many business owners and persons with significant control (PSCs) are currently receiving official letters about identity verification requirements. The language can feel urgent, but in most cases it is simply part of the normal process.
Here’s what you actually need to know.
What is the Companies House identity verification letter?
The letter is a standard notification explaining:
- that identity verification is now a legal requirement
- the timeframe in which Companies House will accept submissions
- how verified identities are linked to company records
It does not automatically mean there is a problem with your company.
I’ve already verified – why did I receive the letter?
This is the main cause of confusion.
If you have already:
- completed verification through your accountant, or
- verified directly yourself
you may still receive the letter.
This happens because Companies House works within specific submission windows.
If verification is completed early, Companies House may not display the status as verified until the official filing period opens.
What is a personal code?
After identity verification, you receive an 11-character personal code.
This code is:
- unique to you
- used to confirm identity for directors and PSCs
- required when linking your verification to a company
You can read more about it at Companies House website.
At Vibrant Accountancy, any personal codes we receive are securely entered into our system, which then automatically submits them to Companies House when permitted.
It is essential you keep this code as it will be your verification for all Companies House submissions. You also need to keep the email account live that you used to set up your personal code.
Why does the system reject submissions sometimes?
If we try to submit verification before the permitted dates, Companies House returns a notification stating that filing cannot happen yet.
This is expected behaviour – it simply means the submission window has not opened.
Why has identity verification been introduced?
Identity verification is part of new UK legislation aimed at:
- improving transparency
- preventing misuse of companies
- reducing fraudulent activity
Anyone setting up, running, owning or controlling a UK company will eventually need to verify their identity.
What should you do if you receive the letter?
In most cases:
✔ Keep the letter for your records
✔ Do not panic, it is often informational
✔ Contact your accountant if you are unsure
If you are a Vibrant Accountancy client, we are monitoring this process for you.
Government letters can look intimidating – but this one is typically just a notification, not a warning.
If you’re unsure whether your identity has been verified, simply get in touch and we’ll check it for you.
