What is a Companies House Personal Code?

Introduction: Understanding the Companies House Personal Code

If you are a company director, founder, small business owner, or an overseas entrepreneur with UK interests, you may have come across a new compliance requirement called a Companies House personal code.

From 18 November 2025, Companies House will require individuals in key company roles to verify their identity and use a personal code when making certain filings. This change forms part of the UK government's wider effort to improve transparency, protect the integrity of the company register and tackle economic crime.

For many entrepreneurs, this marks a significant shift in how UK companies are managed and administered. In this guide, we explain exactly what a Companies House personal code is, who needs one, how it works, and what it means for your business.

A Companies House personal code is a unique 11-character alphanumeric identifier issued to an individual once their identity has been successfully verified by Companies House under the UK's new identity verification framework.

This code is a core part of the government's reform of the UK company register and is designed to ensure that the individuals behind UK companies are real, verified and accountable.

Key Characteristics of a Personal Code

A Companies House personal code:

Belongs to you as an individual, not to any specific company. Your personal code stays with you throughout your business career, even if you are involved in multiple companies or change roles over time.
Confirms that your identity has been verified. The code proves that Companies House has verified your identity using official documentation and approved processes.
Is used when filing or updating information at Companies House. It must be included in certain filings, such as confirmation statements and director or PSC appointments.
Helps protect your personal information. By using a personal code, sensitive personal data does not need to be repeatedly submitted or publicly displayed.

Once issued, the same personal code is used across all current and future roles that require identity verification, including directorships, PSC positions and relevant LLP roles.

In simple terms, the personal code acts as a secure digital identifier, confirming that the person behind a company role is legitimate, verified and authorised to act.

Why Has Companies House Introduced Personal Codes?

The introduction of Companies House personal codes is driven by the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act, a major piece of legislation aimed at modernising the UK's corporate framework and reducing misuse of the company register.

Problems With the Old System

Individuals could be listed as directors without robust checks
False or misleading information remained on the public register
Fraudsters could exploit the system to create shell companies

What the New System Achieves

Personal codes help strengthen the UK's defences against:

Fraud and impersonation
False company directorships
Abuse of the UK corporate register

By requiring individuals to verify their identity before acting, Companies House can now ensure that:

Company records are more accurate
Individuals are accountable for their roles
Trust in UK companies is improved for investors, partners and regulators

For legitimate business owners, this change increases credibility, transparency and protection, rather than adding unnecessary bureaucracy.

Who Needs a Companies House Personal Code?

You will need a Companies House personal code if you hold, or are appointed to, certain key roles within a UK business.

Company Directors

All UK company directors — whether newly appointed or already in post — must verify their identity and obtain a personal code.

This applies equally to:

UK residents
Overseas directors
Sole directors and board members

Without a personal code, a director cannot be validly appointed or continue to meet compliance requirements.

Persons with Significant Control (PSCs)

You are classed as a Person with Significant Control (PSC) if you:

Own more than 25% of a company's shares
Control more than 25% of voting rights
Have the right to appoint or remove directors
Otherwise exercise significant influence or control

PSCs must obtain a personal code to confirm their identity and legitimacy, helping prevent hidden ownership and opaque corporate structures.

LLP Members

Certain members of Limited Liability Partnerships (LLPs) are also required to verify their identity and use a personal code, particularly where they perform roles equivalent to company directors.

Authorised Corporate Service Providers (ACSPs)

Professionals who submit filings on behalf of clients — such as accountants, company formation agents and compliance firms — must also:

Verify their own identity
Hold a personal code
Be authorised to act on behalf of others

This ensures accountability not just for company officers, but also for those managing filings.

Important:

Shareholders and company secretaries do not need a personal code unless they also hold one of the roles listed above.

When Will a Personal Code Be Required?

The mandatory use of Companies House personal codes begins on:

18 November 2025

Key Transitional Arrangements

Existing directors must provide their personal code with their first confirmation statement after this date
Existing PSCs will be required to submit their code within a defined compliance window
New appointments made on or after 18 November 2025 will not be accepted without a personal code

Failing to prepare in advance may lead to delays, rejected filings or non-compliance markers on the public register. Early verification is strongly advised.

How to Obtain a Companies House Personal Code

There are two main routes to obtaining a Companies House personal code.

1. Verifying Your Identity Yourself

Individuals can complete identity verification directly using official government channels, including:

The GOV.UK One Login system
The GOV.UK ID Check app
In-person verification at selected Post Office branches

This process typically requires valid identity documents such as a passport or driving licence. Once verification is successful, Companies House issues your personal code electronically.

You should store this code securely, as it will be required for future filings.

2. Verifying Through an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP)

Alternatively, you may choose to verify your identity through an Authorised Corporate Service Provider, such as a professional business or compliance services firm.

This option is particularly beneficial for:

Overseas directors who cannot attend in person
Non-resident entrepreneurs unfamiliar with UK systems
Busy business owners who want expert guidance and reduced administrative burden

The provider completes verification and ensures your personal code is issued correctly.

How Is the Personal Code Used?

Filing confirmation statements
Appointing new directors or PSCs
Updating director or PSC details
Future filings as Companies House expands verification requirements

It links filings to a verified individual, improving accuracy and accountability.

Consequences of Non-Compliance

Failure to obtain or use a Companies House personal code when required can lead to:

Rejected filings
Compliance warnings from Companies House
Financial penalties
Delays to appointments or structural changes
Potential restrictions on acting as a director

In some cases, non-compliance may also be visible on the public register, which can negatively affect business reputation and investor confidence.

Common Issues and How to Avoid Them

Most compliance problems arise from avoidable errors, including:

Names or dates of birth not matching ID documents
Out-of-date or incorrect Companies House records
Attempting verification too close to filing deadlines

Best Practice Tips

Verify your identity early
Review and correct Companies House records before verification
Store your personal code securely
Use professional support if unsure

Proactive preparation significantly reduces the risk of disruption.

How Leadforce Supports Personal Code Compliance

Navigating Companies House personal code requirements can be challenging, particularly for growing businesses and international entrepreneurs.

Leadforce provides structured, end-to-end support to ensure smooth, accurate and timely compliance.

Leadforce Services Include:

Expert guidance on identity verification requirements
Support obtaining and managing personal codes
Dedicated assistance for non-UK residents and overseas directors
Detailed accuracy checks on existing Companies House records
Ongoing compliance support for future filings

Rather than navigating complex regulatory systems alone, Leadforce ensures the process is efficient, compliant and stress-free, allowing business owners to focus on growth.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Companies House personal code?

A Companies House personal code is a unique 11-character alphanumeric identifier issued to an individual once their identity has been successfully verified by Companies House. It confirms that the person holding a key company role—such as a director or Person with Significant Control (PSC)—is real and authorised. The personal code is used when submitting certain filings and updates, helping improve accuracy, accountability and trust across the UK company register.

Who needs a Companies House personal code in the UK?

A Companies House personal code is required for company directors, Persons with Significant Control (PSCs), certain LLP members and Authorised Corporate Service Providers (ACSPs). Both UK residents and overseas individuals holding these roles must comply. Shareholders and company secretaries do not need a personal code unless they also act as a director, PSC or other verified role. The requirement applies to both new and existing appointments.

When will Companies House personal codes become mandatory?

Companies House personal codes become mandatory from 18 November 2025. From this date, new directors and PSCs cannot be appointed without a verified personal code. Existing directors must provide their code with their first confirmation statement after the deadline, while existing PSCs must comply within a specified window. Early verification is strongly advised to avoid rejected filings, compliance warnings or delays to company changes.

How do I get a Companies House personal code?

You can obtain a Companies House personal code by completing identity verification either directly through official GOV.UK systems or via an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP). Verification may be completed online, via the GOV.UK ID Check app, or in person at selected Post Office branches. Once your identity is verified, Companies House issues your personal code electronically, which you should store securely for future filings.

Is a Companies House personal code the same as an authentication code?

No, a Companies House personal code is different from a company authentication code. A personal code identifies and verifies an individual, confirming they are authorised to act in a company role. A company authentication code, on the other hand, relates to a specific company and allows access to its online filing services. Both serve different purposes and are used separately within Companies House systems.

Do overseas directors need a Companies House personal code?

Yes, overseas directors and non-UK residents must obtain a Companies House personal code if they hold a director or PSC role in a UK company. The requirement applies regardless of nationality or residence. Overseas individuals can verify their identity through approved online methods or by using an Authorised Corporate Service Provider. Early preparation is particularly important for international directors to avoid delays caused by documentation or verification issues.

What happens if I do not get a personal code?

If you fail to obtain or use a Companies House personal code when required, your filings may be rejected and your company could be marked as non-compliant. This may result in financial penalties, delays to appointments or structural changes, and potential restrictions on acting as a director. In some cases, non-compliance may be visible on the public register, which can harm business credibility and investor confidence.

Can I use one personal code for multiple companies?

Yes, you only need one Companies House personal code, even if you are involved in multiple companies. The code belongs to you as an individual and can be used across all your directorships, PSC roles and relevant appointments. This simplifies compliance for entrepreneurs, group directors and professionals managing multiple businesses, while ensuring consistent identity verification across the Companies House register.

Can I share my Companies House personal code with others?

You should only share your Companies House personal code with trusted, authorised professionals such as accountants or compliance providers who submit filings on your behalf. It should not be shared publicly or unnecessarily, as it is linked to your verified identity. Treat your personal code with the same level of care as other sensitive business credentials to reduce the risk of misuse or errors.

Does a Companies House personal code expire or need renewal?

A Companies House personal code does not expire and generally only needs to be obtained once. You will continue using the same code for future filings and appointments unless Companies House requires you to re-verify your identity. Re-verification may be requested if personal details change or if there are concerns about accuracy. Keeping your Companies House records up to date helps avoid unnecessary rechecks.

Conclusion: Why the Companies House Personal Code Matters

The Companies House personal code represents a major shift in UK corporate compliance. It enhances transparency, strengthens trust in UK businesses and ensures that individuals behind companies are properly verified.

For directors, PSCs, SMEs and international entrepreneurs, compliance is no longer optional. From 18 November 2025, obtaining and using a personal code is a fundamental requirement for operating a UK business.

By preparing early and working with experienced compliance partners such as Leadforce, businesses can stay compliant, protect their reputation and move forward with confidence.

Explore More Leadforce Services

Leadforce provides expert solutions to help directors, PSCs, entrepreneurs, and international investors comply with Companies House requirements and manage their UK businesses efficiently. Explore our most relevant services for company formation, compliance, and business operations: