Directors warned to verify identities with Companies House following first Insolvency Service prosecutions

Directors are being warned to verify their identities with Companies House or risk prosecution after the Insolvency Service secured its first convictions for these offences.

Three directors were fined at City of London Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday 16 September.

Identity verification is a central part of the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023, which strengthened Companies House powers to improve the accuracy of the company register and tackle the misuse of UK companies for criminal purposes.

Newly appointed directors have been required to verify their identity with Companies House before acting as a director from 18 November 2025.

Existing directors are required to verify during the 12-month transition period, when filing the company’s next confirmation statement, helping to ensure that those who own and control businesses can be identified and held accountable.