ACSP Registered Accountants
for Companies House Identity Verification
ACSP Registered Accountants for Companies House Identity Verification
Ribble Valley Accountants is a fully registered Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP), approved by Companies House to verify the identity of company directors and people with significant control (PSCs). If you need to meet the new Companies House identity verification requirements, we can handle the entire process on your behalf — quickly, securely, and in full compliance with the law.
How Can You Verify Your Identity with Companies House?
There are two ways to complete identity verification:
Option 1 — GOV.UK One Login (Self-Service): You can verify your identity directly through the Companies House service using GOV.UK One Login. This is a free service, but it requires you to have a valid photo ID, a smartphone or webcam, and the ability to navigate the online process yourself. Some people find this straightforward; others find it confusing or encounter technical difficulties.
Option 2 — Through an ACSP (Recommended for Busy Business Owners): You can ask a registered ACSP, such as Ribble Valley Accountants, to verify your identity on your behalf. You simply provide your identity documents to us, we carry out the required checks, and we submit the verification to Companies House. You then receive your unique Companies House personal code, which you use to confirm your identity for each role you hold.
Why Choose Ribble Valley Accountants for Your ACSP Identity Verification?
Many accountants across the UK have not yet registered as ACSPs, which means they cannot legally carry out Companies House identity verification for their clients. We have taken the steps to become fully registered, so you can trust that your verification is being handled by a compliant, authorised professional.
Here is why our clients choose us:
We Are Fully ACSP Registered. We have completed the formal registration process with Companies House and are authorised to verify identities on your behalf. You can check the official list of registered ACSPs on GOV.UK to confirm our status.
We Know Your Business. If you are already a Ribble Valley Accountants client, we may already hold copies of your identity documents from our AML checks, making the process even faster and more straightforward.
We Handle Everything. You do not need to navigate government portals or worry about whether you have the right documents. We guide you through the process from start to finish.
We Are Local. Based in the Ribble Valley, we serve businesses throughout Lancashire and the wider North West. We are a local firm you can speak to directly not a faceless online service.
We Keep Your Records Safe. As required by law, we retain records of all identity checks for seven years, giving you a reliable audit trail.
What Happens During the Identity Verification Process?
The process is simple and straightforward when you work with us:
Step 1 — Get in Touch. Contact us by phone or email to let us know you need identity verification for Companies House. We will confirm what documents you need to provide.
Step 2 — Provide Your Documents. You will need to provide approved identity documents, such as a valid passport or driving licence. We will check these against the required standard.
Step 3 — We Submit to Companies House. We use the official Companies House service to confirm that we have verified your identity to the required standard.
Step 4 — Receive Your Personal Code. Companies House will send your unique 11-character personal code to the email address you provide. You will need this code when filing your next confirmation statement and for any future Companies House filings.
The whole process is typically completed quickly, and we will keep you informed at every stage.
Who Needs This Service?
This service is relevant to you if you are:
A company director of a UK limited company or LLP
A person with significant control (PSC) — for example, someone who owns more than 25% of shares or voting rights in a company
A new director or PSC being appointed to a company after 18 November 2025
An existing director or PSC who has not yet completed identity verification
If you are unsure whether you need to verify your identity, or when your deadline is, get in touch and we will be happy to advise.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to use an ACSP, or can I do it myself?
You can verify your identity yourself for free using GOV.UK One Login. However, many directors and PSCs prefer to use an ACSP to save time and ensure the process is completed correctly. If you already work with us as your accountant, using our ACSP service is the most convenient option.
How much does ACSP identity verification cost?
ACSPs may charge a fee for this service. Please contact us for our current pricing. We aim to keep our fees fair and transparent.
What documents do I need?
You will typically need a valid passport or UK driving licence. We will confirm the exact requirements when you get in touch.
What is a Companies House personal code?
Your personal code is an 11-character unique identifier issued by Companies House once your identity has been verified. You will need to provide this code when filing your company’s confirmation statement and for other Companies House filings.
What if my accountant is not ACSP registered?
If your current accountant has not registered as an ACSP, they cannot legally carry out identity verification for Companies House on your behalf. You are welcome to use our ACSP service even if we are not your primary accountant. Contact us to find out more.
Is it safe to use an ACSP?
Yes. ACSPs are regulated by Companies House and must comply with strict legal requirements. Companies House carries out random compliance checks on ACSPs, and any that fail to meet the required standard are suspended or removed from the register. Using an ACSP is a safe and secure method of verifying your identity.
Get in Touch with Our ACSP Registered Team Today
Do not leave your Companies House identity verification to the last minute. Contact Ribble Valley Accountants today and let our ACSP registered team take care of it for you.