Your Company Isn’t Safe: The New Companies House Enforcement Rules

Summary

The video explains upcoming UK Companies House compliance changes and their practical effects on small businesses. The presenter says identity verification is intended to reduce fraud, but will add administrative work and costs for legitimate companies.

Requirements and consequences

• From 18 November 2025, according to the video, every company director and person with significant control (PSC) must complete identity verification, including people connected to existing companies.
• Verification requires an ID document and a live video check. Once verified, a person receives an 11-digit personal code to use for future filings and to connect their verified identity to each relevant company role.
• The presenter warns that failure to comply, missed filings, or outdated contact details may lead to a company being struck off—even if it is still trading. Assets left in a dissolved company may pass to the Crown under bona vacantia.
• Case example: A director sought help with overdue filings and possible penalties. The company had already been struck off after he missed an annual confirmation statement and had not updated its registered address, so he had not received notices.

Verification options

• Self-service: Use the official GOV.UK One Login or Companies House identity-verification app. Have a passport or driving licence ready. The process includes a live video check and confirmation of personal details. The presenter estimates it takes 5–10 minutes.
• Through an agent: An accountant or other provider can verify someone on their behalf only if it is an authorised corporate service provider (ACSP). This may be convenient but could involve a fee.
• Save the personal code somewhere accessible; it will be needed for future filings.

Fee changes cited

The presenter says that from February 2026, Companies House fees will rise:

• Company incorporation: £50 to £100
• Annual confirmation statement: £34 to £50
• Digital company closure: £33 to £13

The video links the increases to the expanded role of Companies House under the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023. It argues that fixed compliance costs may weigh more heavily on sole-director companies and small businesses than on larger firms with dedicated compliance teams.

Recommended compliance checklist

1. Verify early: Complete the identity check before the next confirmation statement is due.
2. Connect each role: Use the personal code to link the verified identity to every relevant director or PSC role. Encourage fellow directors to do the same.
3. Check the registered office: Ensure it is an appropriate address—not a PO box—and that someone receives and opens the post. Use a suitable service or adviser if needed.
4. Review the Companies House record: Check directors, PSCs, SIC code, registered email address, and filing dates against the company’s actual details. Correct any discrepancies.
5. Use reputable providers: Confirm that any agent is an authorised corporate service provider and operates within the anti-money-laundering regime.
6. Keep records and notices current: The example in the video shows how an outdated address and missed filing can result in a company being struck off without the director realising.

The presenter also raises concerns about privacy and the broader growth of digital identity systems. These concerns are presented as opinion; the practical recommendation is to understand the requirements and maintain accurate company records.

Presenter and sources

Michelle Eames of Helpbox UK says she has worked with UK small businesses as an accountant for more than 15 years. The video discusses Companies House, GOV.UK identity verification, and the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023.