Companies House Update: What Businesses Need to Know in 2026

What’s Happening

Companies House has now finalised its transition over to GOV.UK One Login across their core filing services. Since 13^th October 2025, WebFiling users must sign in through the One Login portal rather than the dated Government Gateway.

Alongside this major shift, mandatory identity verification for directors, Persons with Significant Control (PSCs) and certain other positions commenced on 18^th November 2025. Through 2026, Companies House continues to enrol officers onto the programme and enforce the new verification standards.

These changes form a part of the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency reforms, designed to reinforce the accuracy and security of the corporate register.

Why It Matters

This new system will affect how every company in the UK files, updates records and appoints new officers. Businesses now face:

• Higher standards for security via two-factor authentication (2FA) and centralised access
• Stricter identity requirements for directors, PSCs and LLP members
• Tighter restrictions on who’s able to file on behalf of a company
• More detailed checks before new appointments or filings can be accepted

Companies that haven’t fully transitioned yet may find themselves unable to submit statutory documents, update company details or appoint directors until these requirements are adhered to. In some cases, continued failure to verify identity can lead to compliance notices, delays or potential penalties.

How It Works

GOV.UK One Login

Since the transition in October 2025, all WebFiling users must:

• Sign in via GOV.UK One Login
• Link their Companies House profile to their One Login account
• Have a unique email address and log in for each user (shared log ins are no longer permissible)
• Provide the company authentication code, when required, to confirm authority to file

This amalgamated login now supports multiple government services, meaning that users no longer have to try and maintain numerous usernames or passwords.

Identity Verification

Introduced in November 2025 and continuing through 2026:

• New directors or PSCs are required to verify their identity before Companies House will register their appointment
• Existing directors and PSCs must complete verification on or before their next confirmation statement filing date or within the transition period presented by Companies House
• Verification is completed either:
  • Directly through GOV.UK One Login, or
  • Via an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP) such as an accountant or solicitor
• Once verification process has been complete, individuals receive a personalised code used to link them to any company roles they hold

Companies House is pursuing companies throughout 2026 who’s verification status remains outstanding.

Who’s Affected

These changes apply to:

• All companies using WebFiling
• All directors, including those overseas
• All Persons with Significant Control (PSCs)
• LLP members and other relevant officers
• Agents who file on behalf of clients, depending on filing type and ACSP requirements

Any business appointing new officers in 2026 must ensure that the identification verification process takes place before Companies House will accept the appointment.

When It Applies

• Since 13 October 2025 – One Login required for WebFiling
• Since 18 November 2025 – Identity verification required for all new and existing directors and PSCs
• Throughout 2026 – Transition period for verifying existing officers before their next confirmation statement
• Ongoing – Companies House continues to expand the range of filings that require verified individuals or agents

How DSK Can Help

At DSK, we’re here to support companies throughout the transition period in order to ensure filings remain compliant. We can help you:

• Review and alter your Companies House login arrangements so the right people have access to the One Login portal
• Complete identity verification for directors and PSCs utilising our status as an authorised agent
• Manage authentication and personal verification codes
• Prepare filings that require verified individuals
• Keep track of compliance deadlines linked to confirmation statements and upcoming identity-check requirements
• Advise on director and PSC appointments to avoid unnecessary delays caused by verification issues

These reforms represent one of the most significant modernisations of the UK corporate register. With the correct preparation and legal support, businesses can adhere to the new standards and maintain filing accuracy going forward.