Companies House Identity Verification

From Autumn 2025, all directors and people with significant control (PSCs) must verify their identity with Companies House. Verification is a new legal requirement being introduced to crack down on the use of companies for illegal purposes as part of the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023.

 

How Can I Verify?

The identity verification process can be done using two methods:

  • You can verify online using a GOV.UK One Login. This can also be done through the GOV.UK app.
  • You can verify in person at a post office. Find more information here.
  • At WKM, we can submit your documents on your behalf as Authorised Corporate Service Providers (ACSP), as we have been verified as Companies House authorised agents.

It is recommended that you verify your identity now. This will allow you to correct any inconsistencies before verification becomes mandatory.

Please note that each director and PSC must verify their identity. We recommend checking the information Companies House currently holds for your company to ensure all individuals are on the register, and that their information (i.e. date of birth) is correct.

 

What Information is Needed for Identity Verification?

The information required for identity verification are as follows:

  • Photo ID (i.e., a biometric passport, UK driving licence, UK biometric residence permit)
  • Your current address
  • The year you moved to your current address

 

What Will Happen Once I am Verified?

Once verified, you will receive a Companies House personal code. The code is for each individual, not the company. From Autumn 2025, you will need to link your identity to your companies using this code. Keep the code secure ready for when this feature is introduced.

 

Why Do I Need to Verify?

Your personal code will be used when filing confirmation statements from Autumn 2025 onwards. It must also be provided if you are appointed as a director, or become a PSC, for another company after verification is made compulsory.

Companies House may strike off a company from its register if the directors/PSCs are not verified. New companies will not be able to register with Companies House until all individuals are verified.

 

If you need any help with your verification, changing details on Companies House, or any other accounting needs, please do not hesitate to contact us.

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HMRC Free Filing Scrapped – What you need to know

From April 2026, both HMRC and Companies House will close their free filing portals for Corporation Tax and accounts. Prepare now to get ahead of the change.

When will the Free Filing Services Close?

The closure of both platforms was announced earlier this month and will take effect from midnight on Tuesday 31st March 2026.

Why are the Free Filing Services Closing?

HMRC have stated the current service they provide does not meet current digital standards. They believe the modernisation of Corporation Tax and accounts filing could improve the accuracy of the returns submitted.

By closing their filing platforms, HMRC and Companies House are encouraging businesses to make the switch to using accounting software. This aligns with the government’s Making Tax Digital (MTD) plans.

How will the Free Filing Closure Affect Me?

If you use either filing platform, you will need to find another method of submission. Submitting the figures using accounting software will bypass the portal and submit the figures directly to HMRC and Companies House. The downside, particularly for smaller businesses, is that most software will charge a subscription fee, adding an additional cost to already increasing overheads.

If you believe this will affect you, please get in touch.

What do I Need to do Before the Services Close?

Before the closure, you must log in to the HMRC online service and save copies of at least the last 3 years of submissions. This must be done before 31st March 2026 as you will be unable to access this information once the platform has closed.

I Need Help with the Switch – What Should I Do?

At WKM Accountancy Services, we are experienced with a variety of accounting software and are happy to help to find the right package for you and your business. If you need advice regarding the upcoming submission changes, or any aspect of your accounts, please do not hesitate to contact us.

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Self-Assessment Deadline 2024

The self-assessment deadline for 2023/24 tax returns will soon be upon us. It is important to know when your information needs to be submitted.

When is the Self-Assessment Deadline?

The deadline for the online submission of self-assessments is 31st January following the tax year. For 2023/24 returns, the deadline is 31st January 2025. This is also the payment deadline. You must ensure the tax return is submitted and paid before midnight to avoid penalties.

How Do I Know to Complete a Self-Assessment?

If you have previously completed a self-assessment, HMRC will notify you if a return is needed for that tax year. If you have met the criteria to complete a self-assessment for the first time, you will need to notify HMRC.

How do I Submit a Self-Assessment?

You can submit self-assessments through the HMRC portal. You will need our Unique Taxpayer Reference (UTR), which you will have received after registering for self-assessment.

If you are working with an accountant, they can submit the return on your behalf. We offer self-assessment services to clients across the UK. You can visit our page to learn more.

How Do I Pay my Self-Assessment Tax?

You can pay your self-assessment tax in a variety of ways. HMRC provide a breakdown of the available methods here.

Some additional methods include paying via your tax code if you are on a payroll, or setting up a payment plan with HMRC.

Most individuals will make two payments a year, known as payments on account.

Is there a Fine for Missing the Deadline?

If you miss the deadline HMRC will issue penalties. Penalties are split into two types: late filing & late payment.

These penalties will increase over time.  Submit and pay before the deadline to avoid additional charges.

I Need Help Preparing my Self-Assessment – Who Can I Talk to?

We understand that self-assessments are an additional task on top of your workload, and that it can be difficult to know what you can claim. If you need assistance to complete your self-assessment tax return, please contact us.

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