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Dikshya Bhatta

Dikshya is an ACCA member who has spent the last couple of years in the parts of accounting where things are rarely as tidy as the textbooks suggest. At FigsFlow, Dikshya writes about accounting, reporting, and compliance in a way that aims to keep things accurate and understandable, ideally without requiring readers to re-check the same paragraph three times.

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Infographic explaining the steps of identity verification through ACSP.

5/14/2025

Identity Verification through ACSP

Identity Verification through ACSP Identity Verification through ACSP What is an ACSP & Why Use One Ways of Identity Verification Online Verification Through GOV.UK One Login Identity Verification through ACSP Procedure of Identity Verification through ACSP Information Collection Completing The Application Form Informing the Person About the Personal Code IDV Standards Set By the Companies House Required Documents Option 1: IDVT (Identification Document Validation Technology) Option 2: Manual Checks (Remote or In Person) Records of the Identity Checks Evidence & Identity Check Risks & Consequences for ACSPs Additional Resources Conclusion Frequently Asked Questions What is identity verification? What is the process of identity verification through ACSP? How do I become an ACSP for Companies House? Do company secretaries have to verify their identity? How do I confirm my identity for Companies House? How much does ACSP identity verification cost? Can I verify my identity without an ACSP? What happens if my ACSP application is rejected? Identity verification is now a legal requirement for directors, Persons with Significant Control (PSCs), and anyone filing on behalf of a company. Companies House made this mandatory on 18 November 2025 to reduce fraud and improve the accuracy of the public register. While verification can be completed through the GOV.UK One Login, many individuals, particularly those based outside the UK or without a UK credit history, choose to verify through an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP). This guide covers the ACSP route in full: the process, the standards, and the consequences of non-compliance. An Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP) is a professional agent registered with Companies House to verify identities on behalf of clients. ACSPs act as trusted intermediaries, ensuring the verification process meets all regulatory standards. To qualify, an ACSP must be supervised by a UK Anti-Money Laundering (AML) supervisory body. This includes HMRC, the Financial Conduct Authority, ICAEW, ACCA, and others. The ACSP must also be registered with Companies House. Before engaging an ACSP, check the Companies House register of ACSPs on GOV.UK. Note that the public list is opt-in, so not every registered ACSP will appear on it. You should also confirm their AML supervisory body registration directly. The main advantage of the ACSP route is that you do not need a GOV.UK One Login, which removes the requirement for UK financial history checks. This makes it particularly useful for non-UK residents or those without an established UK credit history, as well as anyone who prefers to have the process handled professionally. Further reading: Companies House Identity Verification: Who, When, How & Personal Code | FigsFlow Companies House offers two ways to verify your identity: through GOV.UK One Login, or through an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP). This service is free of charge. GOV.UK One Login will ask you a few questions to determine the most suitable verification method for you. Depending on your answers, you will be guided to verify in one of three ways: Via an app By answering security questions online By entering your photo ID details online, then visiting a participating Post Office Once verified, your Companies House personal code will be available in the "Manage account" section of your Companies House account. From 18 November 2025, this code is required for confirmation statement filings, PSC filings, and director appointments. ACSP stands for Authorised Corporate Service Provider , also known as a Companies House authorised agent. Working with an ACSP removes the need to create a GOV.UK One Login account entirely. You provide the required documents and information to your ACSP, and they complete the verification with Companies House on your behalf. The following sections cover the ACSP process in detail, including the standards ACSPs must meet and the consequences of non-compliance. ACSPs act as intermediaries between individuals and Companies House, completing the verification process on their clients' behalf. Companies House sets specific standards that every ACSP must follow. Failure to meet these standards can result in suspension or revocation of ACSP status. Collecting accurate information is the foundation of the process. The ACSP must gather the following from the individual being verified: Full name, date of birth, and home address (extracted from identity documents) A functional, accessible email address. Companies House uses this to send the personal code Identity documents as evidence, stored securely by the ACSP The specific documents required are covered in the IDV Standards section below. While not explicitly required by Companies House, it is strongly recommended that ACSPs complete their own AML due diligence before initiating the Companies House verification. This is a separate obligation and adds an important layer of protection for the firm. Once the information is gathered, the ACSP submits the verification using the GOV.UK service: Tell Companies House you have verified someone's identity . This must be accessed using the GOV.UK One Login credentials used when registering as an ACSP. The form requires: Individual's name, email address, date of birth, and home address Date the identity checks were completed Method used: either IDVT (Identification Document Validation Technology, which validates the cryptographic features of the document) or in-person checks List of documents used Passport details including number, expiry date, and country of issue A declaration confirming compliance with Companies House requirements and the accuracy of all information provided Before submitting, double-check for typographical errors. If an error is discovered after submission, the individual should contact the ACSP directly. The ACSP can then update the verification details with Companies House. This process is now in place following updates to the personal codes guidance. Once verification is complete, Companies House sends the personal code to the email address provided by the ACSP. The ACSP should inform their client of this and advise them to: Check the email address provided was correct Store the code securely, treating it with the same confidentiality as a Unique Taxpayer Reference (UTR) Save the code to a Companies House account for easy future access. Individuals can do this by signing in with the email address to which the code was sent and confirming their verified status An ACSP must exercise heightened caution when conducting identity verification checks for third parties. Strict adherence to Companies House standards is essential. Negligence, such as failing to properly validate documents or overlooking signs of fraud, can result in suspension or revocation of ACSP status. Companies House offers two options for document verification. The option selected determines what documents are acceptable. Option 1 applies only where verification is completed using technology that can validate the cryptographic features of the document. Cryptographic features are security elements embedded in identity documents that confirm the authenticity of the issuing authority. Acceptable documents under Option 1: A biometric or machine-readable passport, or Irish passport card (can be up to six months expired, provided cryptographic features remain valid) A UK, Channel Islands, Isle of Man, or EU photocard driving licence (full or provisional) An identity card with biometric information from the EU, Norway, Iceland, or Liechtenstein A UK Biometric Residence Permit (can be up to 18 months expired) A UK Biometric Residence Card A UK Frontier Worker permit Option 2 applies where documents are checked by a person, either remotely or face to face. Two documents in total are required. The individual must provide either two documents from Group A, or one document from Group A and one from Group B. For non-UK residents, at least one document must be a government-issued document from Group A. Group A (document reference number, expiry date, and country of issue required): A passport or Irish passport card (can be up to 18 months expired) An identity card with biometric information from the EU, Norway, Iceland, or Liechtenstein A UK Biometric Residence Permit (can be up to 18 months expired) A UK Biometric Residence Card A UK-accredited PASS (Proof of Age Standards Scheme) card A UK or EU driver digital tachograph card A UK, Channel Islands, Isle of Man, or EU photocard driving licence (full or provisional) A UK HM Forces ID card A UK HM Armed Forces Veteran Card A UK Frontier Worker permit A government-issued photographic work permit A government-issued photographic immigration document A photographic visa A UK, Channel Islands, or Isle of Man firearms licence Any other photographic ID listed on PRADO (such as a National Identity Card from Pakistan, a crew member certificate from South Africa, or a US Permanent Resident Card) Group B (no document reference number, expiry date, or country of issue required): Birth certificate or adoption certificate Marriage certificate or civil partnership certificate Non-photographic immigration document, visa, or work permit Bank or building society statement UK local authority or social housing rental agreement (must be for the person's current address) Mortgage statement (must be for the person's current address) UK council tax statement (must be for the person's current address) Utility bill (must be for the person's current address) ACSPs must retain all evidence and information used during the verification process for seven years from the date verification is completed. This includes copies of identity documents reviewed, evidence of checks carried out, and records of any unsuccessful verification attempts. Anyone manually checking identity documents must be trained by a specialist provider in accordance with the Home Office's best-practice guidance for detecting fraudulent documents. Documents should be examined for signs of tampering, particularly around areas displaying personal details. Where there is any doubt about a document's authenticity, the ACSP should contact the issuing authority directly. For documents issued outside the UK, concerns should be directed to the relevant embassy. The ACSP must confirm that documents support the individual's name and date of birth. Where IDVT is used, the cryptographic features must match the data provided. A visual match between the individual and their photograph must be established, particularly during remote verification. Where there are gaps in address history or a recent name change, additional documents should be requested to reduce the risk of accepting a synthetic identity. Signs of real-life activity should also be considered, such as recent transactions on a bank statement, utility or council tax bills addressed to the individual's home, or evidence that a passport has been actively used over time. When you take on identity verification work as an ACSP, you are accepting significant responsibility. The consequences of getting it wrong extend well beyond an administrative inconvenience. Loss of Filing Capability Companies House has confirmed that in the future, all agents filing on behalf of clients will need to be registered as an ACSP, though no confirmed date has been announced. If your ACSP status is suspended or revoked due to verification errors, you lose filing capability immediately, affecting your ability to serve clients across the board. Reputational Damage If an ACSP incorrectly verifies someone's identity, that individual must restart the entire process with a different ACSP. This creates frustration for your client and reflects poorly on your firm, often spreading through referral networks quickly. Suspension or Revocation of ACSP Status Under the Registrar (Identity Verification and Authorised Corporate Service Providers) Regulations 2025, Companies House issues a notice of suspension followed by a 28-day period before a formal notice of cessation. During this period, you have the right to object in writing. Errors that put your status at risk include incorrect verification submissions, failure to retain documentation for seven years, and not following prescribed document checking procedures. Anti-Money Laundering Concerns Most directors and PSCs with straightforward circumstances verify directly through GOV.UK One Login. When someone specifically seeks out an ACSP, it is worth asking why. Individuals wishing to conceal their true identity may attempt to exploit the ACSP route. Your existing AML due diligence is your first line of defence. Documentation and Record Keeping Failures You must retain all evidence and information used during verification for seven years from the date of completion. This includes copies of documents reviewed, evidence of checks carried out, and records of unsuccessful attempts. Failure to produce these records when required puts you in breach of your obligations as an ACSP. Everything You Need to Know About Companies House Identity Verification in 24 Minutes : Companies House Identity Verification: Who, When, How & Personal Code | FigsFlow Don't Miss a Single Step with Companies House Identity Verification with Our Comprehensive Companies House Identity Verification Checklist: Companies House Identity Verification Checklist | FigsFlow Here's How You Can Choose the Right Identity Verification Solution: Digital Identity Verification Software Guide | FigsFlow 2025 Guide to AML & Identity Verification Rules for Accountants: 2025 Anti-Money Laundering ID Check Guide for Accountants in UK – FigsFlow Grab the Directors' Identity Verification Engagement Letter Templates for Accountancy Firms Registered As ACSP: Identity Verification Engagement Letter Templates – Accountants Simplify your verification process. Explore FigsFlow's AML software for accountants Learn More Identity verification through an ACSP carries real legal and professional weight. ACSPs must apply consistent due diligence when reviewing documents and make a clear, defensible decision on whether to proceed with each verification. Where there are signs of fraudulent activity or tampered documents, an ACSP has the right to decline the verification. In such cases, the individual must complete the process independently. Importantly, the obligation to retain evidence does not disappear if verification is declined; all related documentation must still be kept for seven years. Done well, ACSP verification gives individuals and organisations confidence that the process has been handled accurately, securely, and in full compliance with Companies House requirements. Simplify Client Identity Verification with FigsFlow Meet Companies House requirements at £2.10 per verification. Automate client invitations, track progress in one dashboard, and stay audit-ready. Purpose-built for regulated UK practices. Explore Identity Verification → Identity verification is the process of confirming an individual's identity by comparing their documents (such as passport, driving licence, or biometric information) against reliable sources. For Companies House, it ensures that directors and PSCs are who they claim to be, reducing fraud and enhancing the accuracy of company information on the register. The ACSP collects your identity documents, examines them for authenticity, and verifies your details match the documents provided. They then submit an application to Companies House on your behalf via GOV.UK One Login. Once approved, Companies House sends a 9-digit personal code to your email, which you'll need for future company filings. To register as an ACSP, sign in to GOV.UK One Login and provide your business details (or details as a sole trader). You'll need to specify which Anti-Money Laundering supervisory body you're registered with and provide your AML membership number. Finally, pay the £55 registration fee to complete your application. From 18 November 2025, directors and PSCs must verify their identity. Company secretaries are not currently required to verify, but Companies House has confirmed that other key company personnel, including secretaries, will need to verify their identity at a later date to be announced. You can verify your identity in two ways: directly through GOV.UK One Login (free, requires UK financial history) or through an Authorised Corporate Service Provider such as an accountant or solicitor. ACSPs verify your documents and submit the application on your behalf, which is particularly useful for non-UK residents. The cost varies depending on the provider you choose. Some ACSPs charge a flat fee per verification, while others include it as part of a broader service package. FigsFlow offers flexible pricing options that integrate identity verification into our comprehensive AML compliance software. Yes, you can verify directly with Companies House through the GOV.UK One Login system or by visiting participating Post Office branches in person. However, not everyone will be able to complete verification through these routes, particularly non-UK residents or those lacking established UK credit history. If your application to become an ACSP is rejected, it is usually because the information you provided does not match the records held by your AML supervisory body. Check your details with your supervisor and resubmit with the correct information, including your proper firm name and reference numbers. Ways of Identity Verification Procedure of Identity Verification through ACSP identity-verification-through-acsp identity verification through acsp page Page

Instructions on how to register as an ACSP with details including application fee and user roles.

3/21/2025

How to Register as an ACSP with Companies House?

How to Register as an ACSP with Companies House? How to Register as an ACSP with Companies House? KEY TAKEAWAYS Who Needs to Register as an ACSP? Legal Requirements and Responsibilities for ACSPs How to Register as an ACSP: Step-by-Step Process Eligibility Requirements: Who Can Apply Verify your Identity Apply to Register as a Companies House Authorised Agent What Happens After Registration: Managing Your ACSP Account Adding and Managing Users to Your ACSP Account Updating Your ACSP Details Closing Your ACSP Registration Helpful Resources to Register as an ACSP with Companies House Conclusion Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) How to register as a corporate service provider? What is the ACSP code? What is the full form of ACSP? What is ACSP status? How much does it cost to register a company in the UK? From legal duties to the step-by-step registration process—here's everything your firm needs to know to become an ACSP. The term ACSP stands for Authorised Corporate Service Providers, also knowns as the Companies House authorised agents, is a new requirement brought by the Companies House wherein the personnel holding a senior position in the business will have to register the business as an ACSP starting from 18th March 2025 with a minimal registration fee of £55 charged by the Companies House. This initiative has been introduced by Companies House to enhance transparency by ensuring that the individuals responsible for filing information on the public register are properly identified, helping to maintain the accuracy of the data held by Companies House and prevent its misuse for fraudulent activities. "ACSP registration opened on 18th March 2025 and currently costs £55. While only mandatory now for firms offering identity verification services, all agents filing on behalf of clients will need to register by spring 2026." "You must be registered with at least one AML supervisory body before applying, and hold a senior role in your firm (director, partner, or equivalent) to complete the registration process." "Identity verification records must be kept for 7 years, and any changes to your firm's details must be reported to Companies House within 14 days—failure to comply can result in fines, criminal prosecution, or loss of ACSP status." "Once registered, you'll receive a unique ACSP number starting with "AP" and can add employees to your account with three role types: Account Owners, Administrators, and Standard Users." "Non-compliance can lead to suspension or termination of your ACSP status, preventing you from filing on behalf of clients and potentially causing reputational damage to your firm." Currently, only agents who are directly involved in verifying the identities of clients with Companies House are required to register. However, Companies House plans to extend this requirement to all agents who file on behalf of their clients. All the agents planning to register themselves as ACSP need to have their AML number in hand before proceeding with registration. Therefore, all agents are expected to be registered with at least one Anti-Money Laundering supervisory body. If any changes occur to the information provided during registration, these must be reported to the Companies House within 14 days. Additionally, upon request of the Companies House, ACSP must provide Companies House with additional information, including records of filings with Companies House, identity checks (if the agent is verifying someone's identity for Companies House), and any other relevant details to demonstrate compliance with legal requirements. The records of the identity check the ACSP conducted should be stored for 7 years from the date of completion of those checks. Records of identity checks conducted by the ACSP must be retained for seven years from the completion date of those checks. Failure to comply with these requirements may result in suspension or termination of the company's authorisation to act as an agent. Furthermore, the director of the company may face a fine or criminal prosecution. Therefore, all officers who have registered their business as an ACSP must be fully aware of the legal obligations and ensure compliance. Now, that we have known about the importance and its requirements for the registration, lets dive into the actual process of registration step by step. To register as an authorised agent with Companies House, you must hold a senior role in the business, such as a director, general partner, partner, or member. Once registered, you can add other employees to the agent account. For a corporate body, you need to be a member if the body is managed by its members, or a director if it is not. For an unincorporated entity, you must be a member if it is managed by its members, or part of the governing body if it isn't. Identity verification is a new legal requirement which aims on minimising fraud and making the Companies House information reliable and transparent. Either a director of the company, person equivalent of a director or a PSC (Person with significant control), needs to verify the identity. Identity verification can be done online through GOV.UK One Login. If you don't already have an account, you will need to create one. Once you have signed up for GOV.UK One Login, visit the Apply to register as a Companies House authorised agent – GOV.UK . On this page, you will find a "Start Now" button, which will direct you to the identity verification process. List of things required for Online Identity verification Proof of identity (Passport, Driving License, UK Biometric Resident Permit, Biometric Residence card, or Frontier Worker Permit) Home address details including the year you started residing at that address Followed by this, Companies House will ask series of security questions in relation to your financial status, bank loan and mortgages, mobile phone contract, current account with UK bank. Once you successfully answer these security questions, the online identity verification will be complete. After the verification is complete, a unique identifier known as a Companies House personal code is generated. You can find this code in the "Manage account" section of your Companies house account. This code will be required for certain company filings, such as the confirmation statement, starting in April 2025. Learn how to manage ACSP access for employees. This code should only be shared with individuals you fully trust to file on your behalf or for your company. It must be kept secure, just like your Unique Taxpayer Reference (UTR) for HMRC. If you do not verify your identity, you will not be able to make filings with Companies House, start a new company or entity, or register your company as an ACSP. Once your identity is verified, you will be redirected to continuing with registering as an Authorised Corporate Service Provider. You will be required to fill in several requirements as listed below in the application: Name of the company Company Number (You can find this in your Companies house portal) Type of Business Services you offer through your business Registered office address Correspondence email address (you can either use the same email address from your GOV.UK One login's credentials or use a different one) AML details- Name of you AML supervisory body and membership number. Once the application is filled you will be able to review you form and make changes to the original entry if any amendments are required. Afterward, click the "Pay Now" button, which will redirect you to the payment page. Upon completing the payment of £55, the application will be submitted to Companies House. After the application is submitted, a confirmation email is sent to your email address which was used for creating the GOV.UK one login stating that the application has been received by the Companies house. Companies house will be sending you an email to confirm acceptance or rejection of the application within 2 working days. They will also state the reasons for rejection, if the application is rejected. After the registration is complete, access can be granted to other employees within the company. These employees will not need to verify their identity, but upon receiving access, they will be able to assist with filings and identity checks for clients. Once your ACSP registration is approved by Companies House, you'll receive your unique ACSP number (starting with "AP") and access to your authorised agent account. This account becomes your central hub for managing users, updating firm details, and accessing services for your clients. After registration, the person who registered the firm can add other employees to the ACSP account. The good news? These additional users won't need to verify their identity separately. When adding users, you can assign them one of three roles based on their responsibilities: Account Owners — Can update the authorised agent's details, add and remove all users, and have full control over the account. Administrators — Can add and remove administrators and standard users but cannot modify the authorised agent's core details. Standard Users — Can access services and file on behalf of clients but cannot add or remove other users from the account. All users added to the account will be able to file on behalf of clients and verify identities for Companies House (if your firm offers this service). You can remove users at any time, and once removed, they immediately lose access to the account and all ACSP services. Companies House requires you to notify them within 14 days of any changes to your firm's information. This is a legal requirement, and failing to comply means your firm could be committing an offence. Changes you must report include: Registration Details — Any updates to your firm's name, registered office address, or correspondence email address. AML Supervision Status — If you're no longer registered with an AML supervisory body or if your supervisory body changes. Company Information — Changes to your company number or business structure. To update your details, an account owner must sign in to the ACSP account and use the "View and update the authorised agent's details" service. This ensures Companies House always has accurate, current information about your firm. If your firm no longer needs to be registered as an authorised agent, an account owner can voluntarily close the ACSP status. This can be done through the "Close the authorised agent" service accessible from your ACSP account. Once closed, your firm will no longer be able to file on behalf of clients or verify identities for Companies House, and all users will lose access to the ACSP account. Here's Everything It Take to Be an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP) for Companies House Identity Verification: How to Become an ACSP for Companies House Identity Verification Here's the Only Reason You Need to Register as an ACSP Now: Register As An ACSP Or Lose Clients! Decide Quickly! A Complete Guide to Identity Verification Through ACSP: Identity Verification Through ACSP Is Now a Business Essential Grab Directors' Identity Verification Templates for Accountancy Firms Registered As an ACSP (It's Free For Now): Identity Verification Engagement Letter Templates – Accountants Here's How Accountants Can Prove & Verify Clients' Identity: Understand How to Prove Identities Under ACSP | FigsFlow Everything Accountancy Practices Need to Know About ACSP Registration: What Do Accountants Need to Know About ACSP Registration | FigsFlow The introduction of the Authorised Corporate Service Providers (ACSP) requirement by Companies House marks a significant step toward increasing transparency and accountability in corporate filings. As Companies House continues to expand the scope of ACSP registration , businesses must stay updated on evolving compliance requirements to avoid disruptions in their corporate filings. Properly navigating this process will not only ensure regulatory compliance but also strengthen business credibility and trust within the corporate landscape. To register as an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP) with Companies House, you must first verify your identity through GOV.UK One Login. You'll need to hold a senior position in your firm (such as director or partner) and be registered with an AML supervisory body. Complete the online application by providing your firm's details, company number, AML membership number, and pay the £55 registration fee. Once approved, you'll receive your ACSP number and account access. The ACSP code is a unique identifier number starting with "AP" that Companies House assigns to your firm after successful registration as an Authorised Corporate Service Provider. This code allows you to access your authorised agent account, manage users, file on behalf of clients, and perform identity verification services. You'll receive this code via email once your application is approved, typically within 2 working days. ACSP stands for Authorised Corporate Service Provider. These are also known as Companies House authorised agents, businesses or individuals registered to file information with Companies House on behalf of their clients and, optionally, verify identities for Companies House purposes. The ACSP system was introduced to enhance transparency and ensure that those responsible for filing company information are properly identified and accountable. Your ACSP status refers to whether your firm is actively registered, suspended, or ceased as an Authorised Corporate Service Provider with Companies House. Active status means you can file on behalf of clients and verify identities. Companies House may suspend your status if you fail to comply with legal requirements, giving you 28 days to provide necessary information. If your status is ceased, you lose all ACSP privileges and your account is closed. Registering as an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP) with Companies House costs £55. This is a one-time registration fee paid during the application process via debit or credit card. Applications are typically processed within 2 working days, after which you'll receive confirmation of approval or rejection. This fee is separate from any costs associated with incorporating a new company or other Companies House services. register as an acsp Identity Verification Complete Register as an ACSP how-to-register-as-an-acsp-with-companies-house how to register as an acsp with companies house page Page

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