What the New UK Rules Mean for You and Your Company
If you are a company director, shareholder, or person with significant control (PSC), you may have started hearing about ACSP and identity verification at Companies House. These changes affect how companies are registered, updated, and maintained in the UK.
This article explains ACSP in simple, practical terms, what you personally need to do, and how Persona Finance can manage the process for you with minimal disruption.
What Is ACSP (in Simple Terms)?
An ACSP is a professional firm authorised by Companies House to:
- Verify the identity of directors, shareholders, and PSCs
- Submit company filings on your behalf
- Act as a trusted intermediary between you and Companies House
In short, ACSPs replace the informal filing system that existed before. Going forward, Companies House will only accept many filings if they come directly from you or through an ACSP.
Why Is This Change Happening?
The UK government is tightening company rules to:
- Prevent misuse of UK companies
- Reduce fraud and false director details
- Improve trust in the public company register
Previously, company details could be submitted with limited checks. Under the new rules, real people must prove who they are, and professional firms submitting information must be authorised.
Does ACSP Mean I Need to Register Myself?
For most directors and shareholders, the answer is no.
You do not need to become an ACSP unless you are filing information for other people or companies as a service.
However, you will need to verify your identity, either:
- Directly with Companies House, or
- Through an ACSP such as Persona Finance
Who Must Verify Their Identity?
Identity verification applies to:
- Company directors
- People with Significant Control (PSC)
- Anyone submitting filings on behalf of a company
This applies to:
- New companies
- Existing companies (during transition periods)
- UK residents and non-UK residents alike
Without verification, filings may be rejected and appointments may be blocked.
What Does Identity Verification Involve?
Identity verification is designed to be straightforward but secure.
Typically, it includes:
- Uploading a valid passport or identity document
- Confirming personal details
- Completing a digital verification check
Using an ACSP means:
- You avoid navigating Companies House systems yourself
- Your verification is reviewed and handled correctly
- Your records are stored in line with UK compliance rules
What Happens If I Do Nothing?
If identity verification is not completed when required:
- Company filings can be delayed or rejected
- Director appointments may be blocked
- Compliance issues may arise for the company
- Banking, investor, or transaction processes may be affected
Early action avoids last-minute pressure and unnecessary risk.
How ACSPs Protect Directors and Shareholders
Using an ACSP is not only about compliance. It also provides practical protection.
An ACSP:
- Reduces the risk of errors on public records
- Ensures sensitive information is handled securely
- Keeps filings consistent across jurisdictions
- Acts as a buffer between you and regulatory changes
For international directors and shareholders, this support is particularly valuable.
When Do These Rules Take Effect?
The rollout is gradual, but mandatory compliance is approaching.
Key points to know:
- Identity verification is already being introduced
- ACSPs will become mandatory for third-party filings in 2026
- Companies that prepare early will avoid disruption
If you plan company changes, restructures, or new incorporations, these rules will apply.
How Persona Finance Supports You
Persona Finance acts as an Authorised Corporate Service Provider, allowing us to manage compliance while you focus on running your business.
We help directors and shareholders with:
- Identity verification through an authorised process
- Companies House filings handled correctly and on time
- Ongoing compliance monitoring
- Support for UK and international company owners
Our approach is clear, structured, and client-focused, designed to minimise your administrative burden.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do shareholders need identity verification?
Only shareholders who are also PSCs or directors must verify their identity.
I live outside the UK. Does this still apply?
Yes. Non-UK directors and shareholders are included.
Can Persona Finance handle this for me?
Yes. We manage verification and filings as your authorised provider.
Will my personal information be public?
No. Verification data is protected and not displayed publicly.
Final Takeaway for Directors and Shareholders
ACSP rules are about verification, transparency, and protection. While the changes may seem complex, the impact on you can be minimal with the right support.
By working with Persona Finance, you ensure:
- Compliance without confusion
- Accurate company records
- A smoother experience with Companies House
If you would like assistance with identity verification or company compliance under the new ACSP rules, our team is ready to help.
