Time is running out for UK company directors and PSCs. The Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023 brings sweeping changes that will affect how you run your business—and the 18 November 2025 deadline is approaching fast.
The Simple Truth About ECCTA
Starting in November, every company director, person with significant control (PSC), and LLP member in the UK must have their identity verified. No verification means no legal authority to act in your role. It’s that simple.
This affects over 5 million people across the country, making it one of the largest compliance exercises in UK business history.
Who Needs to Act?
If you’re any of the following, you must verify your identity:
- Company director (existing or new)
- Person with Significant Control (PSC)
- LLP member
- Individual representing a legal entity that’s a PSC
There are virtually no exceptions. Even long-standing directors must comply.
Your Three Verification Options
Companies House – Verify directly using their digital platform. Free but requires tech skills.
ACSP Provider – Hire an Authorized Corporate Service Provider to handle it for you. Costs vary.
Your Professional – Use your solicitor or accountant if they’re authorized to verify identities.
More details on navigating these changes are available in this comprehensive guide about Big Shake-Up in Company Law ECCTA, Identity Verification & 5m + people affected https://theedinburghreporter.co.uk/2025/09/big-shake-up-in-company-law-eccta-identity-verification-i-5m-people-affected/.
The Real Problems People Are Facing
Processing delays – As the deadline nears, verification times are increasing dramatically.
Document rejections – Poor quality photos or expired IDs cause instant failures.
Unclear pricing – Many providers don’t advertise fees upfront, leading to surprise costs.
Technical barriers – Digital verification requires specific devices and conditions that not everyone can easily meet.
What If You Miss the Deadline?
The consequences are immediate and severe:
- Can’t file documents with Companies House
- Risk removal from the register
- Company operations may be frozen
- Potential legal penalties
Your business essentially stops functioning if key people aren’t verified.
Act Now, Not Later
Don’t be part of the last-minute stampede. Start your verification process today while providers still have capacity. What takes days now will take weeks or months as November approaches.
ECCTA is transforming UK corporate transparency. Get ahead of the curve and ensure your compliance before it becomes a crisis.
