From 2025, Companies House is introducing new Proof of Identity (POI) requirements for all company directors, People with Significant Control (PSC) and anyone who files company information.
While this change aims to increase transparency and reduce fraud, many directors are understandably uneasy about uploading sensitive personal documents such as passports or driving licences directly to Companies House.
Fortunately, there is a safe, simple and professional alternative.
What Is an Approved Corporate Service Provider (ACSP)?
An Approved Corporate Service Provider (ACSP) is an authorised and regulated firm – typically a Chartered Accountant, Solicitor or Company Formation Agent – that is registered with Companies House to carry out identity verification on behalf of directors and shareholders.
ACSPs must meet strict Anti-Money Laundering (AML) supervision standards and maintain robust compliance systems. Only firms that pass these regulatory checks are granted ACSP status.
Once your identity is verified by an ACSP, Companies House will send your Personal Identification Code (PID) securely by post – completing your verification without exposing your documents online.
Why Use an ACSP Like Sterling Finance?
Using an ACSP ensures:
Privacy – your documents stay with a trusted professional, not a public portal.
Compliance – your verification fully meets Companies House and AML regulations.
Convenience – we handle the process quickly and efficiently on your behalf.
Security – your data is stored confidentially for at least seven years as required by law.
There is a modest fee for the verification service – a small investment for peace of mind and full legal compliance.
Sterling Finance (UK) Limited – Your Trusted Verification Partner
As an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP), Sterling Finance (UK) Limited is officially approved by Companies House to verify identity documents for directors and shareholders.
We are a firm of Chartered Certified Accountants, supervised for AML compliance, with over two decades of professional experience helping business owners across the UK stay compliant and protected.
If you prefer a confidential, secure and professional route for Companies House identity verification, we’re here to help.
You need to present 2 documents as explained below.
- 2 photographic identity documents from group A
- 1 photographic identity document from group A, and 1 document from group B
Group A documents are:
Passport or Irish passport card – these can be up to 18 months expired
Identity card with biometric information from the EU, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein
UK biometric residence permit (BRP) – these can be up to 18 months expired
UK biometric residence card (BRC)
UK accredited PASS card
UK or EU driver digital tachograph card
UK, Channel Islands, Isle of Man and EU photocard driving licence (full or provisional)
UK HM Forces ID Card
UK HM Armed Forces Veteran Card
UK Frontier Worker permit
Photographic work permit (government-issued)
Photographic immigration document
Photographic visa
UK, Channel Islands and Isle of Man firearms licence
Another type of photographic ID listed on PRADO (opens in a new tab) – such as a National Identity Card (Pakistan), crew member certificate (South Africa), or Permanent Resident Card (USA).
Group B documents they can provide are:
Birth or adoption certificate
Marriage or civil partnership certificate
Non-photographic immigration document
Non-photographic visa
Non-photographic work permit
Bank or building society statement
UK local authority or social housing rental agreement – this must be for the person’s current address
Mortgage statement – this must be for the person’s current address
UK council tax statement – this must be for the person’s current address
Utility bill – this must be for the person’s current address
Our Contact details are as below.
Tel : 0161 339 4989
Email: info@sterlingfinance.net
Visit: www.sterlingfinance.net