Common Problems with Companies House Director Identity Verification – and How ACSPs Provide a Simpler Solution
Verifying your identity as a director (or Person with Significant Control) with Companies House is now mandatory under the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act. Since late 2025, thousands of directors have faced frustration with the direct verification process through GOV.UK One Login.
Many struggle with technical glitches, strict document requirements, and repeated failures. The good news? You don’t have to rely on the direct method. Authorised Corporate Service Providers (ACSPs) offer a faster, more flexible alternative – often accepting a wider range of ID documents and handling complex cases with ease.
At ACSP.VIP, we specialise in seamless identity verification for directors, helping you avoid common pitfalls and get verified quickly.
Common Issues with GOV.UK One Login Director Verification
The direct verification route sounds straightforward: create a GOV.UK One Login, upload photo ID, take selfies, and link to your Companies House record. In practice, many directors encounter these frequent problems:
Mismatched personal details — Small discrepancies in name spelling, date of birth, or former names between Companies House records, your ID, and GOV.UK accounts cause instant failure.
Invalid or expired documents — The system is strict – it primarily accepts current UK biometric passports or UK photocard driving licences. Expired documents, poor-quality photos, or non-biometric passports are often rejected.
Name changes not recognised — If you’ve changed your name (e.g., through marriage or deed poll), the automated system struggles without additional proof.
Technical and account linking problems — Email mismatches across HMRC, Companies House, and One Login accounts, browser/cache issues, or system errors prevent progress.
Limited options for non-UK residents or foreign documents — Directors living abroad or holding only non-UK ID often find the direct process impossible without UK-specific documents.
Repeated failures and frustration — Many users report multiple attempts failing for unclear reasons, leading to delays and stress.
Failing to verify can block filings, trigger penalties, or even make it an offence to act as a director.
How Authorised Corporate Service Providers (ACSPs) Can Help
ACSPs are registered professionals (such as formation agents, accountants, or specialist providers) authorised by Companies House to verify identities on your behalf. Once verified, we provide a unique reference number that links directly to your Companies House record – no GOV.UK One Login required.
Key advantages of using an ACSP:
More flexible verification process → We conduct checks compliant with anti-money laundering standards, often in-person (virtually or physically) or via secure document upload.
Wider range of accepted documents → Unlike the rigid direct method, ACSPs can typically accept alternatives such as:
Foreign passports or national ID cards
Certified copies of birth certificates (with additional proof)
Proof of address via utility bills, bank statements, or council tax documents
Supporting evidence for name changes (e.g., marriage certificate or deed poll)
Expert handling of complex cases → Non-UK residents, name discrepancies, or unusual document situations are our speciality.
Faster resolution → Most verifications complete in minutes, not weeks of trial-and-error.
Secure and compliant → End-to-end encrypted processes ensure your data stays protected.
The cost is modest (£75 + VAT) and saves hours of frustration.
Why Choose ACSP.VIP for Your Director ID Verification?
At ACSP.VIP, we’ve helped hundreds of directors overcome verification hurdles quickly and affordably. Our streamlined online process accepts a broad range of identity documents, and our team provides personalised support for tricky cases.
Whether you’re a UK-based director hitting technical walls or an overseas director with non-UK ID, we make compliance simple.
Ready to get verified without the hassle?
Contact us today or start your verification here. Avoid penalties and keep your company compliant – let us handle the rest.
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