If you have ever spoken to a solicitor about their work, you will know they rarely shy away from billing for their time. For them, tasks like identity checks are just part of the job and part of the invoice.
Accountants, on the other hand, often see things differently. Many already absorb the cost of AML checks as part of “looking after” the client, rather than charging for every compliance task. So when new rules like the Companies House identity verification (IDV) requirement arrive, some firms hesitate. They worry about passing the cost on, even when the work is new, time-consuming, and carries risk.
From 18 November 2025, Companies House will require formal identity verification for all company directors, people with significant control (PSCs) and LLP members. This applies even if you have already verified them for AML. Some firms see this as an extra burden. Others see it as an opportunity to protect their time, cover their costs, and provide clients with a valuable service. Across the country, those who have made the leap are charging between £50 and £400 per verification, and their clients are happy to pay for the peace of mind.
Why Clients Prefer You to Handle IDV
Yes, clients can complete their own verification through GOV.UK or at the Post Office. But for many, that route feels clunky. Progress tracking is minimal, mistakes can cause delays, and missing the verification deadline could mean they cannot file their annual confirmation statement. When you manage it for them, you remove the hassle and give them certainty it will be done right.
How This Adds Real Value
Doing the process yourself means more than just ticking a box. It ensures the right checks are completed, documents are properly validated, and records are stored securely for the required seven years. It also means you can update and strengthen your AML records at the same time, without duplicating effort.
There is another important point. Once an individual is verified with Companies House, that verification follows them for life. Even if they change accountants, your firm’s verification remains on record. You are taking on long-term responsibility for that ID, so it is reasonable to make sure you are compensated for that.
Firmcheck makes the process easier, supporting both biometric and cryptographic checks, plus bulk processing for multiple verifications in one go. For existing clients on the Compliance plan, cryptographic checks are free, which helps keep costs down while protecting your margins.
Thinking About the Cost of Your Team’s Time
Not every ID check takes the same amount of effort. Some clients may only need a quick cryptographic check because you already hold biometric evidence. Others, especially new clients, may require both a biometric and cryptographic check.
The difference in time can be significant. A cryptographic check might take minutes, but adding biometric steps means more client communication, document chasing, and follow-ups.
When deciding what to charge, consider:
- How long each type of check usually takes
- The hourly rate for the staff doing the work
- Extra admin like Companies House submissions and record keeping
- Time spent chasing missing details or correcting errors
By charging based on the time needed, you keep fees fair for clients and sustainable for your firm. Firmcheck speeds the process up further through free cryptographic checks for existing clients and bulk verification. You can even export a report showing the cost per individual check, helping you track profitability and refine pricing.
How to Position It With Clients
Here is a starting point for your client communications:
Subject: Action Required: New Companies House Identity Checks
Hi [Client Name],
From 18 November 2025, Companies House will require formal identity verification for all company directors and people with significant control (PSCs). This is part of new legislation aimed at increasing transparency and reducing economic crime. Even if we have verified your ID before, you will need to complete this process again under the updated rules.
You can do this yourself through GOV.UK or at a Post Office. Alternatively, we can handle the process for you securely and efficiently. You will receive a personalised request to upload your ID, complete a quick facial match, and verify your passport via a secure mobile app.
Our fee is based on the time required to complete your verification. Once complete, we will confirm your verification with Companies House and keep the necessary records for compliance.
Please let us know if you need any further clarification before we proceed.
Kind regards,
[Your Name]
[Firm Name]
Moving Forward Confidently
From March 2025, you can register as an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP) to perform IDV on behalf of your clients. Decide now how you will price it, set up your workflow, and get familiar with the tools that will make it smooth.
This is not the same as your AML checks. It is a separate legal requirement with its own rules, records, and deadlines. By handling it for your clients, you save them stress, keep them compliant, and protect your own time. And just like solicitors, you deserve to be paid for that professional service.
By preparing now, you will head into November ready to deliver this as a service your clients value and confident you are covering both your costs and your responsibilities.
