Major reforms to UK company law: What charitable companies need to know

The Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023 (ECCTA) introduces sweeping changes to UK company law, and many of these reforms apply to charitable companies and charities’ trading subsidiary companies as well as commercial entities. From 18 November 2025, mandatory identity verification (IDV) requirements came into force for directors, persons with significant control (PSCs), and other key individuals. These measures aim to strengthen corporate transparency and reduce the risk of fraud and financial crime.

Why this matters for charitable companies

Charitable companies and trading subsidiaries are subject to the same ECCTA requirements as other UK companies. Trustees who act as directors, and any individuals who qualify as PSCs, will need to complete identity verification within specified deadlines. Failure to comply could result in penalties and even disqualification for repeated defaults.

Key changes at a glance

Mandatory Identity Verification (IDV):

• Applies to directors, LLP members, and PSCs.
• Existing individuals have a 12-month transition period starting 18 November 2025.

Companies House personal code:

• Issued after successful IDV; required for certain filings.
• Must be kept secure and treated as personal information.

Future changes:

• Additional ECCTA provisions expected in spring 2026, including IDV for individuals making filings.

Company registers:

• From 18 November 2025, companies no longer need to maintain certain statutory registers locally (e.g., directors, PSCs, secretaries and directors’ residential addresses); instead verified information will be held at Companies House.
• As a reminder, companies limited by guarantee still need to maintain registers of members, and if there are more than 50 members, maintain an index to make it easy to search for a member.    

Next steps for charitable companies (and their trading subsidiaries)

• Ensure you are familiar with the new requirements and relevant deadlines.
• Check IDV deadlines for all roles connected with your charity.
• Complete IDV via GOV.UK One Login or through an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP).
• Keep your Companies House personal code safe and accessible.
• Review your statutory registers and ensure information is up to date. 

Further information 

For a detailed explanation of these changes and practical guidance on compliance, read this comprehensive blog from our corporate team.

If you have any questions please contact Neil Burton or Sarah Williams.