Companies House Personal Code vs Authentication Code: What's the Difference?

Companies House issues both personal codes and authentication codes, and it is important to understand the difference. They serve completely different purposes and are not interchangeable.

The personal code

• What it is: An 11-character alphanumeric code issued to you personally after identity verification
• Who it belongs to: You, as an individual
• What it does: Links your verified identity to your company roles (directorships, PSC positions, LLP memberships)
• How you get it: By completing identity verification through GOV.UK One Login or an ACSP
• When it was introduced: Under ECCTA, from November 2025
• How often you need it: Once per role you hold - provided during confirmation statements and appointments

The authentication code

• What it is: A 6-character alphanumeric code for online company filings
• Who it belongs to: The company, not an individual
• What it does: Authorises the filing of documents through Companies House WebFiling
• How you get it: By registering for WebFiling or requesting it from Companies House
• When it was introduced: It has been in use for many years, predating ECCTA
• How often you need it: Every time you submit an online filing

Do you need both?

If you file documents online for a company, you will need both codes:

• The personal code to confirm your verified identity
• The authentication code to submit the filing

They work together but are separate systems. One proves who you are; the other authorises the company’s filing.

Common mistakes

• Entering your authentication code where your personal code is requested (or vice versa)
• Sharing the company’s authentication code when asked for your personal code
• Assuming that having an authentication code means you have completed identity verification

Get your personal code

If you do not yet have a personal code, start your identity verification with Companies House ID Verification. The service costs £19 per person and provides guided support throughout.