How to Register as an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP)
Guide for accountants, solicitors, and company formation agents to register as an ACSP with Companies House. Required from 18 March 2025.
What You'll Need
- AML supervisory body registration details
- Verified identity with personal code
- Business registration information
- Details of all officers/partners who will file
Step-by-Step Guide
Determine if you need to register
Anyone who files documents with Companies House on behalf of clients must register as an ACSP from 18 March 2025. This includes accountants, solicitors, and formation agents.
- •Filing on behalf of clients = ACSP registration required
- •Filing only for your own company = no registration needed
- •Applies to all third-party filings, not just incorporations
Check you meet the requirements
ACSPs must be registered with a supervisory body for anti-money laundering purposes, such as ICAEW, ACCA, or The Law Society.
- •Must be AML supervised by an approved body
- •Business must be UK-based or have UK presence
- •All relevant staff must have verified identities
Verify your own identity
Before registering as an ACSP, you must verify your own identity through GOV.UK One Login and obtain your personal code.
- •Same identity verification process as directors
- •All partners/directors of the ACSP business must verify
- •Keep your personal code secure
Gather required information
You'll need your AML supervisory body details, business registration information, and details of all relevant officers.
- •Have your AML registration number ready
- •Company registration details if incorporated
- •List of all people who will file on behalf of clients
Submit ACSP registration
Apply through the Companies House online service. You'll need to provide details of your business and AML supervision.
- •Registration opens before 18 March 2025
- •Allow time for processing before the deadline
- •You'll receive confirmation of registration
Set up client verification processes
As an ACSP, you can verify identities on behalf of your clients. Set up processes to do this compliantly.
- •You become responsible for client identity verification
- •Keep records of verification performed
- •Follow AML due diligence requirements
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Waiting until after 18 March 2025 to register
Not verifying your own identity first
Forgetting to register all people who file
Not checking AML supervision is current
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an ACSP and who needs to register as one?
An Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP) is a business registered with Companies House to form companies and file on behalf of clients. Accountants, solicitors, and company formation agents who provide these services must register as an ACSP under the new rules.
What are the requirements to become an ACSP?
You must be supervised by a recognised Anti-Money Laundering (AML) supervisory body, have verified your own identity with Companies House, and meet the fit and proper person test. Your business must also be registered with Companies House and compliant with AML regulations.
How long does ACSP registration take?
The registration process typically takes a few weeks once you have submitted your application and supporting documents. Companies House will review your AML supervision status and identity verification before granting ACSP status. Processing times may vary during peak periods.
What can an ACSP do that a non-registered agent cannot?
Only registered ACSPs can form companies, file documents on behalf of clients, and verify the identity of directors and PSCs who cannot verify online themselves. Non-registered agents will lose the ability to file on behalf of clients once the transition period ends.
Does ACSP registration cost anything?
Companies House has not confirmed a registration fee for ACSPs at the time of writing. However, you must already be paying for AML supervision through your supervisory body, which is an ongoing cost. Check the Companies House website for the latest fee information.
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