Preparing for Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP) Registration
Starting from 25 February 2025, businesses and individuals who conduct anti-money laundering (AML) supervised activities, such as company formation agents, solicitors, accountants, and chartered secretaries, will need to register as Authorised Corporate Service Providers (ACSPs) to carry out identity checks for clients with Companies House.
What Does an ACSP Do?
ACSPs play a crucial role in maintaining financial integrity by conducting identity checks and ensuring compliance with AML regulations. They may also file documents on behalf of clients in the future.
How to Become an ACSP
To qualify as an ACSP, your business must be supervised by one of the 25 AML supervisory bodies in the UK, such as:
- HMRC
- Financial Conduct Authority (FCA)
- The Insolvency Practitioners Association
You can find a full list of supervisory bodies on GOV.UK.
Registering with Companies House
From 25 February 2025, you’ll need to use the new ‘Apply to register as a Companies House authorised agent’ service to become an ACSP. Here’s what you need to know:
- Who should apply? Individuals in senior roles, such as directors or sole traders.
- What’s required?
- Complete identity verification.
- Provide details about the business.
- Pay a £55 registration fee.
- What happens after registration?
- You’ll receive a digital account and unique identity number.
- This will allow you to file information and perform identity checks for your clients.
- Additional team members can be added to the authorised agent account after approval.
Upcoming Guidance
To assist with this transition, Companies House will publish detailed guidance on GOV.UK in early February 2025.
By preparing early and completing your ACSP registration, you can ensure compliance and seamless operations for your business. Stay tuned for further updates from HMRC here.
