The report is the latest update into the implementation of parts 1 to 3 of the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023 (ECCT Act) which brought about the most significant reforms to UK company law in almost 2 centuries.
From credit to purchasing, the register plays a key role in informing a vast number of business decisions every day. A more accurate and robust register will inform better decision-making, bolstering confidence and supporting growth of the UK economy.
Significant steps to address fraudulent entries and tackle criminal abuse of the register have been taken. Mandatory identity verification has been introduced, misleading information is being removed from the register at scale, and deeper collaboration with partners including HMRC, The Insolvency Service and others is delivering tangible results.
The report reveals that
- since its introduction in November 2025, nearly 4 million individuals have verified their identities and linked their appointments, helping protect businesses and the public from fraud
- since March 2024, 151,000 company addresses have been removed from the register, protecting innocent people from identity hijacking
- collaboration with law enforcement partners has seen millions in suspected criminal proceeds seized
There is more to do, and Companies House is on track to deliver the next phase of reforms. Further identity verification rollout, enhanced transparency of the Register of Overseas Entities, and a more systematic, intelligence-led approach to enforcement are all underway.
This next phase will ensure action remains targeted, proportionate, and effective, supporting legitimate businesses while targeting those who seek to abuse the system. A strengthened register will support growth in the UK economy and further reinforce the value that limited liability brings to businesses.
Andy King, Chief Executive of Companies House, said
This report is another powerful indicator of the progress we are making, and are continuing to make, as we transform from a passive register to a trusted guardian of critical data.
Knowing that the reforms are having a positive impact by protecting people and businesses from harm and helping to tackle criminal misuse of the register is hugely encouraging.
While there is more to do, these reforms are already making a tangible contribution to promoting economic growth by building a register is trusted, transparent and supports a healthy, accountable business environment.
Duncan Beach, Chief Executive at the Insolvency Service, said
Improving the integrity of the Companies House register is central to our enforcement strategy, and the progress set out in this report directly supports our ambition to be recognised as the UK’s leading authority in enforcing corporate and insolvency standards.
A more accurate register strengthens our ability to identify those who abuse the corporate landscape and take robust action against criminals who defraud businesses and taxpayers.
The Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act has given us more than 100 offences to work with, and by deepening our partnership with Companies House, we are ensuring that those who seek to exploit the system face real and meaningful consequences.
Read the full report.
Notes
The third progress report covers the period 1 April 2025 to 31 March 2026 and is presented to Parliament pursuant to section 213(1) of the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023.
Further reports will be published every 12 months until 2030.