Companies House Woes - Gov.UK One Login - Continued

 I've reached the point where I'm making no progress with Companies House Customer Support. on the lockout of my Digital Id Verification. I've asked Companies House to escalate my complaint to the Head of Operational Delivery for a final internal review.

If that does not resolve the issue, the next step will be escalation to independent adjudicators. If that fails it is then referral to the Ombudsman via my MP.

It appears that this problem is not unique to me, and other people have similar problems.

 Source: perplexity.ai 25^th June 2025

Reported Problems with Companies House Login and ID Verification

There have been multiple reports of issues with the Companies House login and identity verification process, particularly since the introduction of the new GOV.UK One Login system.

Commonly Reported Issues

• Password Reset and Login Failures: Users have experienced difficulties resetting their passwords, even when following the specified criteria (e.g., password length, use of symbols, uppercase and lowercase letters). Some users repeatedly encounter error messages such as "there is a problem" despite meeting all requirements123.

• Technical Errors: Frequent technical issues are reported, including error messages like “An error occurred on client” during login attempts. These errors can persist across multiple browsers and devices23.

• Browser Compatibility: The Companies House website sometimes fails to function correctly on certain browsers, with Chrome being specifically mentioned as problematic. Users have found that switching browsers or devices can sometimes resolve the issue, though this is not always reliable123.

• Account Activation and ID Verification Confusion: New requirements for identity verification and the need to create additional logins (on top of previous Companies House and Government Gateway accounts) have caused confusion. Some users are unsure how to proceed and have reported a lack of clear guidance from Companies House4.

• Third-Party Charges and Workarounds: Due to technical difficulties and unclear instructions, some users have resorted to paying third parties to complete the ID verification process, with fees ranging from £75 to £250. Others have been given unofficial workarounds by Companies House support, such as accessing older login screens to bypass current issues43.

• Delayed or Non-Functional Password Reset Links: Users have reported that password reset links either arrive late or do not work, leading to further frustration and inability to access their accounts3.

• Access and Filing Delays: These login and verification issues have led to delays in accessing important documents and completing required filings, which can have significant business implications3.

Official Guidance and Support

Companies House provides online guidance and suggests:

• Using different browsers and ensuring they are up to date.

• Clearing browser cache and cookies.

• Contacting Companies House support if problems persist.

• For those unable to verify online, in-person verification at a Post Office is available25.

Summary Table of Issues

Issue Type	Description	Reported Solutions
Password/Reset Failures	Passwords meeting criteria still rejected; reset links not working	Try different browsers/devices; contact support123
Technical Errors	Error messages during login or verification	Clear cache/cookies; report to support23
Browser Compatibility	Chrome and others sometimes fail; device-dependent issues	Switch browsers or devices123
ID Verification Confusion	Multiple logins required; unclear instructions	Refer to official guidance; seek support45
Third-Party Fees	Some pay accountants/third parties due to confusion or technical issues	N/A
Filing Delays	Login issues cause delays in document access and submissions	Workarounds; contact support3

Conclusion

There are widespread, documented problems with the Companies House login and ID verification process. These include technical glitches, browser compatibility issues, confusing instructions, and difficulties with password resets and account activation. While Companies House offers some guidance and support, many users find the process frustrating and, in some cases, are forced to seek paid assistance or use unofficial workarounds1243.

1. https://www.reddit.com/r/smallbusinessuk/comments/1l38pz5/anyone_else_having_issues_with_getting_into/

2. https://forbusiness.net/companies-house-login/problems/

3. https://www.accountingweb.co.uk/any-answers/companies-house-log-in-problems

4. https://moneyweek.com/personal-finance/companies-house-id-checks-confusion

5. https://www.gov.uk/guidance/verifying-your-identity-for-companies-house

6. https://identity.company-information.service.gov.uk/identity-verification/direct/has-identity-been-verified

7. https://commonslibrary.parliament.uk/companies-house-faqs-address-fraud-and-correcting-the-register/

8. https://www.gov.uk/guidance/verify-your-identity-for-companies-house

9. https://jakelee.co.uk/verifying-identity-on-companies-house-with-one-login/

10. https://ewf.companieshouse.gov.uk/help/en/stdwf/faqHelp.html