What is the PSC Register?
The PSC register — short for Persons with Significant Control — is a public record maintained by Companies House that lists individuals who own or control a UK limited company. It was introduced under the Small Business, Enterprise and Employment Act 2015 and became mandatory for most UK companies in April 2016.
Who is a Person with Significant Control?
A person qualifies as a PSC if they meet one or more of the following conditions:
- They own more than 25% of the company's shares
- They hold more than 25% of voting rights
- They have the right to appoint or remove the majority of directors
- They have the right to exercise, or actually exercise, significant influence or control over the company
- They exercise significant influence or control over a trust or firm that meets one of the above conditions
What Information is Recorded?
For each PSC, the following details are recorded on the public register:
- Full name
- Month and year of birth
- Nationality
- Country of residence
- Service address (a home address can be kept private)
- The nature of their control
- The date they became a PSC
Is the PSC Register Public?
Yes — the PSC register is publicly accessible via Companies House. However, a PSC's full date of birth and home address are not shown publicly. Only the month and year of birth are displayed, and a service address can be used in place of a home address.
How to Protect Your Privacy on the PSC Register
While some information must be public, you can protect your home address by using a professional service address. At Spectre Offices, our director service address packages can be used for your PSC listing, keeping your personal address off the public record.
In exceptional circumstances — such as a risk of violence or intimidation — you can apply to Companies House to have your details protected from public disclosure.
What Happens if You Don't Register a PSC?
Failing to identify and register a PSC is a criminal offence. Both the company and the individual can face fines or prosecution. It is essential that your PSC information is accurate and kept up to date with Companies House.
How to Update Your PSC Information
PSC information must be updated within 14 days of any change occurring, and Companies House must be notified within a further 14 days. This is done via the confirmation statement or by filing a specific PSC form.
Need Help Protecting Your Privacy?
Use a Spectre Offices service address for your PSC listing and keep your home address off the public register. Explore our address packages today.
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