In short: Most UK banks and regulated businesses accept a recent utility bill, bank or credit card statement, council tax bill or official government letter showing your name and current address. Each firm sets its own list, so always check what they accept before you send documents.
When you open a business bank account, use an address service or form a company through an agent, you will usually be asked for proof of address. This is part of anti-money laundering (AML) checks that UK regulated businesses must carry out.
There is no single official list that every organisation uses. Each firm decides what it accepts, based on its own risk rules. But most lists look very similar.
Documents that are usually accepted
The document should show your full name and current residential address. Commonly accepted examples include:
- a utility bill (gas, electricity, water, landline or broadband)
- a bank, building society or credit card statement
- a council tax bill for the current year
- a letter from HMRC, the DWP or another government department
- a mortgage statement
- a tenancy agreement from a letting agent or landlord
- a UK photocard driving licence (some firms accept this for address, but not if you also use it as photo ID)
- a solicitor's letter confirming a house purchase
How recent must it be?
Most firms ask for a document dated within the last three months. Annual documents, such as a council tax bill, are usually accepted for the current year. Check the date before you send it. An old bill is the most common reason for a document being rejected.
Documents that are often not accepted
- mobile phone bills (some firms accept them, many do not)
- documents addressed to someone else at the same address
- screenshots or cropped images where details are cut off
- letters with a PO box only
- printouts that do not show the issuer's name or logo
- the same document you have already used as photo ID
Paper or online statements?
Many people no longer receive paper bills. Most firms now accept a PDF statement downloaded from your online account. Some may ask for it to be certified, especially if you are not in the UK.
If you live outside the UK
Directors and shareholders of UK companies can live anywhere in the world. If you live abroad, you can usually provide an equivalent local document, such as a utility bill or bank statement from your country. If it is not in English, you may need a translation. Some firms also ask for documents to be certified by a lawyer or notary.
Proof of address and Companies House identity verification
Since 18 November 2025, every new director and person with significant control must verify their identity with Companies House. This is done through GOV.UK One Login or through an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP), such as Form My Company. Identity verification focuses on photo ID and confirming you are who you say you are. Your company formation agent or bank may still ask for proof of address for their own AML checks.
Proof of address for a business
Sometimes you need to prove a business address rather than a personal one, for example when opening a business bank account. Banks may ask for a lease, a business rates bill, a utility bill in the company's name, or a letter from HMRC or Companies House sent to the company. Your certificate of incorporation shows the registered office, but many banks will not accept it alone as proof that the company actually operates there.
Tips to avoid delays
- Use a document with your full name exactly as on your passport.
- Send a clear, complete copy – all four corners visible.
- Check the date is within the last three months.
- Do not send the same document for both ID and address.
- Ask what the firm accepts before you send anything.
How Form My Company can help
As part of every formation package, we carry out the AML checks and, as a Companies House ACSP, verify each director's and PSC's identity for you, remotely. Live abroad? Our Non-Resident Package sets out which documents we need, and we can arrange Notarised Documents if a bank or authority asks for certified copies.
Frequently asked questions
Is a mobile phone bill acceptable proof of address?
Some firms accept it, but many do not. A utility, bank or council tax document is safer.
How old can my proof of address be?
Most firms want a document dated within the last three months. Annual bills like council tax are usually fine for the current year.
Can I use an online bank statement?
Usually yes. Most firms accept a PDF statement downloaded from your online banking, as long as it shows your name, address and the bank's details.
I live abroad. What can I use?
A local utility bill or bank statement is usually accepted. You may need a translation or a certified copy.