Legl offers two distinct types of verification that are sometimes confused. Identity verification confirms a client's identity by checking their personal details against external databases. Proof of Address verification analyses a submitted document for signs of fraud or tampering, without querying any database. Understanding the difference helps you choose the right check for your clients and set up workflows accordingly.
How identity verification works
When a client completes an Engage request, they fill in the Your details form with their name, date of birth, and current address. Legl uses this information to run a check against third-party databases to confirm their identity.
The check confirms:
The client exists as a real, verifiable person
Their personal details match what is held on record
They live at the address they have declared
Because identity verification relies on database records, it is only available for clients who live in the UK or Australia. For clients based elsewhere, Proof of Address verification is the recommended approach.
How Proof of Address verification works
Proof of Address verification takes a different approach. When a client submits an address document such as a utility bill or bank statement, Legl analyses the document itself for signs of fraud or tampering. No external database is queried during this check.
The check confirms:
The document is authentic and has not been tampered with
The document displays the client's correct name and address
The document meets proof of address requirements for the client's jurisdiction
Because this is a document-level check rather than a database check, it works for clients regardless of where they are based. This makes it particularly useful for international clients who may not appear in local databases.
Important information
Identity verification is only available for clients based in the UK or Australia. For international clients, use Proof of Address verification instead
Identity verification and Proof of Address verification are independent checks. The result of one does not affect the other
Identity verification uses the address your client enters on the Your details form, not a document they submit
Proof of Address verification confirms that a document is genuine and free from tampering. It does not confirm whether the client currently lives at the address shown on the document
Proof of Address verification is supported across 80 or more countries. If a client's country is not supported, Legl collects the document manually at no additional cost to your firm
ℹ️ Further guidance
For more detail on Proof of Address verification, see: