MONEY · FCA AUTHORISATION EXPLAINED
FCA Authorisation Explained
How to check if a financial firm is regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.
Quick summary
- FCA regulates financial firms in the UK
- Authorised firms must meet conduct rules
- You can check the FCA Register
- Authorisation provides complaint rights
For information only
If a firm offers financial services in the UK, it usually must be authorised or regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). FCA authorisation helps ensure: • Fair treatment of customers • Transparent pricing • Complaint rights • Financial protections This guide explains what FCA authorisation means and how to check it.
What Is the FCA?
The Financial Conduct Authority regulates financial services firms in the UK.
It supervises:
- Banks
- Insurance companies
- Credit providers
- Investment firms
- Mortgage lenders
FCA does not regulate all businesses — only those conducting regulated activities.
FCA website:
Phone: 0800 111 6768
What Does FCA Authorisation Mean?
Authorised firms must:
- Meet capital requirements
- Follow conduct rules
- Treat customers fairly
- Handle complaints properly
They are listed on the FCA Financial Services Register.
Check register:
Why Authorisation Matters
If you use an FCA-authorised firm:
- You can complain to the Financial Ombudsman Service
- You may be protected by FSCS
- Firms must meet disclosure standards
Without FCA authorisation, you may have limited protection.
Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS)
FSCS protects eligible customers if firms fail.
Website:
Phone: 0800 678 1100
Email: enquiries@fscs.org.uk
Coverage varies by product type.
Financial Ombudsman Service
Handles disputes between consumers and regulated firms.
Website:
https://www.financial-ombudsman.org.uk
Phone: 0800 023 4567
Email: complaint.info@financial-ombudsman.org.uk
Red Flags of Unregulated Firms
- Not listed on FCA Register
- Pressure selling
- Guaranteed returns
- Overseas contact details
- Unclear fee structures
Check FCA ScamSmart:
Key takeaways
- FCA authorisation provides consumer protections
- Always check the FCA register before engaging
- Authorisation gives access to Ombudsman and FSCS
- Unregulated firms carry higher risk
Is FCA authorisation mandatory?
For regulated activities, yes.
Can a firm operate without FCA authorisation?
Only if not conducting regulated activities.
Does FCA approval guarantee safety?
No investment is risk-free, but protections apply.
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