How to check whether a UK financial firm is FCA-authorised
A practical guide to searching the FCA Register, matching a legal entity and checking whether its permissions cover the service offered.
This is general consumer education, not legal or financial advice. Rules and register entries can change; check the current official record for the relevant service and jurisdiction.
Start with the legal entity
Ask which legal entity will provide the service and identify its firm reference number (FRN), if one is given. Search the official FCA Register rather than relying on a logo, certificate, or link supplied in an unsolicited message.
Check the activity and restrictions
A register entry is not a blanket permission for every financial activity. Read the firm's status, permissions, restrictions, and any trading names. Confirm that the specific product and customer type fall within the recorded scope.
Match the contact details
Compare the website, phone number, and address on the register with the details you are using. A clone may copy a legitimate firm's name or FRN but use a different domain or contact route. If details do not match, stop and contact the firm using independently sourced register details.
Official sources
- FCA RegisterUK financial regulator
- FCA Financial Services Register guidanceUK financial regulator
These links are starting points for checking current records. Their inclusion is not an endorsement and does not verify a particular company or offer.
Frequently asked questions
Does an FCA register entry guarantee a firm is safe?
No. It is an official record of regulatory status and permissions, not a guarantee of service quality, solvency, or future outcomes.
Can a firm use another firm's FRN?
A copied FRN can appear in impersonation attempts. Match the legal entity and contact details, not just the reference number.