The Financial Services Register is a public record maintained by the Financial Conduct Authority listing every firm and individual authorised to provide regulated financial services in the UK. Checking the register before engaging any financial firm is one of the most important steps you can take to protect yourself from unregulated operators and potential fraud.
How to search the FCA register
Go to register.fca.org.uk and enter the firm name, individual name, or FCA reference number in the search box. The register returns all matching authorised firms with their current status, permitted activities, and any restrictions or requirements on their authorisation.
What to look for in the FCA register results
Check that the firm status shows as Authorised (not Formerly Authorised or Appointed Representative for activities outside their permissions). Review the permitted activities to confirm they cover the service you need. Note the firm address and cross-reference it with the address on their website.
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Index Your Firm TodayFCA register vs Companies House — what is the difference
Companies House records all registered UK companies. The FCA register specifically records authorisation to carry out regulated financial activities. A firm can be registered with Companies House without FCA authorisation — but cannot legally provide regulated financial advice without it. The Kaeltripton Financial Index verifies Enhanced listings against both registers.
Warning signs of unregulated firms
Be suspicious of firms that cannot provide an FCA reference number, firms whose FCA status shows as Formerly Authorised, and firms whose registered address differs significantly from their trading address. The FCA maintains a warning list of known unauthorised firms at fca.org.uk/consumers/warning-list.
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Frequently asked questions
Is it illegal to provide financial advice without FCA authorisation?
Yes. Providing regulated financial advice without FCA authorisation is a criminal offence in the UK under the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000.
How often is the FCA register updated?
The FCA register is updated in real time as authorisations are granted, amended, or withdrawn. Always check the register immediately before engaging a firm, not just at the research stage.
What is an Appointed Representative on the FCA register?
An Appointed Representative is a firm that carries out regulated activities under the authorisation of another firm (its principal). They are legitimate but their permissions are limited to those granted by their principal.
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. Always verify regulatory status with official sources before making any financial decision.