Firms whose business activities include providing financial services (such as advising on or arranging investments, mortgages or insurance) must usually be authorised by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), which is a statutory body that regulates the financial services industry in the UK.

This factsheet explains which financial services require authorisation by the FCA and outlines how to apply for authorisation. It covers what firms (including sole traders, partnerships, companies and not-for-profit organisations) must do when they are authorised and explains the enforcement powers of the FCA. It also outlines the role of the Prudential Regulatory Authority.

FCA authorisation is also required by firms that provide credit to consumers. However, this is covered separately in our fact sheet Consumer Credit Authorisation.