Will you introduce me to FCA‑authorised lenders or brokers?
The short answer and what “FCA‑authorised” means
Yes — where authorisation is required, we will introduce you only to FCA‑authorised providers or their appointed representatives with the correct permissions. We act as an independent introducer and do not offer loans or financial advice. Our role is to match your enquiry to suitably regulated lenders and brokers where relevant.
When FCA authorisation applies
Many commercial finance activities are regulated, including consumer credit broking for sole traders and partnerships of three or fewer, as well as certain debt‑related services. Some business‑only lending to limited companies and LLPs can fall outside consumer credit regulation, depending on the product and circumstances. Where a product or activity is within the FCA’s perimeter, we introduce you to firms that are FCA‑authorised or appropriately appointed representatives.
What “authorised” covers in practice
Authorised firms hold permissions for the specific activities they carry out, such as credit broking, lending, debt counselling, debt adjusting, insurance distribution, or payment services. The permissions held must fit the activity you are being offered. You can verify these permissions on the FCA Financial Services Register.
Clear, fair and not misleading
We are not regulated by the FCA, but we voluntarily follow the FCA’s “clear, fair and not misleading” standard in our communications. We avoid unrealistic claims, explain key limitations, and signpost risks and eligibility factors. This helps you make informed decisions with confidence.
Introductions are free and without obligation. You remain in full control of whether you proceed.
How our matching and verification work
Our provider checks and ongoing monitoring
We work with a curated network of UK lenders and brokers who are active in specific sectors and product types. Before we introduce you, we consider your business profile, funding purpose, and typical eligibility criteria. Where authorisation is required, we ensure partners are FCA‑authorised or operate as appointed representatives of authorised firms.
How we decide who to introduce you to
Our AI‑driven process helps identify a shortlist of providers aligned to your sector and needs. We consider factors such as time in business, turnover, credit profile, security available, and speed requirements. This reduces wasted enquiries and connects you with providers more likely to help.
How you can verify FCA status yourself
You can validate any broker or lender we introduce by checking the FCA Financial Services Register. It is quick and transparent, and we encourage you to do so. Here is a simple approach you can follow.
Steps to check the FCA Register
- Visit the official FCA Register at https://register.fca.org.uk/
- Enter the firm’s name or FRN (Firm Reference Number) shared by the provider.
- Confirm the firm’s status is “Authorised” or “Appointed Representative”.
- Check the firm’s permissions match the activity proposed to you.
- Review any trading names, principal firms (if AR), and contact details.
- If anything looks unclear, ask the firm for written clarification.
This check gives you assurance on the firm’s regulatory status. We can also re‑supply details on request.
We aim to keep our network up to date as markets change. Providers can be added or removed based on performance, service quality, or regulatory updates.
What happens after an introduction
Your relationship is with the provider
Once we introduce you, communications and any agreement are between you and the provider. They will present terms, fees, risks, and the regulatory basis of the product or service. You decide whether to proceed, request alternatives, or decline.
We do not provide advice or offer credit
Best Business Loans does not lend, underwrite, or provide financial advice. We introduce you to relevant providers for your business needs. Any recommendations or quotations you receive come directly from the provider.
Pricing, fees and commissions
Providers will outline any fees or charges before you agree to proceed. We may receive an introducer fee or commission from the provider if you complete, which helps fund our service. This does not change the price you pay to the provider.
What a provider may ask for
- Company details, director information, and trading history
- Management accounts, bank statements, and existing finance details
- Purpose of funding and security available, if applicable
Sharing accurate information speeds decisions and helps obtain suitable offers. Providers may run credit and fraud checks in line with their policies.
If you operate in a sector such as hospitality, you may see providers who specialise in your field. For example, see our guide to restaurant business finance options for sector‑specific considerations.
Compliance notes, risks and eligibility
Business‑only credit vs consumer credit
Credit agreements for limited companies and some partnerships can be outside CONC (Consumer Credit) rules. However, many activities remain regulated, especially where individuals or small partnerships are involved. We default to introductions that meet regulatory requirements for the activity in question.
Risk, security and affordability
All finance carries risk and is subject to status, affordability, and provider underwriting. Security or a personal guarantee may be required, and missed payments can affect your credit rating and lead to asset repossession. Always assess whether the repayments fit your cash flow.
Clarity in communications
We aim to be clear about what we do and do not do. You will receive the provider’s full terms and pre‑contract information before you commit. Ask questions if anything needs clarifying.
Complaints and recourse
If you have a complaint about a provider, raise it with them first via their published process. If the activity is regulated and unresolved, you may be able to escalate to the Financial Ombudsman Service. We also welcome feedback about your experience with our introductions.
We take data privacy seriously and share your details only with relevant providers aligned to your enquiry. Your information is handled securely and confidentially.
Quick answers, next steps and key takeaways
Direct answer recap
Where authorisation is required, we introduce you to FCA‑authorised lenders and brokers or appointed representatives with appropriate permissions. Our platform shortlists providers based on your business profile and funding needs. You remain in control of any decision to proceed.
How to get started
- Complete our Quick Quote form with details about your business and funding goals.
- We match your enquiry to suitable providers in our network.
- You review introductions, compare options, and choose your next step.
It is free to submit your enquiry and there is no obligation. You can stop at any point if the options are not right for you.
Helpful reminders
- Check the FCA Register for any firm proposing regulated activity.
- Read all terms including fees, security, and early settlement conditions.
- Consider cash flow and downside risks before committing.
Key takeaways
- We do not lend or advise; we introduce you to suitable finance providers.
- Where regulation applies, introductions are to FCA‑authorised firms or appointed representatives.
- Introductions are free, transparent, and without obligation to proceed.
- Verify provider status on the FCA Register and review your terms carefully.
- Your final agreement is with the provider, subject to status and underwriting.
Ready to explore your options with confidence? Start with a quick, no‑obligation eligibility check today.
About Best Business Loans
BestBusinessLoans.ai is an independent UK introducer that uses AI‑driven matching to help established businesses find suitable finance providers. We partner with a network of lenders and brokers across asset finance, invoice finance, working capital, vehicle and equipment funding, and more. We are committed to transparent, people‑first information that helps you make better funding decisions.
Important information
We are not FCA‑authorised and do not provide financial advice. Eligibility, rates and terms depend on your circumstances and the provider’s assessment. Security or guarantees may be required, and late or missed payments can impact your credit profile and may result in asset repossession.
Updated: October 2025
FAQs
Will you introduce me to FCA‑authorised lenders or brokers?
Yes. Where an introduction relates to a regulated activity, we introduce only to FCA‑authorised firms or appointed representatives with suitable permissions. For unregulated business‑only products, we still favour established, reputable providers.
How can I check if a provider is FCA‑authorised?
Search the FCA Financial Services Register by firm name or FRN and review the status and permissions. Confirm that the activity you are being offered fits their permissions.
Do you charge me for introductions?
No, submitting a Quick Quote is free and without obligation. We may receive an introducer fee or commission from the provider if you proceed.
Are all business finance products regulated by the FCA?
No, some business‑only credit for companies can be outside consumer credit regulation. However, many activities remain regulated, and we introduce you to appropriately authorised firms where regulation applies.
Will an introduction affect my credit score?
An introduction does not affect your credit score. Providers may perform credit checks as part of their assessment, which can impact your credit file depending on the type of search.