How to register for the FCA RegData system

RegData is the mandatory online portal used by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) to collect regulatory data from firms. Setting up your account correctly is vital for maintaining your authorised status, as it allows you to view your reporting schedule, submit required returns, and avoid the automatic £250 late-filing administrative fees.

Prepare your information

Before you begin the registration process, ensure you have the following details to hand. This will make the process much smoother and prevent the session from timing out:

• Firm Reference Number (FRN): This is the unique six or seven-digit number assigned to your firm by the FCA.
• Principal User Details: You need the name, business email address, and contact number for the person who will be the "Principal User."
• Authorisation Status: Ensure your firm is already authorised or has been invited to register as part of the application process.

Steps to register

1. Access the RegData Portal: Visit the official FCA website and navigate to the RegData login/registration page.
2. Select 'Register': Choose the option for new firms. You will be prompted to enter your FRN and your firm's name to link the account to your regulatory record.
3. Set up the Principal User: Every firm must have a Principal User. This individual has the authority to create other users, submit data, and manage the firm's profile. Enter their details carefully; it is usually best for this to be the business owner or the person responsible for compliance.
4. Create Login Credentials: Set up a secure password and answer the mandatory security questions. The FCA uses multi-factor authentication, so you may need to register a mobile device or email for one-time passcodes.
5. Verify the Account: You will receive a verification email. Click the link within the email to activate your account and gain access to your dashboard.

Managing your submissions

Once registered, your primary focus should be the Reporting Schedule. This dashboard lists every regulatory return your firm is required to submit throughout the year, along with the specific "Due Date" and the "Period End Date."

Feature	Purpose
Reporting Schedule	Shows exactly what you need to file and when.
User Management	Allows the Principal User to add staff or external compliance consultants.
Submission History	A record of all previously filed returns for your audit trail.

Best practices for RegData

• Don't wait for reminders: While the FCA may send email alerts, the legal responsibility to file on time rests with you. Check your schedule at the start of every month.
• File 'Nil' returns: If you haven't traded or have no data for a specific period, you must still log in and submit a "nil" return. Failing to do so still triggers a late fee.
• Update Principal User details: If the person acting as your Principal User leaves the business, you must update this immediately. If you lose access to the Principal User account, regaining entry via the FCA helpdesk can be a lengthy process.

A note on penalties: The FCA is very strict regarding deadlines. Late submissions usually result in an automatic £250 fine, and repeated failures to report can lead to the FCA cancelling your firm's authorisation entirely.