• Doing business with the FSA
  • Being regulated
    • Firms Online
      • New users

Information for new users of the firms online system.

Minimum computer requirements

You will need:

• Adobe Acrobat Reader 5.0 or above (you can download this free of charge from www.adobe.co.uk);
• a screen resolution of 1024 x 768;
• Microsoft Internet Explorer version 5.5 or above; and
• a connection to a printer so you can print out hard copies of forms or returns.

For new users: key points to using Firms Online

Important note

It is important for firms to note that the reporting requirements are subject to strict time limits under our rules. If firms do not meet these time limits, they will be charged an administrative fee of £250. If a firm does not submit the information required we may take enforcement action, which can result in a firm losing its permission to carry out regulated activities.

Getting started

When you first log on, please read the basic guide that is available on the secure home page within the system. This provides useful information on how to use Firms Online and how to add and manage additional users. You should also familiarise yourself with the sources of help available to you as described in the Help section.

Reporting schedule

You should regularly review your reporting timetable which is available via 'View Reporting Schedule' on the left-hand menu bar of Firms Online – Regulatory Reporting.

Checking your firm's profile

You are required to check your standing data in the 'Firms Profile' section within Firms Online - Regulatory Transactions system at least once a year. Please remember we will base your firm's tailored returns and regulatory fees on this data.

Submitting a return

To submit a return you must first validate all sections then click 'Submit' on the left of your screen. This will take you to a new window where you can submit all fully validated returns. When we receive your return we will send you an acknowledgement email.

We suggest that you do not leave submitting your return until near the due date as the system will be busier at these times.