One code for every counterparty
Bank, broker, fund administrator or reporting system: each can verify the same entity in GLEIF instead of interpreting Companies House or the relevant UK register records.
Why it exists
Why a UK entity may need an LEI
A Companies House number identifies a company in the UK; an LEI is the identifier brokers, banks and reporting systems use across markets.
Without one, the file stops
A transaction, report or onboarding file can pause when the counterparty requires an LEI and the UK entity has none.
Lapsed is almost as bad
The characters still exist. Status Lapsed tells counterparties the UK company’s data was not confirmed this year. Renew in time.
It is not a credit rating
It only says which legal person you are, and whether that record is current.
What is an LEI?
It links a UK entity’s registered identity to the public GLEIF index used by financial firms worldwide.
Who needs one in the United Kingdom?
UK entities commonly need an LEI for reportable securities transactions, UK EMIR reporting, funds and institutional finance.
Why you need it
A Companies House number identifies a company in the UK; an LEI is the identifier brokers, banks and reporting systems use across markets.
Do I have to renew?
Yes. Pay once for 1, 3 or 5 years.
So counterparties can identify the correct UK entity.
The LEI is that answer, with a yearly check that the record is still true. 3- and 5-year plans are one payment, so you are not relying on an annual reminder.