An institution with the relevant status for issuing electronic money under the applicable framework.
Why the distinction matters
Issuing e-money and providing payment services are related but distinct questions. Describe the customer balance, contractual arrangement and activities before relying on a generic fintech label. Safeguarding and deposit insurance are not interchangeable concepts.
In the working file
Illustrative example
An app displays a balance. The legal nature of that balance must be checked in the product and entity documents, not inferred from the interface.
Use the term in context
Record the legal entity, activity, period and applicable source alongside the term. A familiar label does not remove the need to establish scope. Our operating playbook connects this definition to a practical process.
Read the related playbookSources & scope
Primary sources used for this research edition. Document dates and commencement dates are different fields. Recheck the issuing authority before acting.
- FCA: Payment Services Regulations and Electronic Money RegulationsRegulatory overview · source reviewed 12 November 2026
- FCA: Apply to become an e-money or payment institutionApplication guidance · source reviewed 12 November 2026
- FCA: Payment safeguarding rules changes and FSCS distinctionAnnouncement · source reviewed 12 November 2026