Take your first step toward becoming Directly Authorised with Bankhall and PMS!

Date: 23 July 2025

Author: Sesame Bankhall Group

Thinking about becoming Directly Authorised (DA)? Whether you’re starting out, launching a new firm, or transitioning from an Appointed Representative (AR) model, at Bankhall and PMS, we’re here to help you take that next step with confidence.  

Why go Directly Authorised? 

Becoming DA isn’t just a regulatory shift; it’s a strategic move that unlocks: 

• Full control over your sales journey, choice of systems and compliance frameworks 
• Freedom of choice through access to a broader range of lenders, platforms, and protection products 
• Regulatory ownership to build equity in a business that is truly yours 
• Enhanced brand credibility that customers trust 
• The opportunity to keep more of your earnings without network deductions 

At Bankhall PMS, we’re not just a service provider. We're your Proactive Partner for Life. From your initial FCA application to long-term business growth, we offer end-to-end support tailored to your needs. Our team is all in and will be right there with you, bringing over 30 years of compliance expertise and helping you meet FCA expectations without unnecessary burden. You’ll also gain access to PMS’s full lender panel and protection providers, giving you more control over your revenue and customer earnings.  

No two DA firms are the same, which is why we tailor our support based on your firm’s size, structure, and ambitions. Our approach ensures you receive the right guidance at the right time, so you can stay focused on growth and delivering good customer outcomes. 

Your Route to DA: 

Step 1: Prepare your application – We’ll help you gather and complete all necessary documentation. This is typically a 6–8-week process. 

Step 2: Understand the costs – In addition to the fee for our services, you will also have to pay an FCA application fee. We make sure you understand all the costs involved so there are no surprises. 

Step 3: Meet additional requirements – We’ll guide you through preparing your Professional indemnity insurance, capital adequacy and FCA periodic fees documents.  

Step 4: Engage with us – Once we sign a project agreement, you’ll receive a dedicated Compliance Support Officer, a bespoke FCA application welcome pack, and ongoing guidance and documentation support to ensure your application meets every requirement. 

Step 5: Timeline to Direct Authorisation – From submission to FCA approval, the journey typically spans 16 weeks. We support you through FCA interview prep, SMF 16/17 training, CPD assessments, and regulator communications. 

We’ll remain by your side throughout the whole process and beyond. After approval, we can also be there to support your compliance and business growth.  

Becoming Directly Authorised is a big decision, but you don’t have to take the leap alone. Whether you’re ready to begin or just exploring your options, we’re here to help you build a strategy for success.  

Let’s start your journey together. Get in touch with us today: https://www.bankhall.co.uk/Directly-Authorised