UK finalises BNPL rules for go-live in July 2026

The Financial Conduct Authority has confirmed the rules that will apply to buy-now pay-later providers under a new regulatory regime. UK BNPL providers should begin planning so they are operationally ready to start complying with the rules from 15 July 2026 and, where applicable, take the necessary steps to enter the FCA’s temporary permissions regime.

The FCA consulted last year on draft rules for BNPL, which it calls deferred payment credit (DPC) in line with the relevant legislation. In its policy statement (PS26/1) the FCA now confirms these proposals, with some minor changes.

Changes since CP25/23 include:

• changing what firms need to include in key product information,

• requiring firms to signpost information about free debt advice in certain circumstances, and

• clarifying what information firms should provide to consumers who have missed payments.

The FCA also provides more information about how to take part in the temporary permissions regime (TPR). Firms that were carrying on a DPC activity on 15 July 2025 can notify the FCA of their intention to register for the TPR in a six-week window from 15 May 2026. The FCA will share more details about the notification process in due course.

Firms in the TPR will be able to apply for full authorisation within a six-month window after 15 July 2026. While they are putting together their licence applications, those firms will need to start complying with the FCA’s rules, including general standards like the Consumer Duty.