# How does FSCS banking licence grouping work?

> Quick answer · Last updated 4 July 2026

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## In short

FSCS protects up to £85,000 per person per banking licence — not per brand. Several familiar names can share one licence, so splitting money across them does not increase your cover. Check the FCA register to see which brands sit under the same authorisation.

The Financial Services Compensation Scheme pays out up to £85,000 per eligible person if a UK-authorised bank, building society or credit union fails. The limit applies per banking licence, not per trading name. Several consumer-facing brands can operate under a single licence, meaning your combined balances across those brands count as one pot for FSCS purposes.

Before parking large sums, search the FCA Financial Services Register for each brand's authorisation number. If two accounts show the same firm reference number or sit under the same parent banking group licence, only £85,000 of your total across them is protected. Joint accounts receive up to £170,000 because each named holder has their own £85,000 limit.

Temporary high balances — for example after selling a home or receiving an inheritance — can qualify for extra FSCS cover for up to six months on amounts above £85,000, subject to rules on the source of the money. Spreading cash across genuinely separate licences is the simplest way to stay within protection limits without relying on temporary cover.

## Related

- [How FSCS licence grouping works](https://moneyguide.org.uk/answers/how-does-fscs-banking-licence-grouping-work/)
- [FSCS deposit protection guide](https://moneyguide.org.uk/banking/fscs-deposit-protection/)

## Primary source

fscs.org.uk/protected/banking

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Independent UK money guidance from [Money Guide](https://moneyguide.org.uk). Information only — not regulated financial advice.