Common CCR009 Reporting Mistakes Motor Dealers Should Avoid

Not Checking RegData Early

Some firms assume they know which FCA returns apply to their business without checking their reporting schedule.

Before preparing a CCR009 return, businesses should confirm:

• That CCR009 applies to their firm
• The reporting period covered
• Submission deadlines
• Any additional FCA reporting obligations

Reviewing your RegData reporting schedule early can help avoid unnecessary surprises later.

Using Incomplete Records

CCR009 relies on accurate business information.

Incomplete records can make it difficult to answer questions relating to:

• Regulated activities
• Finance introductions
• Revenue generated from regulated activities
• Marketing methods
• Staff involved in regulated activities

Maintaining organised records throughout the year can make reporting more accurate and less time-consuming.

Assuming Every Firm Completes the Same CCR009 Return

A common misunderstanding is that every firm completes exactly the same version of CCR009.

In reality, the return contains questions that are tailored to a firm's permissions, activities and business model.

This means that two FCA-authorised motor dealers may not see identical questions within their return.

For this reason, businesses should avoid relying on information provided by other firms and instead focus on their own reporting requirements.

Not Understanding Revenue and Regulated Income Information

Many firms leave financial reviews until shortly before the submission deadline.

CCR009 may include questions relating to revenue generated from regulated activities. Businesses should ensure that relevant financial information is available and that supporting records can be accessed if required.

Keeping revenue information organised throughout the year can help avoid unnecessary delays during the reporting process.

Overlooking Marketing Activity

Some motor dealers focus entirely on finance data and overlook marketing information.

CCR009 may include questions relating to how a business promotes its products and services.

This may include:

• Website marketing
• Social media activity
• Online advertising
• Third-party lead generation
• Traditional advertising methods

Maintaining a record of marketing activity can make reporting more straightforward and help ensure responses are accurate.

Failing to Identify Staff Involved in Regulated Activities

CCR009 may include questions relating to staff involved in consumer credit activities.

Businesses should understand which employees are involved in:

• Finance introductions
• Credit broking activities
• Finance applications
• Other regulated consumer credit activities

Keeping staff records organised can make reporting easier and reduce the risk of inconsistencies.

Failing to Carry Out a Final Review

Many reporting errors occur because information is submitted without a final review.

Before submitting a CCR009 return, businesses should ensure that:

• Information is complete
• Figures are accurate
• Responses are consistent
• Supporting records are available

A final review often identifies simple mistakes that can be corrected before submission.

Assuming CCR009 Is the Same as Other FCA Returns

Some firms mistakenly assume that CCR009 can be completed using the same approach as other FCA regulatory returns.

While there may be similarities between returns, CCR009 has its own reporting requirements and questions. Businesses should ensure they understand the specific information being requested rather than relying on assumptions.

Why Good Preparation Matters

Most CCR009 reporting mistakes are avoidable.

Motor dealers that maintain accurate records, review their FCA reporting obligations regularly and prepare information throughout the year generally find the process much easier.

Good preparation can help:

• Improve reporting accuracy
• Reduce administration
• Save time
• Avoid last-minute pressure
• Make FCA reporting more efficient