Basics & Definitions
What is it?
What is an LEI number?
A Legal Entity Identifier, or LEI, is a unique 20-character code used to identify legal entities in financial transactions and reporting. It links to ...
What does LEI stand for?
LEI stands for 'Legal Entity Identifier.' It is the standard name for the 20-character code used to identify legal entities in financial markets and r...
Who is responsible for the LEI system globally?
The Global Legal Entity Identifier Foundation (GLEIF) manages the LEI system at the operational level. Public authorities coordinate oversight through...
What is the format of an LEI code?
An LEI is a 20-character alphanumeric code defined by ISO 17442. The first four characters identify the issuing organization, characters 5 through 18 ...
Is an LEI the same as a VAT number?
No. A VAT number is a tax identifier used within a specific jurisdiction. An LEI is a global identifier used in financial reporting and links to a pub...
Is an LEI the same as a company registration number?
No. A company registration number comes from a local business registry. An LEI is an international identifier used across reporting systems, counterpa...
What information is stored in the LEI database?
The LEI record includes Level 1 data and, where available, Level 2 data. Level 1 covers basic identity details such as legal name, address, and regist...
Are LEI codes public information?
Yes. LEI records are public and free to search through the GLEIF index and other LEI data services....
Why was the LEI system created?
The LEI system was created after the 2008 financial crisis, when regulators found it difficult to identify legal entities consistently across trades a...
What is a Local Operating Unit (LOU)?
A Local Operating Unit (LOU) is an organization authorized to issue and manage LEIs. It validates entity data, issues the code, and handles renewals a...
What is GLEIF?
GLEIF stands for the Global Legal Entity Identifier Foundation. It supports the Global LEI Index and coordinates the network of organizations that iss...
Can an individual person get an LEI?
Usually no. LEIs are meant for legal entities, not private individuals. In some jurisdictions, sole traders or similar business forms may qualify if l...
Is an LEI unique to my company?
Yes. An LEI is unique to the legal entity it was assigned to and is not reused for another organization....
Do LEI codes change over time?
The code itself does not change, even if you move to another provider. The reference data attached to it, such as legal name or address, can change an...
What is the difference between Level 1 and Level 2 data?
Level 1 data identifies the entity itself, including name, address, and registration details. Level 2 data describes ownership relationships, includin...