In short
- Common causes: incomplete verification, margin used by open trades, payment-method rules.
- Ask for the reason in writing and a timescale.
- If unresolved with an FCA broker, use the complaints process and the Financial Ombudsman.
- Being asked to pay a "fee" or "tax" to withdraw is a scam signal.
Legitimate reasons for delays
| Reason | What to do |
|---|---|
| Identity or address checks not complete | Upload the requested documents; ask exactly what's missing |
| Source-of-funds review | Provide bank statements or payslips as asked — required by anti-money-laundering rules |
| Funds used as margin | Close or reduce positions to free up balance |
| "Return to source" rule | Withdrawals usually go back to the card or account you deposited from, in your name |
| Bank processing time | Allow the stated number of working days, especially for international transfers |
Warning signs
- Requests to pay a "release fee", "tax", "insurance" or "anti-money-laundering deposit" before withdrawing
- New conditions appearing every time you ask
- Pressure to keep trading or "upgrade" instead of withdrawing
- Bonus terms that lock your own deposit (bonuses are banned for UK retail CFD clients)
- Support that stops responding
Step-by-step if your withdrawal is stuck
- Check the broker's withdrawal policy and your account status.
- Email support asking for the specific reason and expected date.
- If unresolved, raise a formal complaint. An FCA firm has up to eight weeks to send a final response.
- Escalate to the Financial Ombudsman Service if needed — see how to complain.
- If you suspect fraud, contact your bank and report it — see forex scams.
Offshore brokers
If your account is with an offshore entity, you won't have access to the Financial Ombudsman or the FSCS. Your options depend on that jurisdiction. This is one of the strongest reasons to make sure your account sits with an FCA-authorised company — read FCA vs offshore regulation.
Frequently asked questions
How long should a withdrawal take?
With FCA brokers, card and e-wallet withdrawals typically arrive within a few working days; international bank transfers can take longer. Check your broker's stated processing times.
Can a broker refuse a withdrawal?
An FCA broker can delay a withdrawal to complete identity or anti-money-laundering checks, or if the money is needed as margin for open positions. It shouldn't refuse to return your own available funds without a valid reason.
CFDs and spread bets are complex instruments and come with a high risk of losing money rapidly due to leverage. Most retail investor accounts lose money when trading these products. You should consider whether you understand how they work and whether you can afford to take the high risk of losing your money.