Discover the core of what is included in the price of a lei number beyond just issuance. Check for application help, support, and data maintenance. Buying an LEI is not simply paying for a code. You purchase a verified, globally recognized identity record that regulators, banks, and counterparties rely on. The price should clearly show what is covered, what is optional, and what happens after the first year.
The core of what you pay for
Every LEI is issued and managed through the Global LEI System under GLEIF oversight. Your fee covers creating or renewing your identifier and keeping its reference data accurate for the term. This fee includes the fixed GLEIF levy (currently USD 11), which most providers incorporate into their advertised price. Data validation is built in. The issuer confirms your entity’s legal name, registration number, registered office, and parent relationships (when needed) against official records. This check makes the code trustworthy for counterparties. Once approved, your LEI is added to the public GLEIF database. Renewal confirms and updates this record for another year.
After establishing your LEI, you receive service support that typically includes:
- Application help: Ongoing guidance until GLEIF accepts or rejects your application.
- Support channels: Assistance by phone or email, usually available during business hours.
- Data maintenance: Free updates to your LEI details when your legal entity information changes.
- Transfers: Moving your existing LEI from another provider is generally free.
- Portal access: An online dashboard to track status, manage renewals, and download records.
Different issuers may use varied phrasing for these features, but the scope is essentially the same.
What is usually not in the sticker price
Quoted fees usually exclude VAT or GST, which will be added at checkout. Extras such as fast-track handling and printed certificates come with small added costs. These are optional services, not requirements for an LEI. If your entity structure is complex or you require certified registry extracts, the issuer may request additional documentation at your expense. Also, legal or tax advice is not part of the product; issuers help with the process but do not offer guidance on regulatory obligations.
Common exclusions at a glance:
- GST or VAT
- Expedited processing
- Printed or PDF certificate with branding
- Apostille or notarization of documents
- Formal legal advice
First year, renewal and multi‑year options
Initial issuance costs are similar to or slightly higher than renewal fees. The first year fee covers both creation and the annual validation cycle. In later years, you primarily pay for the continued verification and publication of your data. Many providers offer 3- or 5-year plans. You make one payment, and the issuer renews your LEI on schedule, reducing the average annual cost compared to a yearly fee. These plans are useful if you want to avoid delays that could affect trades or onboarding. Auto‑renewal is common. Providers remind you in advance, then charge your stored card or issue an invoice if you do not opt out. If your organization manages many LEIs, ask about bulk arrangements or whether a single contract can cover them all.
What “free updates” actually mean
The LEI record is designed to match official company information. When your company changes its name, address, directors, or registration status, your LEI should be updated. In standard offerings, the issuer performs these updates at no extra cost when you notify them and provide the necessary evidence. This means you can update typos in your legal name, change your registered office or headquarters address, record a merger, acquisition or dissolution, and adjust details for direct or ultimate parent companies. If an update requires an official document that incurs a fee from the local registry, you cover that cost.
A quick reference table
Item
Included in standard price?
LEI issuance or renewal (1 year)
Yes
GLEIF levy
Yes
Data verification and publication
Yes
Application assistance
Yes
Phone and email support
Yes
Entity data updates during the term
Yes
Transfer of an existing LEI
Usually yes
Auto‑renewal option
Usually yes
Multi‑year prepayment discounts
Often available
Taxes (GST/VAT)
Added at checkout
Printed certificate
Often extra
Expedited or priority processing
Often extra
Legal or regulatory advice
Not included
What to check before you pay
Confirm that the displayed fee includes the GLEIF component. Reputable providers make this clear. If the price seems unusually low, check whether an extra GLEIF levy or card fee appears later. Get details about the support you will receive. Ask for hours of availability, response times, and whether the same level of-assistance covers both new applications and renewals. If your team prefers phone support, ensure it is offered at no extra cost. Review the update policy carefully. “Free updates” should apply throughout your paid term rather than only at the time of renewal. If your entity has parent companies, clarify how the relationship data is checked and whether additional documentation might be needed. If timing is critical, ask for a realistic estimate of the turnaround time from complete submission to publication. For a rush option, request clear details on the expedited timeline. For multi‑year plans, ensure the provider renews your LEI each year and notifies you if any issues arise—such as registry changes that require your attention.
Australian pricing and where to view it
Australian organizations typically work in AUD and need clarity on GST and the GLEIF levy. Detailed pricing pages that show the full cost, covered term, and support options simplify the procurement process. Visit LEI Service Australia’s pricing for clear rates and inclusions. The page shows the GLEIF fee, unlimited phone and email support, application assistance until GLEIF responds, and free updates when your company details change. If you manage multiple entities in Australia and overseas, consider a multi‑year plan or a consolidated renewal cycle to reduce administrative tasks. Ask for a single invoice, confirm the tax treatment, and keep your records consistent with ASIC or the relevant registry so that updates are straightforward.