Marvin OnumonuPension Lab has launched what it called the UK’s first instant Letter of Authority (LoA) service, removing the need for client signatures.
The fintech firm said the solution is designed for providers and is based on Criterion’s standards.
It aims to make the LoA process faster and easier by using secure authentication instead of wet or digital signatures.
The new LoA service allows instant verification through modern authentication methods and secure integration.
This removes signature delays and paperwork, with the aim to speed up transfers and client onboarding.
The move comes as the Fix LoA Action Group (FLAG) has continued to highlight frustrations with the LoA process, especially around signatures, and has called for improvements under consumer duty.
Justine Pattullo, chair of the FLAG, said: “It’s madness that in 2025, signatures are still treated as the gold standard when they can be easily replicated and carry real risk.
“This new development is a blueprint for the future: an authority request without ‘letters,’ standards-based, driven by secure integration that speeds transfers, removes friction and keeps clients engaged.
“FLAG continues to push for signatures to be replaced with secure digital authentication, and Pension Lab has proven the industry can make that shift now.”
Scott Phillips, CEO and founder of Pension Lab, said: “We’ve always believed LoAs should be smarter, faster, and better.
“By using Criterion’s standards, we’re showing there’s a provider-ready alternative. Because it’s standards-based, any digital LoA service like Pension Lab’s LoA platform and Origo’s ULoA solution can integrate. And we’ve taken it further by enabling straight-through transfers.
“This is proof that the LoA process doesn’t belong in the dark ages – and what is possible today.”
Pension Lab said the new service is expected to go live with a large master trust in Q4 2025.
