Source: https://www.quantsurv.com/resources/glossary/fair-payment-code
Content format: Markdown version of the public page.
Content reviewed: 2026-09-30

# Fair Payment Code: definition and example

A voluntary UK code under which businesses commit to paying their suppliers fairly and on time.

By [Jack Butler-Kettle](<https://www.quantsurv.com/about#who-we-are>) · Updated 30 September 2026

Guidance for England and Wales. Check the contract, amendments and facts that apply to your job.

## What it means in practice

Read this alongside [the Fair Payment Code](<https://www.smallbusinesscommissioner.gov.uk/fpc/>).

The Fair Payment Code is a voluntary award scheme administered by the Office of the Small Business Commissioner. Membership is a useful point to investigate, but it does not replace the payment terms of your subcontract or establish that a particular payment will arrive on time.

Check the current award information and your agreed dates separately. [Late payment prevention](<https://www.quantsurv.com/not-paid/services/late-payment-prevention>) concentrates on the application, notice and follow-up routines within your control.

## Worked example

### The facts

A subcontractor sees that a prospective customer displays a payment-code award.

### What happens

1.  It checks the published award information and asks about the proposed payment process.
    
2.  It still reviews the subcontract timetable and the documents needed for each application.
    

### What this shows

A voluntary commitment informs the assessment of a customer; it is not a substitute for workable payment terms.

## Sources

1.  [The Fair Payment Code](<https://www.smallbusinesscommissioner.gov.uk/fpc/>). Office of the Small Business Commissioner.