> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.fraudcheck.co.za/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.fraudcheck.co.za/product/products/verification/business/principals.md). # Business principals Returns a business's principals, the other companies they are linked to, and adverse observations. Retrieves the directors and principals of a business, the other companies those principals are linked to, and any adverse observations recorded against the business. It is usually run after [Business details](/product/products/verification/business/details.md) to build the full ownership and control picture. {% hint style="info" %} Previously listed as *Business Principal Link*. {% endhint %} ## How it works Each request is checked against the commercial database using the company name or registration number you supply. Results can be retrieved again later. ## What it returns The business's current principals, each with ID number, date of birth and the date the directorship began; the other entities those principals are linked to, with each one's registration status and judgment or adverse counts; and any adverse observations recorded against the business, with source, date and text. ## Inputs required A company name or registration number, and the reason for the enquiry. ## Data source Commercial business database. ## Consent and permissible purpose You must confirm on each request that consent has been obtained. See [Consent and permissible use](/product/overview/how-it-works/consent.md). ## Channels Portal and API. For request and response detail, see the [API reference](https://developer.fraudcheck.co.za/commercial-service/identity/business-principal-link). ## Outcomes The principal and linkage record for the matched business. ## Turnaround Near real-time, typically under 5 seconds. ## When to use it Identifying the directors and beneficial owners of a business, checking what other companies a director is linked to, or retrieving adverse observations recorded at director level. --- # Agent Instructions This documentation is published with GitBook. GitBook is the documentation platform designed so that both humans and AI agents can read, navigate, and reason over technical content effectively. Learn more at gitbook.com. ## Querying This Documentation If you need additional information that is not directly available in this page, you can query the documentation by asking a question. Perform an HTTP GET request on the following URL with the `ask` and `goal` query parameters: ``` GET https://docs.fraudcheck.co.za/product/products/verification/business/principals.md?ask=&goal= ``` `ask` is the immediate question: it should be specific, self-contained, and written in natural language. `goal` is what the user is ultimately trying to achieve, the reason they need the answer. Sharing it helps GitBook give you a better, more relevant answer. A goal is most helpful when it describes the outcome the user wants rather than restating the question. For example, with `ask=how do I create an API token`, a goal like `automate deployments from our CI pipeline` lets GitBook tailor the answer to that use case. The response will contain a direct answer to the question and relevant excerpts and sources from the documentation. Use this mechanism when the answer is not explicitly present in the current page, you need clarification or additional context, or you want to retrieve related documentation sections.