What is IAPD (Investment Adviser Public Disclosure)?
IAPD is a database that contains information on investment adviser firms that register with the SEC or one or more states. The SEC typically regulates larger investment adviser firms, while the states generally regulate smaller investment adviser firms. IAPD also contains information filed with the states by individuals acting as investment adviser representatives, as well as certain information about broker dealer firms and their representatives.
How do I use IAPD?
The IAPD database can be accessed through our Check Out Your Investment Professional search tool on Investor.gov and directly at www.adviserinfo.sec.gov. To begin using IAPD, you must select to search for an “individual” or a “firm” on the far left hand side. Next, simply type in the name of the individual or firm.
For brokers or brokerage firms that are not also registered as an investment adviser representative or investment adviser firm, you will be given the option to redirect to FINRA’s BrokerCheck system.
What is Form ADV?
Form ADV is the form used by investment advisers to register with both the SEC and state securities authorities. It provides information to help clients and prospective clients evaluate the risks associated with a particular investment adviser, its business practices, and its investment strategies.
What is a Relationship Summary?
Advisers and brokers are required to deliver a relationship summary to you beginning in summer 2020. The relationship summary contains important information about the adviser or broker.
How do I Choose an Investment Professional?
Choosing whether to work with a professional – and deciding which type is best for you – is a very important decision.
How do I submit complaints or questions to the SEC?
If you have a problem with your investments, investment account, or a financial professional, use our investor complaint form to provide us your information. To ask a question or request information, use the investor question form. You can also call our free help line at 1-800-732-0330, or email us at Help@SEC.gov.
How can I learn more?
Check out the rest of the SEC’s website for individual investors, Investor.gov. It has information on getting started, helpful financial tools and calculators, information on investment products, links to our investor alerts and bulletins, and additional resources for groups like teachers and the military.
Your input will help us improve the free tools and resources available on Investor.gov. Click on the button below to provide feedback on this page and your experience checking the background of an investment professional using Investor.gov.
