How to Register as an Investment Advisor in Washington

• FINRA Entitlement Paperwork: To initiate the process of becoming a registered investment advisor in Washington, individuals must first apply to the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA) to create an account (Entitlement) for their WebCRD/IARD online system (the web application for the registration of RIA and its representatives). FINRA does not regulate or supervise RIAs, but the State of Washington uses FINRA’s WebCRD/IARD system to process applications.

• Form ADV Part 1: Electronically file Form ADV through IARD. Form ADV Part 1 discloses information about the RIA, including its ownership structure, client base, operational practices, any disciplinary incidents involving the advisor or their employees, and affiliations. This form acts as the online portal for submitting additional documentation within the system.

• Form ADV Part 2A: Detail your RIA’s fee structure, services, disciplinary disclosures, and other firm information in Form ADV Part 2A. Form ADV Part 2A is also known as the Firm’s Disclosure Brochure.

• Form ADV Part 2B: Form ADV Part 2B provides information about the advisor, such as their education, employment history, potential conflicts of interest, and any disciplinary actions.

• Minimum Net Capital for most advisers: According to State Code, "(1) If you are an investment adviser registered or required to be registered under RCW 21.20.040, who has custody of client funds or securities, you must maintain at all times a minimum net worth of $35,000 unless provided otherwise in this chapter. If you are an investment adviser registered or required to be registered under RCW 21.20.040, who has discretionary authority over client funds or securities, but does not have custody of client funds or securities, you must maintain at all times a minimum net worth of $10,000. (2) If you are an investment adviser registered or required to be registered under RCW 21.20.040 who has custody or discretionary authority over client funds or securities, but does not meet the minimum net worth requirements in subsection (1) of this section you must maintain a bond in the amount of the net worth deficiency rounded up to the nearest $5,000. Any bond required by this section must be in the form determined by the director, issued by a company qualified to do business in this state, and must be subject to the claims of all clients of the investment adviser regardless of the clients' states of residence. (3) If you are an investment adviser registered or required to be registered under RCW 21.20.040, you must maintain at all times a positive net worth." Source

• Surety Bonds: Required if advisor falls below minimum net capital requirement and has discretionary authority

• Fees: Submit a $160 fee for the firm's registration through FINRA IARD.

Disclaimer: This website offers general information and is not tailored to address individual business transactions or legal matters. It does not constitute legal advice and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional legal guidance. While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, we cannot guarantee its absolute accuracy or currency. Errors may occur, and laws may change over time. If you have any questions, please contact a Success Strategist.