One of the first steps in starting an RIA firm is to become properly registered as a Registered Investment Advisor (RIA) firm. The RIA registration process is administered at either the SEC or state jurisdiction level. FINRA does not have any regulatory authority over RIAs, but it does administer the online application system for the registration of RIAs and their investment advisor representatives.
While there are some exceptions, in general, investment advisors who start an RIA firm with $100 million or greater in assets under management (AUM) must register with the SEC as Registered Investment Advisor (RIA). For a list of some of the common exceptions which allow an investment advisor with less than $100 million in AUM to register with the SEC, check out the SEC Investment Advisor Registration Overview.
Exceptions aside, prospective RIA firms who start an RIA with less than $100 million in AUM must generally register with the relevant state(s). In general, an RIA subject to state registration must register in any state in which it has a physical location, a representative physically located there, has 5 or more clients (or a single client in the states of Texas and Louisiana), or is physically soliciting in that state. Do keep in mind that there are some exceptions to these general guidelines. Each state’s registration process is also unique to the individual state. For a directory of each state’s RIA registration requirements, check out the Investment Advisor State Registration Directory.
Note: RIA in a Box LLC is not a law firm, investment advisory firm, or a CPA firm. RIA in a Box LLC does not provide legal advice or opinions to any party or client. You should always consult your relevant regulatory authorities as this information should not be relied upon as currently accurate. This information is provided for educational purposes only and is not an exhaustive list of regulatory requirements.