Find out if you currently qualify as an accredited investor, and explore the SEC's proposed new pathways—including certain professional credentials and a FINRA exam.
Accredited investor status can open doors to certain private-market opportunities. Discover the investment categories, understand the trade-offs, and decide what interests you.
Explore funds and syndications investing in commercial properties.
Learn how private lending strategies finance businesses and assets.
Discover how investors participate in early-stage private companies.
Understand investing in established businesses outside public markets.
Under SEC Rule 501(a)(5), net worth includes liquid assets, retirement accounts, secondary real estate, and investments, but excludes the equity value of your primary residence.
Under SEC Rule 501(a)(6), income is evaluated across each of the past two calendar years with a reasonable expectation of reaching the same threshold in the current year.
In 2020, the SEC designated holders of certain FINRA licenses in good standing as accredited investors under Rule 501(a)(10), regardless of income or net worth.
On September 30, 2026, the SEC issued notices of proposed rulemaking to designate additional certifications as qualifying credentials under Rule 501(a)(10). Do you hold any of these designations?
The SEC is advancing a proposed universal examination administered by FINRA (~75 questions, ~$100 fee, 10-year validity) open to anyone age 18+. Would you be interested in testing into accredited investor status?
Which private investment opportunities are you most interested in evaluating? (Optional — select all that apply)
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A concise summary of active federal criteria versus pending rulemaking.
Qualify through net worth exceeding $1,000,000 (excluding primary home), individual income >$200,000 (or >$300,000 joint), or holding active FINRA Series 7, 65, or 82 licenses in good standing.
Under proposed notices, accredited status would expand to CPAs, CFAs, CFPs, Series 79/86/87, and adults age 18+ who pass a universal ~75-question FINRA exam ($100 fee, 10-year validity). (Notice in public comment; exam not yet active).
Self-assessment indicates eligibility under Rule 501(a). For Rule 506(c) offerings, issuers must independently verify qualification via CPA/attorney letters or tax documents prior to accepting funds.