For decades, the wealthy have had access to a world of investments most Americans have been locked out of.
Private equity. Venture capital. Real estate syndications. Private credit.
Imagine passing ONE multiple-choice exam and unlocking access to investment opportunities once reserved for the wealthy.
No million-dollar net worth. No $300,000 salary required.
The door to private investing could be opening. Will you be ready?
A look at the current landscape of accredited investor qualification.
Most Americans have never had the same access to certain private-market opportunities as accredited investors.
A proposed financial knowledge exam could change that—creating a new pathway based on what you know, not just what you earn or own.
Source: Survey of Consumer Finances (Federal Reserve, 2023). Accredited investor definition per SEC Rule 501(a).
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 consider taking this exam to qualify (or add an independent verification pathway)?
Optional: Send a copy of your classification breakdown, regulatory citations, and market insights to your inbox.
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.