Insights · Article

Accredited investor basics.

Eligible is not the same as ready.

The SEC lets individuals qualify on wealth (net worth over $1 million excluding your primary residence), income (over $200,000, or $300,000 jointly, in each of the last two years) or certain professional licenses.1 Meeting the test means you may invest in private offerings. It does not mean a private fund fits your situation.

Before you invest, ask: Do I have an emergency fund? Could I leave this money untouched for years? Could I absorb losing it? Our investor education series walks through each question.