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A checklist you control

Evaluate any financial services firm

Use this with any organization you might work with. Check what you have confirmed, what is still unclear, and anything that gave you pause. This is not legal advice and not a recommendation of any firm.

Training

Training is described in writing, including how long it lasts.
Training includes supervised practice, not only recorded videos.
It is clear who pays for training.
Training covers ethics and how to explain products accurately.

Supervision

There is a named person or process for questions.
Early client conversations or files are reviewed.
You are not expected to figure out compliance entirely on your own.

Fees you pay

Any startup, platform, lead, event, or membership fees are disclosed in writing before you commit.
You understand what is optional versus required.
Refund and cancellation terms are clear.
You are not pressured to buy tools or leads you do not understand.

Contract and work status

You have been told whether you would be an employee or an independent contractor.
You understand, or will get your own advice on, how that status affects taxes, benefits, and expenses.
You can review the contract before signing.
Non-compete, non-solicit, and termination terms have been explained.

Products and compliance support

You know which products you would be authorized to discuss after licensing.
Any limits on product choice were disclosed up front.
There is a process for reviewing public statements and advertising.
You are told not to make earnings claims or give advice you are not authorized to give.

Client service versus recruiting pressure

The described work is primarily about serving clients’ needs.
You are not pressured to recruit friends or family as a first activity.
You can decline recruiting activity without being misled about what the role is.

License verification

You looked up the individual on the state insurance department’s license search.
If they discuss securities, you also checked FINRA BrokerCheck.
If they hold out as an investment adviser, you checked the SEC’s Investment Adviser Public Disclosure site.
The license class and status match what you were told.

Red flags you noticed

Check any that you observed. These are caution signs to investigate, not findings of wrongdoing by themselves.