RIA Glossary / Registration & Formation

IARD/CRD

Quick Answer
The Investment Adviser Registration Depository (IARD) is the electronic system used to file and maintain Form ADV, while the Central Registration Depository (CRD) is the broader system that tracks individual and firm registration records, including Form U-4 filings. The two systems are closely linked and often referenced together.
Reviewed by Sam Carter, Director of Registration Services
Last reviewed September 16, 2026

What Are IARD and CRD?

IARD, operated by FINRA on behalf of the SEC and state regulators, is specifically the platform advisers use to submit Form ADV filings and pay associated fees. CRD is the older, broader system originally built for broker-dealer registration that now also underlies IARD’s individual-level records — meaning a person’s CRD number carries across both broker-dealer and investment adviser representative registrations. In practice, firms and individuals interact with both systems as a connected whole when handling registration, amendments, and fee payments.

Understanding which system handles which filing helps firms troubleshoot registration issues — Form ADV problems typically point to IARD, while individual representative record issues typically point to CRD.

Why it Matters

Nearly every registration and filing obligation an RIA has flows through these two connected systems, making basic familiarity with how they work essential for managing ongoing compliance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need separate logins for IARD and CRD?

Firms typically access both through a single IARD system account, since the platforms are integrated for adviser filings.

Is IARD the same as IAPD?

IARD is the filing system firms use to submit Form ADV; IAPD is the public website where anyone can view the resulting filings.
Related Terms

Regulation S-P

What Is Regulation S-P? Regulation S-P requires two main things: a privacy notice given to clients

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