RIA Glossary / Regulators & Filing Systems

Investment Adviser Public Disclosure (IAPD)

Quick Answer
Investment Adviser Public Disclosure (IAPD) is the public-facing website where anyone can search and view an investment adviser’s Form ADV filings, including firm and individual representative background information, disciplinary history, and business practices.
Reviewed by Sam Carter, Director of Registration Services
Last reviewed October 9, 2026

What Is Investment Adviser Public Disclosure (IAPD)?

The  IAPD pulls its data directly from the IARD system, meaning whatever a firm files on Form ADV — including any amendments — becomes publicly viewable, typically within a short window after filing. Prospective clients, journalists, and competitors alike can use IAPD to look up a firm’s registration status, AUM, fee structure, disciplinary disclosures, and the professional background of individual representatives.

Because this information is public, firms have a practical incentive — beyond the regulatory obligation itself — to keep their Form ADV accurate and current, since it functions as a public-facing profile in addition to a regulatory filing.

Why it Matters

Outdated or inaccurate information on IAPD isn’t just a compliance issue — it’s visible to any prospective client who looks the firm up, making Form ADV accuracy a reputational matter as well as a regulatory one.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can clients see my firm's Form ADV for free?

IAPD is a free, publicly accessible database maintained by the SEC and NASAA.

How quickly do Form ADV updates appear on IAPD?

Typically within a few business days of the amendment being filed and processed through IARD.
Related Service

Get hands-on help with this

Our registration and compliance team has guided independent RIAs for two decades. See how we can help your firm.

Need help putting this into practice?

Our registration and compliance team has guided independent RIAs for two decades. Talk to us about how this applies to your firm.