It seems that, more than any other topic, folks searching the internet through the major search engines in 2009 came to BDLawBlog.com seeking information on the Form U4. Unfortunately, there is a certain mystique to the form. I think this may be in part to misunderstandings by many about the requirements of the Form U4, as well as a lack of understanding of the significance of this regulatory filing. Ultimately, the U4 is a straightforward document, but it must be read in conjunction with its instructions, and the definitions in those instructions. And, importantly, registered folks must familiarize themselves with the information required to be disclosed on the U4, and make sure to timely amend the disclosures when appropriate.
If you have questions about the U4, here are a few resources for you. To begin with, check out the other U4 related posts here at BDLawBlog.com. Be sure the read the several part primer on the U4, as well as the post about the little known lifetime bar. Yeah, its not stuff you'll talk about over dinner or drinks, but if you are a registered representative, this one document can have a significant impact on your ability to continue to work in your chosen field.
FINRA's site contains the current version of the Form U4, and the instructions for the U4 (a separate document) here.
FINRA's site also details the statutory disqualification process and answers questions about statutory disqualifications (some disqualifications arise as a result of improperly completed U4s). Find that information here.
