Investment advisors that are registered with either the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) or with state securities agencies are referred to as registered investment advisors, or RIAs. By registering, advisors commit to the fiduciary responsibility of putting clients’ best interests before their own.

Whether investment advisors register with the SEC or in the states where they practice depends mostly on how much money they manage. Advisors managing more than $100 million in assets are required to register with the SEC. Those managing less generally register with their state securities commission.

Registration with the SEC does not imply a certain level of skill or training.