Identity
Full legal name, DOB, legal entity type, and government ID details to confirm the signer’s authority and match records.
A well-designed Client Suitability Questionnaire documents client facts and preferences needed to meet suitability, fiduciary, and AML expectations under U.S. regulatory frameworks.
The questionnaire is completed by the prospective client or an authorized representative and reviewed by the advisor, broker, or intake team.
Responses become part of the client file and should be updated whenever material changes occur in the client’s circumstances.
Full legal name, DOB, legal entity type, and government ID details to confirm the signer’s authority and match records.
Income, net worth, liquid assets, and balance sheet items that affect suitability and ability to bear losses.
Time horizon, primary objectives (growth, income, preservation), and expected use of proceeds to align recommendations.
Quantified tolerance for volatility and loss, scenario responses, and risk-rating output used to match products.
Legal, tax, regulatory, or personal restrictions such as prohibited investments or tax-sensitive mandates.
Consent to electronic records, disclosure of conflicts, and signature block with date and authority statement.
| Field | Configuration |
|---|---|
| Authentication | Email link or SMS OTP for signer verification |
| Required Fields | Mark identity and financial fields as mandatory |
| Audit Trail | Enable timestamps, IP logging, and activity log |
| Retention | Set automatic archival after retention period |
Ensure your platform supports secure delivery, authentication, and long‑term storage before accepting electronic completion.
These technical features help maintain chain‑of‑custody, support compliance audits, and reduce manual reconciliation work.
| signNow | DocuSign | Adobe Sign | PandaDoc | HelloSign | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | $8/user/mo | $15/user/mo | $14/user/mo | $19/user/mo | $15/user/mo |
| Free Trial | 7-day free trial | Varies by plan | Varies by plan | Varies by plan | Varies by plan |
| Bulk Send | Yes (Business Premium+) | Varies by plan | Varies by plan | Varies by plan | Varies by plan |
| Audit Trail | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Envelope Cap | No envelope cap | 100 envelopes/user/year | Varies by plan | Varies by plan | Varies by plan |
Provide the questionnaire at the start of onboarding; request return within 7–14 days.
Complete suitability assessment within 3 business days of receipt for time‑sensitive products.
Document and close any material discrepancies within 5 business days.
Archive the completed questionnaire to records within 30 days of signature.
Refresh for material changes or at least annually for active client relationships.