Client Inventory
List all accounts, account numbers, custodians, contact points, and brief descriptions of holdings, account types, and allocation where applicable to speed reconciliation.
A documented handover reduces operational risk, preserves client service levels, and creates an auditable record of what changed and why. It supports compliance, reduces errors during account transitions, and clarifies outstanding tasks for incoming advisers.
The receiving adviser, compliance officer, and client (where required) should each retain a copy of the completed handover for records and future reference.
Name and title of the adviser transferring responsibility; signs to confirm accuracy of disclosed account details and outstanding actions.
Name and title of the receiving adviser who accepts the handover and confirms receipt of credentials, documents, and client preferences.
List all accounts, account numbers, custodians, contact points, and brief descriptions of holdings, account types, and allocation where applicable to speed reconciliation.
Record login portals, registered emails, phone numbers, multi-factor steps, and where credentials are stored so incoming advisers can reestablish access securely.
Note existing POAs, limited trading authorizations, trustee letters, or transfer forms and whether notarization or original signatures are required for each.
Enumerate pending trades, tax elections, distributions, beneficiary updates, and account transfers with deadlines and recommended next steps.
Include communication frequency, risk tolerance, tax notes, prohibited investments, and any soft preferences that affect ongoing advice.
Attach statements, KYC/AML documents, signed agreements, prior plans, and any correspondence that explains material decisions or exceptions.
| Field | Configuration |
|---|---|
| Signer Order | Departing adviser → incoming adviser → compliance reviewer |
| Authentication | Email + optional SMS or KBA for high-value accounts |
| Conditional Fields | Show POA upload only if scope indicates legal authorization |
| Audit Trail | Capture timestamps, IP, and signer identity for compliance |
Choose a solution that preserves an immutable audit trail and stores signed copies in a secure, access-controlled repository.
| Criteria | Financial Adviser Hand Over | Power of Attorney |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | operational transfer | legal authority grant |
| Formality | checklist and attachments | often notarized |
| Revocation | administrative update | formal revocation required |
| Use Case | internal continuity | third-party authorization |
| 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 | Varies | Varies | Varies |
| Bulk Send | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Varies |
| Audit Trail | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| HIPAA Compliant | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | No |
| Envelope Cap | No cap | 100 envelopes/user/year | Varies | Varies | Varies |
Optica consolidated client records into a single transfer package to avoid missed tasks.
A small advisory firm moved multiple client relationships after an adviser left.
Prepare package within 5 business days of notice
Notify client within 3 business days of transfer
Restore or confirm account access within 7 business days
Allow 10 business days for compliance review
Incoming adviser signs acceptance within 3 business days
Notice received and handover requested
Assemble records, identify legal needs
Signatures, notarization, and transfers executed
Incoming adviser accepts and archives the package