Account Setup
Details identity verification, tax classification, account type, and initial funding requirements so the brokerage can lawfully open and operate the account.
A clear, signed agreement protects both the account holder and the brokerage by documenting permissions, liabilities, and processing rules.
This agreement is used by a range of parties within financial operations, from retail investors to institutional compliance teams.
Signatory responsibilities and internal workflows vary by role; ensure the correct authority signs and that record retention follows regulatory rules.
An individual or legal entity authorized to direct transactions. The account holder must provide accurate identity documents, tax identification, and signature authority. Incorrect holder data may delay transactions or trigger backup withholding procedures.
A broker, financial advisor, or officer of an entity with delegated authority. Representatives must submit proof of authorization (power of attorney, corporate resolution) and comply with brokerage onboarding and supervision requirements.
Details identity verification, tax classification, account type, and initial funding requirements so the brokerage can lawfully open and operate the account.
Defines how securities and cash are held, settlement timing, and protections for client assets including SIPC and optional excess insurance.
Specifies who may place orders, whether discretionary trading is permitted, and any limits or approval steps for large or restricted trades.
Documents margin account rules, interest on debit balances, collateral use, and rights to liquidate positions on margin calls.
Lists commissions, custody fees, transfer fees, and how and when fees are collected or deducted.
Includes governing law, arbitration or forum-selection clauses, amendment procedures, and electronic communication consents.
| Field | Configuration |
|---|---|
| Identity Verification | Remote KBA or credential analysis before signing |
| Signing Order | Sequential: account holder then authorized rep |
| Authentication Method | Email + SMS OTP for consumer accounts |
| Audit Trail | Capture IP, timestamp, and action log for each signer |
Electronic completion is common but requires attention to authentication, document formats, and auditability.
Ensure your chosen platform supports required compliance features (audit trail, access controls, and retention) and can export records for regulatory review.
Often completes within 24–72 hours depending on documentation
ACH deposits typically post in 1–3 business days
Margin-enabled accounts may require separate approval, often 1–5 business days
Backup withholding applies immediately if TIN is missing
ACAT transfers can take 3–7 business days once initiated
Sender uploads the signed agreement and supporting ID documents.
Broker runs identity checks, OFAC, and AML screening against the submission.
Bank account verification or wire instructions are confirmed for initial funding.
Once cleared, account statuses change to active and trading is permitted.
| 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 | Yes, 7-day trial | Varies by plan | Varies by plan | Varies by plan | Varies by plan |
| Bulk Send | Yes (Business Premium) | Depends on tier | Depends on tier | Yes | Depends on tier |
| 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 |
A venture firm opened multiple investor custodial accounts online to streamline onboarding
A real estate investor established brokerage accounts for syndication proceeds using remote identity verification