Accredited Investor Guide 2026: Who Qualifies and What Deals It Unlocks
Published October 2026 | Awesome ROI Market Insights
Accredited investor status is the key that opens the door to most private real estate deals. In fact, many investors qualify without realizing it. In addition, the rules may soon get broader. On September 30, 2026, the SEC proposed new ways for people to qualify, including an exam and certain professional credentials, according to an SEC press release. So, here is a simple guide to who qualifies today and what may change.
Who Qualifies as an Accredited Investor Today
According to the SEC, you generally qualify as an individual if you meet any one of these tests:
Net worth: Over $1 million, alone or with a spouse or partner, not counting your primary home.
Income: Over $200,000 in each of the last two years, or $300,000 with a spouse or partner, with the same expected this year.
Licenses: Holding a Series 7, 65, or 82 license in good standing.
Certain entities also qualify, such as trusts, LLCs, and family offices with more than $5 million in assets.
What Is Changing in 2026
Specifically, the SEC’s September 2026 proposal would add two new paths. First, people could qualify by passing an accredited investor exam developed by FINRA. Second, holders of credentials like the CPA, CFA, or CFP could qualify. Meanwhile, the existing income and net worth tests would stay the same. However, this is only a proposal for public comment, so it is not final yet. Congress has also considered related bills. For example, the House passed the INVEST Act in December 2025, as reported by the American Bar Association.
What Accredited Status Unlocks
In practice, most private real estate offerings use Regulation D. Under Rule 506(c), sponsors can advertise publicly, but every investor must be accredited and verified. In contrast, under Rule 506(b), sponsors cannot advertise, but may accept a limited number of sophisticated non accredited investors. So, accredited status gives you access to a much wider range of deals. For example, that can include direct ownership in shopping centers, flex warehouses, storage, and operating businesses.
How Accredited Investor Status Is Verified
How you prove your status depends on the offering. Under Rule 506(b), investors often confirm their status in the subscription documents. Under Rule 506(c), however, the sponsor must take reasonable steps to verify each investor.
For example, you may share tax returns, W-2s, bank or brokerage statements, or a letter from your CPA, attorney, or financial advisor. In March 2025, SEC staff also said that high minimum investments can support verification in some cases. Either way, keep your documents handy so the process goes quickly.
How Awesome ROI Works With Investors
To start, our offerings are private investments in Arizona real estate and businesses that our team operates. In addition, we walk every investor through eligibility, documents, and the investment process. If you are not sure whether you qualify, that is a great first question for a call. Browse our current offerings or read our Investor FAQ.
Many people already qualify. The net worth test excludes your home, and income tests count joint income.
Licenses count too. Series 7, 65, and 82 holders qualify regardless of wealth.
New paths may be coming. The SEC has proposed an exam and new credential based routes.
Status opens doors. Accredited investors can access most private real estate offerings.
Ways to Get Started
Model a private real estate investment with our free IRR calculator. Many accredited investors also invest through a 401(k) or Self-Directed IRA. When you are ready, book a free investment strategy call.
Frequently Asked Questions About Accredited Investors
Does my home count toward the $1 million net worth test? No. In other words, your primary residence is excluded from the net worth calculation.
Can I qualify with my spouse’s income? Yes. Joint income over $300,000 in each of the last two years can qualify you, with the same expected this year.
Is the new accredited investor exam available now? Not yet. As of October 2026, the SEC has only proposed the exam pathway and is seeking public comment.
This article is for educational purposes only and is not legal or investment advice.
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Not sure where you stand? Then, our team can walk you through it. Schedule a call with our team, contact us, or call +1 (833) 652-7103.
