The verification standard
Verify the recipient, minimise sensitive data and use controlled channels when sharing financial records with a professional.
Run the checks in order
Your progress is stored only in this browser.
Verify the recipient outside the request
Look up the firm through official records and call a known public number to confirm the person, portal domain and requested document list. Treat last-minute email changes, new upload links and requests for passwords or remote access as stop signals. Next step: Recognise identity and payment warning signs.
Reduce the exposed data
Ask why each document and field is needed and whether a redacted version is acceptable. Remove unrelated account numbers, government identifiers or medical information when the recipient confirms they are unnecessary. Do not alter facts required for an application or compliance review. Next step: Protect investment account access.
Control the transfer and aftermath
Use the firm's authenticated portal or another approved encrypted method, create unique passwords and enable multifactor authentication. Keep a dated list of files and recipients. Ask about retention, subcontractors, deletion and how the firm reports a security incident. Next step: Verify a mortgage recipient.
Primary sources
What a complete verification record looks like
A supposed broker emails a new file link and asks for tax returns before a call. The borrower finds the company in NMLS, calls its published number and learns the sender is not an employee. No records are uploaded.
Verification questions
Is ordinary email safe for financial documents?
Email can be misdirected or compromised. Ask the firm for its approved secure transfer method and verify the link independently.
Should I send account passwords to an adviser?
No. Use authorised account-linking, custodian access or secure data processes that do not require sharing your password.
What counts as verified
- Verify person and firm independently
- Confirm the exact portal domain
- Share only needed records
- Use unique credentials and MFA
This page is general education, not individual financial, investment, insurance, mortgage, legal or tax advice.