Securities Division, 3rd Floor

Arizona Corporation Commission

1300 W. Washington St.

Phoenix, AZ 85007

 

Main: (602) 542-4242

 

Toll-Free Number in Arizona:
1-(866) 837-4399

Ask and Check
Before You Invest!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Securities

The information provided on this website is not comprehensive, is not offered as legal advice, and is not a substitute for competent legal counsel.  The Securities Division provides this information to give you an overview of the topics discussed. You should not rely on the accuracy of this information, but should carefully review all applicable statutes and regulations with the assistance of legal counsel.


Investment Contracts

What Every Investor Should Know

An investment contract is a transaction whereby a person invests his or her money in a common business enterprise and is led to expect profits from the entrepreneurial or managerial efforts of the promoter or a third party.  To fall within the scope of the definition of a security, an investment contract must involve all of the above  elements.*

Almost any type of product can be included in an investment contract, which is considered to be an alternative investment.  Commission reminds investors to consider the risks associated with alternative investments, including entrepreneurial type of investment programs, which must either be registered with the Commission’s Securities Division or have qualified for an exemption from registration.

When considering alternative investment programs, investors should request proper written information such as a prospectus or offering materials before they invest. The documentation should contain enough clear and accurate information to allow investors or their advisers to evaluate and verify the particulars of the investment.

Even when investing with someone they know investors should verify the registrations of sellers and investment opportunities and investigate disciplinary histories by contacting the Investigator on Duty at the Arizona Corporation Commission’s Securities Division: 602.542.0662 or toll free in Arizona, 1.866.VERIFY-9 (837.4399), or via email at info@azinvestor.gov.

Stay Connected


Check here to sign up for Consumer Alerts from the Corporation Division. To receive alerts for your business register at eCorp.azcc.gov.Please call 602-542-3026 with questions for the Corporations Division.

Check here to sign up for Notices and Agendas for Commission Meetings, Hearings and Appearances. Have questions about Notices and Agendas, click here for contact information.

Check here to receive the latest Commission News Releases and information. Please call 602-542-0728 with any questions.

Arizona Corporation Commission

1200 W. Washington Street

Phoenix, AZ 85007

 

Corporations Division

1300 W. Washington Street

Phoenix, AZ 85007

 

Tucson Office (Walk-ins only)

400 W. Congress Street

Tucson, AZ 85701