Stapleton Frost

Regulatory reference / SEC filings

File your Form D and other documents at the SEC.

A practical guide to getting EDGAR access, filing Form D, and staying current with SEC requirements.

01 / The system

What Is EDGAR?

EDGAR (Electronic Data Gathering, Analysis, and Retrieval) is the SEC's online system for submitting required filings. It ensures transparency and compliance for companies offering securities, whether public or private.

EDGAR is used to file:

  • Form D (for Regulation D offerings)
  • Form ID (to obtain EDGAR access)
  • Financial reports (10-K, 10-Q, 8-K)
  • Registration statements (S-1, S-3)
  • Insider ownership forms (Forms 3, 4, 5)

02 / Filing sequence

Four steps to stay filed.

Follow the sequence below before submitting your next filing.

01

Step 1: Get Access to EDGAR

To file anything on EDGAR, you need to submit Form ID and receive your CIK (Central Index Key) and access codes.

Form ID Submission

Purpose:
Request access to EDGAR
Deadline:
Submit well before your first filing

EDGAR Filer Management Portal

Submit Form ID and manage your account: EDGAR Filer Management

02

Step 2: Enroll in EDGAR Next

As of September 15, 2025, all filers must comply with EDGAR Next, which requires:

  • Login.gov credentials
  • Multifactor authentication
  • Role-based permissions

Enroll in EDGAR Next

03

Step 3: File Form D

Form D is required for companies relying on Regulation D exemptions to notify the SEC of their offering.

Filing Instructions

  • File within 15 days of the first sale
  • Use the EDGAR Online Forms portal
  • Prepare using the paper version of Form D

EDGAR Online Forms Login

SEC's Form D Instructions

04

Step 4: File State Blue Sky Notices

Even if exempt federally, you may need to file Form D with each state where securities are sold.

NASAA Blue Sky Filing Info

Helpful Resources

Need Help?

  • SEC Filer Support: (202) 551-8900 (Option 4)
  • Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM ET, Monday–Friday