I’ll take my Series 65 next month. Assuming I pass, how do I plan my next steps?


Currently my S-Corp helps clients with debt remediation, retirement planning, college/trade/tech school planning, etc. I’m taking the Series 65 because I’ve always done investing education, but don’t want to worry about straddling that line and getting into trouble.


Also, I’ve had some clients, such as those who are elderly or just extremely busy, who have wanted me to just advise them what investment choices may be right for them, and some who would like me to manage their investments. I’m not interested in buying/selling.


I know I’ll need to register my company as an RIA here in PA, so looking into whether to try to that alone or work with companies that do that (any experiences with CS2?).


So, do I need to find a custodian and set up an arrangement with them? I’m a Vanguard fan but read some things about the rocky road between them and independent RIA/IARs over the years, and that they might be coming back around to independent RIA/IARs.


Should I be looking at programs/networks like SmartVestor Pro or XYPN? I don’t want to get ahead of myself and make assumptions I’ll pass (fingers crossed) but do want to start some of the planning for when I do.


Are there any good resources to guide toward these next steps for a prospective RIA? Thanks in advance.