With few exceptions, companies that file reports with the SEC
must do so electronically using the SEC's EDGAR system.
EDGAR stands for electronic data gathering and retrieval.
The EDGAR database is available on the SEC's Web site at
www.sec.gov. You'll find many corporate filings in the
EDGAR database, including annual and quarterly reports
and registration statements. Any investor can access and
download this information for free from the SEC'S Web site.
At the end of this article, we'll give you detailed instructions
on how to use EDGAR.
Caution: By law, the reports that
companies file with the SEC must be truthful and complete,
presenting the facts investors
find important in making decisions to buy, hold, or sell
a security. But the SEC cannot guarantee the accuracy of
the reports companies file. Some dishonest companies break
the law and file false reports. Every year, the SEC brings
enforcement actions against companies who've "cooked
their books" or failed to provide important information
to investors. Read SEC filings-and all other information-with
a questioning and critical mind.
Which Companies Don't Have to File Reports With the SEC?
Smaller companies-those with less than $10 million in assets-generally
do not have to file reports with the SEC. But some smaller
companies, including microcap companies, may choose voluntarily
to register their securities with the SEC. As described above,
companies that register with the SEC must also file quarterly,
annual, and other reports.
How To Use Edgar:
- Go to the SEC's Web site at www.sec.gov
- Click on the "EDGAR Database" button
on the navigational tool bar on the left side of the
SEC's homepage
- Click on "Search the EDGAR
Database"
- Click on "Quick Forms Lookup"
Select the type of form you want to view, or use the default "ALL" to
view all forms. If you know what form you want to view, but
it doesn't appear on the pull-down menu, you can also enter
the type of form. For a list of the different forms companies
file, click on "EDGAR Form Definitions" from the
EDGAR homepage.
- Enter the company's name
- Enter a date range
- Click on "Submit Choices"
- Click on the document you would like to view.
www.sec.gov
source:Securities and Exchange Commission
Lois Center-Shabazz is the founder of MsFinancialSavvy.com
and author of the 3-time award-winning personal finance book,
Let's Get Financial Savvy! ISBN #0971979502.
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