Maryland Accredited Investor Certification is a form of verification issued by the state of Maryland to individuals who meet the requirements set forth by the Securities Division of the Office of the Attorney General. This certification is necessary for individuals who wish to participate in certain private investment opportunities, which are typically limited to accredited investors. Accredited investors, as defined by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), are individuals or entities with a certain level of financial sophistication and a high net worth. They are deemed to have the ability to understand and bear the risks associated with private investments. By obtaining the Maryland Accredited Investor Certification, individuals can demonstrate their eligibility to invest in these types of offerings. To qualify for the Maryland Accredited Investor Certification, individuals must meet specific criteria, such as having a net worth exceeding a certain threshold or meeting certain income requirements. Several types of individuals may be eligible for the certification, including high net worth individuals, directors or executive officers of the issuer of the securities, or individuals who are licensed as a broker-dealer or investment adviser. There are several types of Maryland Accredited Investor Certification, each catering to different types of investors. These certifications include: 1. High Net Worth Certification: This certification is for individuals who have a net worth that exceeds a certain threshold, typically set at $1 million excluding the value of their primary residence. 2. Income Certification: This certification is for individuals who have an income that meets or exceeds a certain threshold, typically set at $200,000 per year for an individual or $300,000 per year for a couple. 3. Institutional Investor Certification: This certification is for entities such as banks, insurance companies, registered investment companies, employee benefit plans, and charitable organizations with assets exceeding a certain threshold. It's important to note that the Maryland Accredited Investor Certification is specific to the state of Maryland and is required for individuals who want to participate in private investment opportunities within the state. This certification helps protect both investors and issuers by ensuring that only qualified individuals are able to invest in private offerings.