Verify
Check anyone, in two minutes.
Whatever the card says, you can confirm what a money professional actually is, on the regulator's own public register. Here is every official list in one place.
Two habits before you trust any link. First, make sure the address really ends in .gov.in for the regulators, or the official body's own domain, since fakes are common. Second, remember that being registered is necessary but not sufficient. It proves what someone is allowed to do and how they are paid. It does not prove they are right for you.
Securities and investments (SEBI)
Registered Investment Adviser (RIA)
SEBI
Confirm the name and registration number. If they are not listed, they are not an RIA, and any advice fee they charge is not regulated as advice.
Mutual Fund Distributor (ARN)
AMFI
Search the name or ARN, and check the status shows Active. An invalid or suspended ARN is a clear warning.
Stock Broker
SEBI
Confirm SEBI registration and exchange membership. For a sub-broker, check they are an Authorised Person under a named main broker.
Research Analyst
SEBI
Anyone giving stock tips for a fee should be here. If they are not registered, treat the tips as marketing from no one accountable.
Portfolio Manager (PMS)
SEBI
Confirm the portfolio manager is registered before handing over fifty lakh rupees or more.
Alternative Investment Fund (AIF)
SEBI
On the recognised intermediaries page, select Alternative Investment Funds to confirm the fund is registered.
Insurance (IRDAI)
Insurance Broker
IRDAI
A broker legally represents you and can place cover across insurers. Confirm they appear on IRDAI's public list.
Insurance Agent
IRDAI
Use the IRDAI agent locator to confirm an agent is licensed, and ask which insurer or insurers they represent.
Insurer (for any policy)
IRDAI
Before buying any policy, confirm the insurance company itself is registered with IRDAI, and look up its claim settlement record.
Other professionals
Chartered Accountant (CA)
ICAI
Confirm ICAI membership. Remember a CA is licensed for tax and accounts, not, by default, for investment advice or selling products.
Certified Financial Planner (CFP)
FPSB India
Confirm the certification, then ask the separate questions it does not answer: how they are paid, and whether they are a SEBI RIA.