How to Grant Limited Authority

If you choose to grant another individual the right to view and trade on your account, there are just a few steps you'll need to take.*

View or Update Limited AuthorityLog In Required

Annuity customers, please follow these steps instead.

What is limited authority?

Granting limited authority access to another person allows them to make inquiries on your account, buy and sell securities, trade options, and incur margin debt. However, this person cannot withdraw funds from your account.

You may consider granting limited authority when you're planning your estate and you want to provide limited access to a spouse or child.

What do I need to know?

In addition to your Fidelity account number, you'll need to provide this information about your authorized agent:

  • Name and address
  • Social Security number or taxpayer ID number
  • Date of birth
  • Relationship to account owner
  • Email address
  • Citizenship status
  • Associations with brokerage firms
  • If the person is already a Fidelity customer
  • Annual income to determine suitability

What to expect

After you complete the online steps, you’ll need to read and agree to the terms of the Account Authority Customer Agreement.

Under Signature Options, determine how you want to provide the required signatures. Your choices are:

  • Sign electronically – all required signers will receive an email with instructions on how to complete the form.
  • Print, sign, scan, and attach – after you get the required signatures, you can send the form to us online.
  • Print, sign, and mail – send your completed and signed form through the U.S. Mail.

If you've signed up for email notifications, you'll get confirmation in 1–2 business days after your paperwork is processed. If you haven't elected eDeliveryLog In Required, you'll receive a confirmation by U.S. Mail within 5 business days.