The JOBS Act’s Amendments to Form D

On July 10, 2013, the SEC adopted final rules as required by Title II of the JOBS Act, which directed the SEC to eliminate the ban on general solicitation and advertising for certain offerings conducted under Rule 506 of Regulation D, of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”) provided the securities are sold only to accredited investors.

 

In connection with these amendments to Rule 506, the SEC approved amendments to Form D, adding a box check box requiring issuers to disclose if they are relying on Rule 506(c).As discussed below, the SEC also proposed significant amendments to Form D’s requirements that include penalties for non-compliance.

Rule 506(C) Q & A

Private placement offerings under Rule 506 of Regulation D of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”) are a cost effective and relatively quick way for private companies to raise capital before, during and after a  going public transaction.  Rule 506(c) fundamentally changes the way unregistered offerings may be conducted. While the rule imposes stringent requirements, these requirements are manageable for issuers putting effective compliance strategies into place.

As of September 23, 2013, issuers were allowed to use general solicitation and advertising in Rule 506 (c) offerings made to accredited investors.