Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Why Accuracy Matters in FINRA Fingerprinting
- Top Mistakes That Delay FINRA Background Checks
- How to Avoid These Errors
- What to Do If Your Prints Get Rejected
- Houston Fingerprint’s Rejection-Free Guarantee
- FAQs
- Final Thoughts
Introduction
FINRA fingerprinting is essential for securities professionals but simple errors in the process can lead to costly delays or registration rejections. These issues often cause onboarding bottlenecks for firms and frustrations for applicants.
At HoustonFingerprint.com, we’ve helped thousands avoid these pitfalls. This blog outlines the most common fingerprinting mistakes, how to avoid them, and what to do if a rejection occurs.
Why Accuracy Matters in FINRA Fingerprinting
FINRA uses your fingerprint records to run FBI-level background checks for licensing, broker-dealer association, and registration. Any error in the process—whether technical or procedural—can stall your application.
Common consequences include:
- Delayed Form U4 approval
- Extra fingerprinting costs
- Missing job start dates
- Regulatory violations for your firm
Avoiding these mistakes ensures a smooth onboarding process and full FINRA compliance.
Top Mistakes That Delay FINRA Background Checks
Here are the most frequent errors we’ve seen:
Submitting Poor Quality Fingerprints
Smudged, incomplete, or unreadable prints lead to automatic rejections from the FBI’s system.
Incorrect Use of Ink vs. Live Scan
Using an ink card when Live Scan is required—or vice versa—causes unnecessary processing delays.
Wrong Form Type or Incomplete Data
If your fingerprint card or Live Scan form lacks your CRD number, firm ID, or correct registration type, FINRA may reject the submission.
Missing Identity Verification
Not bringing a valid ID or forgetting critical documents leads to wasted appointments and rescheduling.
Sending to the Wrong Agency
Some applicants mistakenly send fingerprints to a state agency instead of FINRA’s authorized processing center.
How to Avoid These Errors
Use this checklist before your FINRA fingerprint appointment:
- Bring a government-issued ID (driver’s license, passport, etc.)
- Know whether you need Live Scan or Ink Card
- Have your CRD number and firm ID ready
- Use an authorized provider like Houston Fingerprint
- Confirm you’re being fingerprinted for FINRA registration, not another purpose
Need help preparing? We provide a pre-appointment checklist and review every form before submission.
What to Do If Your Prints Get Rejected
Rejections happen—but they’re fixable if handled fast. Follow these steps:
- Ask FINRA for the rejection reason and reference number
- Schedule a reprint appointment with us—Houston Fingerprint offers same-day resubmissions
- Fix the issue (bad print quality, missing info, etc.)
- Resubmit using the correct method (Live Scan or ink)
Houston Fingerprint clients benefit from free resubmission support in most cases.
Houston Fingerprint’s Rejection-Free Guarantee
Here’s how we help prevent delays:
- Trained technicians with FINRA experience
- High-quality equipment for crystal-clear prints
- Live Scan and Ink Card options
- Immediate verification of all data before submission
- Free resubmission if an error was on our end
Serving all of Houston, we’re your trusted partner for fast, accurate fingerprinting.
FAQs
Q: What happens if I submit fingerprints twice by mistake?
A: FINRA will typically accept the most recent version, but it may cause processing confusion or slight delays.
Q: Can I avoid rejections with Live Scan?
A: Yes, Live Scan reduces smudges and quality issues, making it the preferred method.
Q: What if I need mobile fingerprinting?
A: We offer on-site fingerprinting for teams or individuals across Houston.
Q: How long does it take to resubmit fingerprints?
A: We offer same-day reprints and can re-submit your fingerprints within 24 hours.
Final Thoughts
Mistakes in FINRA fingerprinting can cost time, money, and opportunity. With a bit of preparation—and a trusted provider like Houston Fingerprint—you can avoid rejections and complete your background check with confidence.
Book your FINRA fingerprinting today
Contact us to schedule a secure, fast appointment in Houston.