An investor that meets certain standards outlined in Rule 501(a) of Regulation D qualifies as an accredited investor. For example, individuals may qualify by having (1) annual income exceeding either $200K (singly) or $300K (with spouse or spousal equivalent) in each of the two most recent years; (2) more than $1 million in net worth, excluding the primary residence (singly or with spouse or spousal equivalent); or (3) certain financial professional credentials. Qualifying as an accredited investor determines whether an investor can invest in businesses conducting common types of exempt offerings.