How long does it take?

Verification is typically **instant** and most applications are approved automatically within minutes. In some cases manual review may be required, which can take up to **2 business days**. You'll receive an email notification when your account is approved.

What happens if verification fails?

If we cannot verify your identity automatically, our team will contact you by email to request additional documentation. Common reasons for manual review include a blurry photo, name discrepancies, or an expired ID.

Can non-U.S. residents open an account?

Yes, except some restricted countries from the [blocked jurisdictions list](/instructions/getting-started/restricted-countries).

What is the minimum deposit to open an account?

The minimum initial deposit is $100.

Getting Started

How to Open an Account

Create your Light Horse account online in a few minutes.

How to Apply

Go to lighthorse.io and tap Open Account & Join Beta
Enter your email address and create a password
Complete the identity verification form — name, date of birth, SSN, and address
Upload a photo of your government-issued ID
Review and e-sign the account agreements
Link your bank account and make your initial deposit

Why We Verify Your Identity

Federal law (the USA PATRIOT Act and Bank Secrecy Act) requires all U.S. broker-dealers to verify the identity of every customer. This process is called Know Your Customer (KYC).

What You'll Need to Provide

Legal full name as it appears on your government ID
Date of birth
Social Security Number (SSN) for US persons, or local tax id for residents of other countries
Residential address, US or foreign, with some supplemental document that can act as proof of address. This includes:
- Utility bill
- Bank statement
Government-issued photo ID — acceptable forms include:
- U.S. driver's license
- U.S. state ID card
- Passport or passport card

How to Submit Your ID

During account opening, you'll be prompted to take a photo of your ID using your phone's camera or upload an image file. The system will automatically read and verify the document.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take?
Verification is typically instant and most applications are approved automatically within minutes. In some cases manual review may be required, which can take up to 2 business days. You'll receive an email notification when your account is approved.
What happens if verification fails?
If we cannot verify your identity automatically, our team will contact you by email to request additional documentation. Common reasons for manual review include a blurry photo, name discrepancies, or an expired ID.
Can non-U.S. residents open an account?
Yes, except some restricted countries from the blocked jurisdictions list.
What is the minimum deposit to open an account?
The minimum initial deposit is $100.