In today’s environment a clean U-4 is an important issue for receiving an offer from Merrill Lynch. If you have a few minor dings we can usually work around that. What we can’t work around is you not being truthful about it. Merrill will pull your compliance record before they make you an offer in writing. Discuss any potential marks on your record with your recruiter as soon as possible.   If you would like to quickly view what your U-4 says then you can find it at http://pdpi.nasdr.com/PDPI/ This is public information and anyone can access it.   F.A.Q. Can my current firm see that another company has looked at my U-4? No. The method we use for checking your compliance record is non-responsive. No one can see it so it is not a risk to your confidentiality.   Will non-securities-related issues show on my record? Yes--sometimes. Not all legal issues make it to your U-4 record, but many do. It's best to be up-front about any issues in your past.   Can I change firms if I have a current arbitration? In general, it's not a great idea. If you are fighting a current dispute it is best to have the backing of your current firm.  A new company would not wish to take on this responsibility and your current firm will no longer feel obligated once you have changed companies. Discuss these items with your recruiter, as every case is different.   What happens if I have a dispute in my past? The new hiring firm will need a paragraph explaining the circumstances to submit to compliance. Many times that is enough, although large and trade-related issues will need further explanation.   Why is there a credit check? Credit checks take place as part of the final preparations for your move.  Prior bankruptcies should be discussed during the U-4 check stage.