Start with the company and the date
The SEC’s EDGAR database provides free access to public company filings. Search by company name or ticker, then confirm that you have the correct issuer. Check the filing date and reporting period. A filing with /A in its form type is an amendment.
Three useful starting points
Form 10-K is the annual report used by domestic reporting companies. It covers the business, important risks and audited financial statements. Form 10-Q provides quarterly financial information, which is generally unaudited, and other updates. Form 8-K reports certain company events between regular reports.
Read for the question you have
To understand what the company does, start with the Business section of its 10-K. To understand cash and operating results, look at the financial statements and management’s discussion and analysis. To understand uncertainty, read Risk Factors.
A headline about an agreement may not include the entire agreement. Check any exhibits attached to the relevant filing, and separate what has happened from what management expects could happen.
Keep the context
A filing is one part of your research. Compare it with later filings and the company’s official announcements. SEC filing does not mean the SEC has endorsed the investment or guaranteed the accuracy of the company’s statements.
Source review
- SEC Investor.gov — Using EDGAR to Research Investments
- SEC Investor.gov — How to Read a 10-K
- SEC Investor.gov — How to Read a 10-K/10-Q
Sources reviewed October 22, 2026. This guide is general education, not personalized investment advice or a recommendation to buy or sell any security.