As a finance professional, I often guide investors on the best ways to manage their mutual fund investments. One question that comes up frequently is how to add money to a Brown Advisory mutual fund account by mail. While electronic transfers dominate today’s investment landscape, mailing a check remains a viable option for many investors, especially those who prefer paper-based transactions or lack reliable internet access.
Table of Contents
Why Consider Mailing a Check to Brown Advisory?
Before diving into the mechanics, it’s worth understanding why someone might choose to mail a check instead of using electronic methods like ACH transfers or wire transfers.
- Security Concerns – Some investors distrust online transactions due to cybersecurity risks.
- Lack of Digital Access – Older investors or those in rural areas may not have consistent internet access.
- Personal Preference – Writing and mailing checks provides a tangible record of the transaction.
- Large Transactions – Some investors prefer checks for substantial deposits to avoid electronic transfer limits.
However, mailing checks has drawbacks:
- Processing Delays – It can take 5-7 business days for mailed checks to clear.
- Risk of Loss or Theft – Checks can get lost or stolen in transit.
- Manual Errors – Incorrectly filled forms can delay processing.
Step-by-Step Process to Add Money by Mail
Step 1: Obtain the Correct Brown Advisory Forms
Brown Advisory requires investors to submit a Purchase Application Form along with their check. You can download this form from their official website or request it via customer service.
Step 2: Fill Out the Form Accurately
Key details to include:
- Account Number (to ensure funds go to the correct portfolio)
- Fund Name & Ticker Symbol (e.g., Brown Advisory Sustainable Growth Fund – BIAWX)
- Investment Amount
- Payment Method (check or money order)
Step 3: Write the Check Properly
- Make the check payable to: Brown Advisory Funds
- Include your account number in the memo line.
- Ensure the check is signed and dated.
Step 4: Mail to the Correct Address
Brown Advisory’s mailing address for investments is:
Brown Advisory
P.O. Box 219097
Kansas City, MO 64121-9097 For overnight deliveries (FedEx/UPS):
Brown Advisory
430 W 7th St, Ste 219097
Kansas City, MO 64105 Step 5: Track the Transaction
After mailing, monitor your account online or via statements to confirm the deposit.
Comparing Mailing Checks vs. Electronic Transfers
| Feature | Mailing a Check | ACH Transfer | Wire Transfer |
|---|---|---|---|
| Processing Time | 5-7 days | 2-3 days | 1 day |
| Cost | Free (postage only) | Free | $15-$30 fee |
| Security Risk | Moderate | Low | Low |
| Best For | Small, non-urgent deposits | Regular contributions | Large, time-sensitive deposits |
Example: Calculating Opportunity Cost of Mailed Checks
Suppose you mail a $10,000 check to Brown Advisory instead of using a wire transfer. The fund’s expected return is 8\% annually.
Delay: 5 business days ≈ 0.0192 years (\frac{5}{260}, assuming 260 trading days/year).
Lost Earnings:
10,000 \times (1.08^{0.0192} - 1) \approx 10,000 \times 0.0015 = 15You lose approximately $15 in potential gains due to processing delays.
Security Best Practices When Mailing Checks
- Use Certified Mail – Provides tracking and reduces loss risk.
- Avoid Handwritten Envelopes – Print labels to prevent misdelivery.
- Double-Check Details – Ensure the account number and fund name are correct.
When Should You Avoid Mailing Checks?
- Market Timing – If you’re trying to capitalize on a short-term opportunity, delays hurt.
- Large Sums – Wire transfers are safer for amounts exceeding $50,000.
- International Investors – Checks may face additional clearing delays.
Alternatives to Mailing Checks
- Automated Investing (SIPs) – Set up systematic investment plans (SIPs) via ACH.
- Wire Transfers – Faster but costlier.
- Online Portals – Brown Advisory’s client portal allows electronic deposits.
Final Thoughts
Mailing a check to Brown Advisory remains a straightforward, albeit slower, method of adding money to your mutual fund account. While electronic transfers dominate for convenience, checks provide a reliable fallback.
