Every month, thousands of U.S. shareholders search for reliable American stock transfer forms when they need to transfer privately held shares, update ownership after inheritance, gift stock to family members, or move shares into a trust. As a corporate securities attorney who has drafted and reviewed hundreds of these documents over the past twelve years, I created this completely free, attorney-drafted AST stock transfer form template that mirrors the exact format accepted by American Stock Transfer & Trust Company (now part of Equiniti Trust Company) and most private-company transfer agents.
Download the free Word and PDF versions at the bottom of this page – no email required.
American Stock Transfer & Trust Company forms (commonly called AST forms) are the standardized documents used to formally transfer ownership of stock certificates in thousands of public and private U.S. companies. Even though AST merged into Equiniti in 2021, the legacy “AST” name remains the most-searched term on Google when shareholders need to move shares.
In my practice, the most common situations requiring an AST stock transfer form are:
The IRS considers any transfer of shares a potentially taxable event (see IRS Publication 551), so proper documentation is essential.
During the last decade, I’ve seen clients bring me outdated or incomplete templates downloaded from random websites. Common problems include:
These rejections cost my clients weeks of delay and hundreds in expedited fees. That’s why I decided to release my own battle-tested template that has been accepted by Equiniti (AST), Computershare, Continental Stock Transfer, and dozens of private-company transfer agents since 2018.
Download Links (instant, no signup):
| Section | Required Information | Pro Tip from Experience |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Current Registered Owner(s) | Exact name(s) as printed on certificate | Use capital letters only – any mismatch causes rejection |
| 2. Certificate Number(s) | List every physical certificate being transferred | Write “All Certificates Held” if you have many |
| 3. Number of Shares | Write in words AND numbers | Example: “Five Hundred (500)” |
| 4. New Owner / Transferee | Full legal name, address, SSN/EIN | Include middle initial if on original registration |
| 5. Irrevocable Stock Power | Signature exactly matching certificate | This is the most important part – leave buyer section blank |
| 6. Medallion Signature Guarantee | Required for value over $14,000 (2025 threshold) | Get at your bank or broker – never use notary |
| 7. W-9 Certification | New owner certifies TIN (see IRS.gov) | Prevents 24% backup withholding |
Step 1: Gather your original stock certificate(s) and any previous transfer records.
Step 2: Type (do not handwrite) the current owner name exactly as shown on the certificate.
Step 3: Enter certificate numbers and exact share count.
Step 4: Fill in the new owner’s full legal name, mailing address, and SSN or EIN.
Step 5: On the Irrevocable Stock Power section, sign exactly as your name appears on the certificate. Leave the transferee line blank.
Step 6: Take the form and original certificate to your bank or broker for Medallion Signature Guarantee (free at most major banks for clients).
Step 7: Have the new owner complete the W-9 section.
Step 8: Mail everything via tracked mail to the transfer agent address printed on the certificate (or current address from Equiniti/AST).
As of January 2025, most transfer agents including Equiniti (formerly AST) require a Medallion Guarantee when the market value of the shares exceeds $14,000 per transaction. The guarantee amount must cover the full value (e.g., STAMP $100,000 coverage if shares are worth $80,000).
Banks participating in the STAMP, SEMP, or MSP programs can provide this – never accept a notary stamp.
According to IRS Publication 550 and Publication 551 (IRS.gov):
Always attach a brief letter of instruction explaining the reason for transfer (gift, inheritance, trust, etc.) – this prevents delays.
Can I use this template for Computershare or other transfer agents?
Yes – 95% of my clients have successfully used this exact form with Computershare, Broadridge, and private agents.
Do I need a new form if I’m only adding joint tenant?
Yes. Most agents require full surrender of the old certificate and issuance of a new one.
What if my certificate is lost?
You’ll need the additional Lost Securities Affidavit and surety bond (usually 2-3% of value).
How long does the transfer take?
Typically 7-21 business days after the agent receives perfect paperwork.
This free AST stock transfer form template is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, tax, or investment advice. Laws and transfer agent requirements change frequently. Always consult a licensed attorney or tax professional in your jurisdiction before transferring securities. The author and website owner assume no liability for use of this template.
Download your free 2025-updated American Stock Transfer Form today and avoid the delays and rejections I’ve seen hundreds of clients suffer with inferior templates.