What is a Transfer Agent?
Companies that have publicly traded securities typically use transfer agents to keep track of the individuals and entities that own their stocks and bonds. Transfer agents perform three main functions:
- Issue and cancel certificates to reflect changes in ownership,
- Act as an intermediary for the company, and
- Handle lost, destroyed or stolen certificates.
How do I sell my stock that I hold in certificate form?
You will need to contact a registered securities Broker/Dealer. There are several securities Broker/Dealers, so we recommend contacting a few to explore your options.
Can I sell my stock through West Coast Stock Transfer, Inc.?
No, West Coast Stock Transfer, Inc. is not a Broker/Dealer. You will need to contact a registered securities Broker/Dealer. While West Coast Stock Transfer cannot buy or sell stock on your behalf, your Broker/Dealer is welcome to use our services if you prefer your certificates and inquiries to be handled by our friendly staff.
Can I access my account online?
Yes, we offer online access for shareholders here. You will need your Account Number and PIN. If you did not receive or misplaced these items, please contact us at (619) 664-4780. This link is also located in the top menu item “Login”, and then “Shareholders”.
How do I change my address?
You are able to update your address when you access your account online. Alternatively, you can complete and return the Shareholder Contact Information Update Form.
What is escheatment?
This is a process of remitting property, such as deposits or securities, to the appropriate state if the shareholder cannot be contacted for period of time. All states require “holders”, such as corporations and financial institutions, to report when property has been abandoned or unclaimed. For example, under California Law for example, the state requires holders to annually report and deliver property to the state after there has been no contact for three years. Many times this is because the account holder forgets they have an account or fails to update the holder with contact information after they have moved. In some cases, a shareholder may have passed away and their heirs have no knowledge of the property. In order to claim the property that was remitted to a state, you will need to contact the state directly.
What is the value of my stock?
We do not provide stock quotation services but there are several free services available online (i.e. Nasdaq.com or otcmarkets.com).
What is a CUSIP?
CUSIP is an acronym for the Committee on Uniform Security Identification Procedures established by the American Bankers Association and administered by Standard and Poors. A CUSIP is nine-character alphanumeric code used to identify financial instruments such as stock and bonds for the purpose of clearing and settlement of trades.
What is restricted stock?
Restricted securities are securities acquired in unregistered, private sales from the issuing company or from an affiliate of the issuer. Investors typically receive restricted securities through private placement offerings, Regulation D offerings, employee stock benefit plans, as compensation for professional services, or in exchange for providing “seed money” or start-up capital to the company (source: www.sec.gov).
Restricted securities are usually issued with a ‘restricted legend’ (red stamp) on the stock certificate. (Sample below)
THE SHARES REPRESENTED BY THIS CERTIFICATE HAVE NOT BEEN REGISTERED UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933, AS AMENDED (THE “ACT”), OR ANY OTHER SECURITIES LAWS AND MAY NOT BE OFFERED FOR SALE, SOLD, TRANSFERRED, ASSIGNED, HYPOTHECATED OR OTHERWISE DISPOSED EXCEPT (I) UPON EFFECTIVE REGISTRTION OF THE SECURITIES UNDER THE ACT AND OTHER APPLICABLE SECURITIES LAWS COVERING SUCH SECURITIES, OR (II) UPON ACCEPTANCE BY THE COMPANY OF AN OPINION OF COUNSEL IN SUCH FORM AND BY SUCH COUNSEL, OR OTHER DOCUMENTATION, AS IS SATISFACTORY TO COUNSEL FOR THE COMPANY TO THE EFFECT THAT SUCH REGISTRATION IS NOT REQUIRED.
How do I remove the restricted legend from my stock certificate?
Where do I mail stock certificates?
All documents, including stock certificates, should be mailed to: West Coast Stock Transfer, Inc., Attn: Transfers, 721 N. Vulcan Ave. Ste. 205, Encinitas, CA 92024. We recommend sending any sensitive materials by registered mail or other courier service that provides tracking information. We further recommend insuring your certificates. If a certificate is lost in the mail, we will require a surety bond to replace the lost certificates which will anywhere from 2-4% of the market value of the lost certificates (see Lost Certificates Section).
What is a Medallion Signature Guarantee Stamp?
See Medallion Signature Guarantees section.