How To Present A Gift Of Shares Of Stock

Feb 18, 2024 By Susan Kelly

Stocks are a unique and considerate gift that may be given to commemorate an event or express thanks. Allowing someone to learn about investing is a thoughtful gesture that may pay dividends in the long run. Several procedures must be followed to gift how to give stocks as a gift properly. The first step is to locate the recipient's brokerage account details (name, account number, etc.). You may assist the receiver in opening a brokerage account if they still need to get one. The next step is to choose the stocks that will be donated. You may tailor your gift to someone's hobbies or financial objectives by selecting equities or exchange-traded funds (ETFs). After making your stock pick, the next step is sending it directly to the recipient's brokerage account. You may do this by dealing with a stock transfer agent or completing a transfer form.

How To Pick The Best Stocks

Choosing appropriate stocks is the first step in giving stocks as a present. The recipient's age, investment objectives, and comfort with risk are all relevant considerations. If you want to invest wisely, consider the following advice:

Consider The Age Of The Recipient

If you're looking to give stocks to someone young, it's best to invest in something with long-term growth potential, like a tech business. Stocks in a more established, dividend-paying firm may be better if you're gifting equities to a retiree.

Consider The Recipient's Investing Objectives

Give them equity in a firm with strong prospects for future expansion if they want to see your gift rise in value over time. Stocks in a reliable dividend payer are a good option if the lucky recipient values safety above growth.

Assess The Risk Tolerance Of The Recipient

Some folks can't stand taking chances. Stocks in a more stable corporation that produces dividends may be a better choice for the less risk-taking recipient of your gift. Stocks in a rapidly expanding firm may be a good gift for someone who can handle more uncertainty.

Step 2: Opening A Trading Account

After deciding which stocks to donate, the next step is to open an investing account. There are many options for investment accounts, such as:

Brokerage Accounts

Stocks, bonds, and other assets may be bought and sold via an investment account called a brokerage account. Choosing a brokerage to create an account with is a necessary first step.

Direct Stock Purchase Plans (DSPs)

You may avoid the intermediary and purchase stocks straight from certain corporations. If you wish to donate shares of a certain firm, this may be a smart way.

Robo-Advisor Accounts

In finance, a robo-advisor is an automated service that builds and monitors a diversified portfolio of stocks and other assets. If you want to create a varied portfolio but need help deciding which stocks to choose, this may be a suitable alternative.

Transferring Ownership Of The Stocks

After opening a brokerage account, stock ownership may be transferred to the receiver. These are the measures to take:

Obtain The Recipient's Information

You'll need the person's full legal name, mailing address, and SSN or tax ID number.

Order The Transfer Of Ownership

To officially hand over the stocks to the receiver, you must submit a purchase. You can often do this with your brokerage business online or over the phone.

Fill Out The Required Paperwork

You may need to complete documentation to change who owns the stocks officially. Two examples are a signature assurance on a medallion and a document to transfer ownership.

Pay Any Transfer Fees

The transfer of stock ownership may incur a cost at certain brokerages. When purchasing, make sure you fully grasp all the associated costs.

Conclusion

Stocks are a great present since they benefit the donor and the receiver. It's a one-of-a-kind present that shows you care, and it may even pay off for the receiver in the future. A few procedures are involved in giving stocks as a gift, including finding out the recipient's brokerage account details, choosing appropriate stocks or ETFs, and transferring the stock to their account. Carefully consider the recipient's interests and financial objectives before selecting stocks or ETFs to gift. Stocks are rare and appreciated presents for birthdays, anniversaries, and other special events. Long-term monetary rewards are possible with proper preparation and planning.