How do I change the name on inherited stocks into my name?

Answer 1

Changing the name on stock certificates is done through either an official transfer agent of the company or sometimes through the company itself. All stock shares list the transfer agent's name and address; however it is always possible that that transfer agent has changed and if so the company will notify you upon request of the new agent. In order to make the transfer several items are needed because it is a formal documentary procedure. The executor must provide a current certificate showing he/she is the executor, a death certificate of the decedent, a letter of instruction with the signature of the executor guaranteed by an officer in a commercial bank, from the executor to the agent or company directing the change of names and an affidavit of domicile showing that the decedent was a domiciliary of the state where the probate took place. You may also have to provide proof of both your and the executor's identity. For more information, just call the company itself and it will tell you everything it needs and may even provide some of the forms. Strictly speaking, the executor should do this for you, because the executor has a duty to make proper distribution and simply handing over stock in a decedent's name is not a full distribution.