A medallion signature guarantee is available at most major banks, brokerage firms, credit unions, and select financial service providers that participate in the Medallion Signature Guarantee Program, including Fidelity, Charles Schwab, and Bank of America.
What is a medallion signature guarantee?
A medallion signature guarantee is a special type of endorsement used during the transfer of securities, required by transfer agents to verify the identity of the person signing the document and to protect against fraud.
A medallion signature guarantee confirms that the signature on a stock, bond, or other security-related document is genuine and that the person signing has the legal authority to transfer the asset. This guarantee is typically required when transferring securities held in physical certificate form or when completing certain brokerage transactions. The program is overseen by the Securities Transfer Association (STA) and involves financial institutions that have been approved to provide these guarantees. Without a medallion signature guarantee, transfer agents may refuse to process the transaction, delaying the transfer or sale of your securities.
Where can I get a medallion signature guarantee near me?
You can obtain a medallion signature guarantee at participating financial institutions such as major banks, brokerage firms, and credit unions, including Fidelity Investments, Charles Schwab, Bank of America, Wells Fargo, and U.S. Bank.
Start by checking with your current bank or brokerage, as many offer this service free of charge for customers. If you’re not a customer, call ahead to confirm availability, fees, and documentation requirements, such as a valid ID and proof of ownership of the securities. Some institutions may require an appointment, especially for non-customers. You can also use the Medallion Signature Guarantee Program’s official locator tool to find nearby providers: www.sta-msgp.org. Keep in mind that not all branches or offices provide this service, so it’s best to verify before visiting. As of 2026, participation in the program remains widespread, but availability may vary by location and institution.
What documents do I need for a medallion signature guarantee?
You typically need a valid government-issued photo ID, the security certificate(s), and a completed transfer or sale form, such as a stock power form or broker transfer request.
Bring the physical certificate if you hold paper stock, or the account details if transferring electronically. Some institutions may also require proof of ownership, such as recent account statements or a letter from your broker. Always confirm the exact requirements with your provider beforehand to avoid delays. For example, Fidelity notes that customers may need the certificate number, number of shares, and the registered owner’s name as it appears on the certificate. Fidelity Support provides a checklist for customers preparing for a medallion guarantee. Missing documents are a common reason for rejected requests, so double-check everything before your visit.
How much does a medallion signature guarantee cost?
A medallion signature guarantee typically costs between $0 and $50 per guarantee, with most major banks and brokerages offering it for free to their customers.
Fees for non-customers can range from $25 to $50, depending on the institution and the complexity of the transaction. For example, Charles Schwab provides complimentary medallion guarantees for account holders, while Bank of America charges a standard fee for non-customers. Schwab Support and Bank of America Help both confirm these pricing structures. Costs are generally consistent across providers because the Medallion Signature Guarantee Program sets participation guidelines. Always ask about fees when scheduling your appointment to avoid surprises.
How long does it take to get a medallion signature guarantee?
A medallion signature guarantee is usually completed on the same day if you visit in person, though processing may take longer if additional verification is required.
If you visit a branch or brokerage office during business hours, you can typically walk out with the guaranteed document within 15 to 30 minutes. However, if the institution needs to verify your identity or ownership details, the process may take up to a few days. Online requests are not accepted; you must appear in person or mail physical documents with a pre-arranged guarantee, which can extend the timeline. To minimize delays, bring all required documents and be prepared to answer questions about the transaction. According to SEC guidelines, transfer agents are required to process valid transfers promptly once a medallion guarantee is provided.
Can I get a medallion signature guarantee online or via mail?
No, you cannot get a medallion signature guarantee online or via mail—you must appear in person at an approved financial institution with valid identification and the required documents.
The Medallion Signature Guarantee Program requires a face-to-face interaction to verify the signer’s identity and prevent fraud. Some institutions may allow you to mail in physical certificates with a pre-scheduled guarantee appointment, but the signature itself must still be verified in person. FINRA emphasizes that this in-person requirement is a core part of the program’s security measures. If you’re unable to visit a branch, consider using a mobile notary or a representative from your brokerage who can assist with in-person verification. Always confirm the institution’s specific policies before mailing documents.
Who accepts a medallion signature guarantee?
A medallion signature guarantee is accepted by transfer agents, brokerage firms, and financial institutions worldwide, including entities like Computershare, EQ Shareowner Services, and Broadridge.
Transfer agents, which handle the transfer of securities, require a medallion guarantee to validate the transaction and release the shares or bonds. Major brokerages such as Fidelity, Vanguard, and TD Ameritrade also accept these guarantees for account transfers or sales. The guarantee is part of the Medallion Signature Guarantee Program, which is recognized by all U.S. financial institutions and many international ones. Without it, transfer agents may reject the transaction, leading to delays. The program’s wide acceptance makes it essential for anyone transferring or selling physical securities. For a list of participating transfer agents, visit the STA Medallion Signature Guarantee Program website.
What are the risks of not getting a medallion signature guarantee?
The primary risk of not getting a medallion signature guarantee is that your transfer or sale of securities will be delayed or rejected, potentially costing you money and time.
Transfer agents and brokerages require this guarantee to confirm that the person signing the document is authorized to transfer the asset and that the signature is legitimate. Without it, you may be unable to sell shares, transfer ownership, or update account registrations. In some cases, fraudsters have exploited weak signatures to steal securities, which is why the guarantee is a critical security measure. The SEC highlights that medallion guarantees help protect investors and financial institutions from fraudulent transfers. If you attempt to transfer securities without a guarantee, you may need to reinitiate the process, further delaying your transaction.
Do all banks offer medallion signature guarantees?
No, not all banks offer medallion signature guarantees—only those that are members of the Medallion Signature Guarantee Program can provide this service.
Participation in the program is voluntary, and smaller banks or credit unions may not offer the service. Even some larger banks restrict medallion guarantees to specific branches or account types. For example, while Bank of America participates in the program, it may not be available at every branch. To find a provider near you, use the STA Medallion Signature Guarantee Program locator. If your bank doesn’t offer the service, you can visit a participating brokerage firm or credit union instead. Always call ahead to confirm availability, as policies can change.
Can a notary public provide a medallion signature guarantee?
No, a notary public cannot provide a medallion signature guarantee—only institutions approved by the Medallion Signature Guarantee Program can issue this type of endorsement.
A notary can verify your identity and witness your signature, but a medallion guarantee requires a financial institution’s participation in the STA program. Notaries lack the authority to verify ownership of securities or to confirm that the signer is legally entitled to transfer the asset. The Medallion Signature Guarantee Program was created specifically to fill this gap, ensuring higher security for financial transactions. FINRA and the SEC both emphasize that only approved institutions can provide medallion guarantees. If you’re unsure, ask your notary whether they are also a medallion guarantee provider—most are not.
What’s the difference between a medallion signature guarantee and a notary?
A medallion signature guarantee provides a higher level of verification than a notary, specifically for securities transactions, ensuring the signer is authorized to transfer the asset.
While a notary verifies your identity and witnesses your signature, a medallion guarantee confirms that the signature is legitimate and that the signer has the legal right to transfer the securities. This additional layer of verification is why transfer agents require a medallion guarantee for processing transactions. The Medallion Signature Guarantee Program was established by the securities industry to reduce fraud and protect investors. STA’s program page explains that the guarantee is backed by financial institutions, making it a more secure option than a notary for securities transfers. Notaries cannot provide this level of assurance for stock or bond transactions.
