How to Sell US Shares Held at Computershare from Australia
Selling US shares that are held directly with Computershare US is a process many Australian investors find unfamiliar. Unlike shares held on a trading platform, Computershare is a transfer agent, meaning you must follow specific requirements to complete a transaction. With the correct preparation the process is straightforward, missing documents or incorrect forms can result in significant delays.
This guide explains how shareholders in Australia can sell US shares held at Computershare.
How are you shares held?
Before initiating a sale, identify the format of your shareholding:
· DRS (Direct Registration System): Shares held electronically with Computershare.
· Paper share certificates: Older holdings may be represented as physical certificates, which must be surrendered.
Your most recent DRS statement or Computershare account login will confirm the holding type.
How do you want to sell the shares?
Computershare typically offers two selling options:
1. Sell Through Computershare (Issuer-Sponsored Sale)
Computershare can sell the shares on your behalf for a brokerage-style fee. This is the simplest solution for smaller holdings but does come with its disadvantages.
2. Transfer the Shares to a US Brokerage, Then Sell
This option may offer better execution and lower fees, but requires:
· A US brokerage account
· Additional forms and identity checks
Complete Computershare’s Sale or Transfer Forms.
If proceeding with Computershare’s sale facility, you must complete the Transaction Request Form, which may require:
· Registered shareholder name
· Account number
· Number of shares
· Tax form W-8BEN for foreign shareholders
· Signature and identity documentation
If the shares belong to a deceased estate, a different package is required, along with probate documents.
Obtain a Medallion Guarantee Stamp.
Australian banks cannot issue Medallion Stamps. You must obtain one from an authorised STAMP program provider.
Submit Original Documents.
Computershare US does not accept scanned or emailed documents for most sale or transfer requests. You must send:
· Original signed forms
· Certified ID
· Any documents requiring a Medallion Signature Guarantee
Use a tracked courier, as lost documents will delay or prevent the sale.
Computershare Executes the Sale.
Once the paperwork is accepted:
· Computershare sells the shares on the open market
· Proceeds are paid via cheque or international wire
· You may be required to submit a W-8BEN to reduce US withholding tax
Computershare will provide a transaction confirmation once the sale is completed.
Final Thoughts
Selling US shares held at Computershare from Australia is entirely manageable when you understand the documentation and signature requirements. The key steps providing accurate identity documents, completing the correct forms, and obtaining a Medallion Signature Guarantee where needed ensure the sale is processed smoothly and without unnecessary delays.
With proper preparation, Australian shareholders can reliably sell US-held securities and receive sale proceeds without the complications often associated with US transfer agents.
This information is provided by Carnbrea & Co Limited ABN 33 004 739 655, Australian Financial Services Licence No. 233763. Any advice included in this document is general in nature and does not take into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. Before acting on the advice, you should consider whether it is appropriate to you. If a product we recommend has a Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) or a Prospectus, you should read it before making a decision. Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future performance. Derivatives are leveraged products which means gains and losses are magnified and you may lose substantially more than your initial investment. We do not endorse any information from research providers that we provide to you, unless we specifically say so.