NFA Transfer Guide
Everything you need to know about transferring NFA items between private parties
$0 NFA Tax Stamp — January 2026
The One Big Beautiful Bill Act reduced the Form 4 tax stamp from $200 to $0 for suppressors, SBRs, SBSs, and AOWs effective January 1, 2026. This makes private party transfers financially viable for the first time. Background checks and paperwork are still required.
In-State Transfers (Same State)
When both the buyer and seller reside in the same state, a direct private party transfer is possible using ATF Form 4. No FFL is required.
The Process:
- 1Buyer and seller agree on terms (price, item, transfer method)
- 2Buyer creates an ATF eForms account and gathers required documents (photo, fingerprints, ID)
- 3Seller initiates Form 4 on eForms with buyer and item information
- 4Buyer certifies the form using their eForms PIN
- 5ATF processes the application (currently averaging 10-15 days for individuals, 25-30 days for trusts)
- 6Upon approval, seller transfers physical possession to buyer
Interstate Transfers (Different States)
When the buyer and seller are in different states, the transfer must go through a licensed FFL/SOT (Class 3 dealer) in the buyer's state.
The Process:
- 1Buyer finds an FFL/SOT dealer in their state willing to receive NFA transfers
- 2Seller ships the NFA item to the FFL/SOT (via UPS, FedEx, or ShipMyGun)
- 3FFL/SOT receives the item and initiates a Form 4 transfer to the buyer
- 4Buyer completes the same paperwork process (photo, fingerprints, eForms certification)
- 5ATF processes the application
- 6Upon approval, FFL/SOT transfers the item to the buyer
Cost note: With the $0 tax stamp, interstate transfers are now financially viable. Expect FFL/SOT transfer fees of $50-$100 plus shipping costs.
Payment for NFA Transactions
StampSwap does not process payments for NFA item transactions. We recommend:
- GunTab (guntab.com) — Purpose-built escrow for firearms transactions. Protects both buyer and seller.
- Money order or cashier's check — Traditional method for private party sales.
- Cash (in person) — For local, same-state deals.
StampSwap does not provide legal advice. This transfer guide is for informational purposes only and may not reflect the most current laws or ATF procedures. Consult a qualified NFA attorney or your local FFL/SOT dealer for specific legal guidance.