Is my stock certificate worth anything?

Old stock certificates shouldn’t be simply thrown away. They can still have value if they represent an existing or merged company, or if they are valued as collectibles. If the stock has split over the years, the amount listed might not be the amount your certificate is worth.

How do I convert stock certificates?

Paper stock certificates can be converted into book-entry accounts. This generally involves delivering the certificates to your broker with a request to add them electronically to your account. You may have to sign the certificates in order to make the conversion.

What is my old stock certificate worth?

Old certificates can be worth anywhere from $10 to $10,000, although most samples will fall in the lower end of the range. Collectors value certificates for the history of the issuing companies and also as art.

Can I cash in old stock certificates?

Not anyone can cash in a stock certificate. Most stocks are issued to an individual, but they do transfer to heirs. In this case, the transfer agent will tell you that you need to provide a probated will if you inherited the certificate.

How do you know if a stock certificate is still valid?

First, look for any signs that suggest the stock certificate is still valid. A valid stock certificate bears the name of the beneficiary. Also, all seals and signatures should be undamaged. In other words, there should be no hole punches or stamps over any of the seals or signatures on the certificate.

How do I find out if old shares are still valid?

Another way to check on a share certificate’s validity is to contact the company registrars whose name should be written on the certificate. Companies use registrars to keep a record of who owns their shares.

How do I convert paper stock certificates to electronics?

How to convert your paper-based certificate to a digital record

Download and complete the DRS Transaction Request Form from the transfer agent’s website;
Submit the form, along with your original physical certificate(s), to the transfer agent as per their instructions;