How Much Is an FFL Transfer Fee?

Have you been looking for the perfect gun and finally found someone who is able to sell it to you? Congratulations, but unfortunately, transferring gun ownership is not as easy as simply completing the transaction, especially if the person is not from your state or is selling their firearm online.
An FFL transfer is required, and with that comes a fee. Its precise amount will differ depending on what kind of firearm you want to purchase, but on average, you can expect to pay between $20 and $75, with more high-end or specialized firearms exceeding this range.
However, let’s start from the beginning – what is an FFL transfer, and how does the process of selling a firearm look? We’ll discuss all of this and more below.

What Is an FFL Transfer?

In simple words, it’s the transfer of firearm ownership between an FFL (federal firearm license) holder and a buyer or another FFL holder. Having this process in place ensures that every firearms transaction is conducted legally and recorded.
Not every transaction concerning firearms has to involve an FFL transfer. In fact, there are two cases in which that’s a requirement – when you’re purchasing from an online store, or when you want to buy the firearm from an FFL holder located out of state.
In those two situations, your firearm must be sent to the closest FFL holder, who will then transfer ownership to you.

Keep in mind that an FFL is not the same as a firearm license, even though the name can be confusing. When you have a firearm license, you are able to buy and carry a firearm. With an FFL, on the other hand, you are allowed to engage in business that involves manufacturing and sales of firearms.
Here’s a visual of how the two processes look depending on whether you and the buyer have FFL:

How Does an FFL Transfer Process Look?

The process itself is not that complex, but it does involve a few steps:

1. Find the firearm you wish to purchase and arrange the sales.
2. If the seller does not have an FFL, they need to ship it to an FFL holder in your state. You have the right to choose which one, so make sure to conduct thorough research to find a reputable one.
3. Provide the seller with the FFL holder’s contact information. The seller ships the firearm to them.
4. Once the firearm arrives, the FFL holder will get in touch with you. An in-person visit is required to complete the FFL transfer process. You will be required to fill out the ATF Transfer Form 4473 which will determine whether you’re fit to possess a firearm.
5. After the form is filled out the FFL holder will conduct a background check using the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), making you’re not prohibited from owning a firearm.
6. Once everything comes back clear you will have to pay the FFL transfer fee, as well as any other fees associated with the sale. After it’s done, the FFL holder will give you your firearm.

How Much Is an FFL Transfer Fee

So, how much do FFL transfers cost? As we mentioned above, there isn’t a specific amount you have to pay for the FFL transfer, as several factors influence the final cost.

Generally speaking, you can expect to pay between $20 and $75, however, the price can be higher if:

• The FFL dealer specializes in high-end firearms.
• You weren’t able to pick up the firearm on the same day it arrived (storage fees apply).
• FFL holder does not include NICS fees in the base transfer fee.
• There are state-mandated taxes or fees.

Your location can also influence the FFL transfer fee. If you don’t want to be surprised when picking up your firearm, we recommend getting in touch with different FFL holders in your area to inquire about the pricing before you send the details to the seller.

What Is a Pistol Purchase Permit?

A pistol purchase permit is a document that states that you’re able to purchase or be given a firearm. While not required in every state, in some, it is necessary to have it when trying to complete the FFL transfer. An example of that is the District of Columbia, where you need a permit to be able to purchase a firearm.
Make sure to do research on whether your state requires the permit or not, as you won’t be able to receive your firearm if it does and you don’t have it with you. The issue timeline might differ depending on the state, but generally, you can expect it to take 2 to 3 days.

How to Make the FFL Transfer Easier

Want to make sure that everything goes as smoothly as possible during the FFL transfer process? Here are a few tips for that:

• Make sure to contact the FFL holder beforehand to discuss how the process will work so that you won’t be taken by surprise during it.
• Plan ahead – The whole process might take a while, depending on how busy the FFL holder is, so make sure to dedicate at least a few hours to it, just in case.
• Be prepared with a valid ID and necessary documents.
• Familiarize yourself with the ATF Transfer Form 4473 before the appointment so that you can quickly fill it out. Remember to always be truthful when filling out any legal documents, especially ones connected with firearm possession.

How to Find a Reputable FFL Transfer Handler

Looking for a reputable party to handle the FFL transfer process? Here are a few things to consider while doing so:

• Start by searching for ‘FFL dealer near me’. This will show you who in your vicinity can help you with the process. Select a few to compare.
• Once you have shortlisted a few candidates, take a look at their online reviews – in particular, look at how they handled the process in the past and if their previous customers had a positive experience or maybe quite the opposite.
• Contact the FFL holder directly to discuss the whole process in more depth. A reputable FFL dealer will be more than happy to explain how it works.
• If the FFL transfer involves a specialized firearm, make sure to look for one specializing in the specific type you’re acquiring.

FAQ About FFL Transfer Fees

Can FFL transfer fees be negotiated?

Since the FFL transfer fees are typically set by the FFL dealer, they can probably be negotiated, although it depends on whether the FFL holder is willing to do so or wants to keep the established price.

Do I pay the FFL fee upfront?

You pay the fee during your visit to the FFL dealer, as all the documents need to be signed in person.

Can an FFL transfer be denied?

Yes, an FFL transfer can be denied in a number of circumstances. For example:

• When you fail the background check – This can be caused by a record but also due to mental health conditions that deem you unsuitable to carry a firearm.
• When you provide incomplete or untrue information – If any of the information you added to the form is false, your transfer will not only be denied, but lying on this document is considered to be a federal offense.
• FFL discretion – The FFL holder has the right to deny you the transfer if they have any concerns.

What happens afterwards? Well, that depends on whether the firearm was purchased from the FFL’s inventory – if yes, it will simply remain there. If it hasn’t, the firearm needs to go back to its original owner.

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