How are shares in a company transferred?
The transfer of shares in a limited company is carried out as follows:
- Stock Transfer Form: The existing shareholder (seller) and the new shareholder (buyer) must complete and sign Form J30 (Stock Transfer Form).
- Stamp duty: If the purchase price exceeds £1,000, stamp duty of 0.5% of the purchase price must be paid to HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC). Further information can be found on the HMRC website.
- Updating the registers: The company updates the Register of Members and issues a share certificate to the new shareholder.
- Notification in the Confirmation Statement: Changes to the shareholder structure are reported to Companies House in the next Confirmation Statement (formerly the Annual Return).
It is advisable to draw up a written contract for the transfer of shares and, where appropriate, to seek legal advice. Please note that the transfer is not registered directly with Companies House, but is administered internally by the company.
Last update on 17.08.2026 by Ronald Brozinsky.
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