The short answer is: Yes, you can fill out Form 4473 at home, but with crucial caveats. While you're permitted to download and complete the form's sections beforehand, simply filling it out isn't the whole process. Understanding the legal implications and required steps is critical to avoiding delays or rejection.
This guide will detail what you can do at home, what you absolutely cannot do at home, and what steps you must take to ensure a smooth and successful ATF application.
What You Can Do at Home with Form 4473
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Download the Form: You can easily download Form 4473 from the ATF website (although we do not provide a link here, per your instructions). Print a clean copy for filling in your information.
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Gather Necessary Information: Before even touching the form, gather all the required personal information, including:
- Your full legal name and address.
- Your date of birth and social security number.
- Your driver's license or other state-issued identification information.
- The make, model, and serial number of the firearm(s) you intend to purchase.
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Carefully Complete Sections I-VII: These sections pertain to your personal information and the firearm transaction. Take your time, ensuring accuracy in every detail. Any errors can cause significant delays or rejection.
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Review Your Completed Form: Before leaving home, meticulously review the completed form for any mistakes or omissions. Double-check your information against your supporting documentation.
What You Absolutely CANNOT Do at Home with Form 4473
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Sign the Form: The form requires a signature in the presence of a licensed firearms dealer. Do not sign it until you are at the licensed dealer's location. Pre-signing the form is a serious offense.
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Submit the Form: You cannot submit the form directly to the ATF. The form is submitted to the licensed firearms dealer who then runs a background check through the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS).
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Complete the Dealer's Portion: The dealer has specific sections of the form to complete. Attempting to fill these out will invalidate the form.
Completing the Process: Your Visit to the Licensed Dealer
Once you've completed your portion of Form 4473 at home, bring the completed form, along with your government-issued photo ID and any other required documentation (this varies by state and dealer), to a licensed firearms dealer.
The dealer will:
- Review your completed form: The dealer will verify the information's accuracy and completeness.
- Complete their sections: The dealer will fill in their portions of the form.
- Initiate the NICS Background Check: The dealer will submit the form and initiate the background check through NICS.
- Witness your signature: You will sign the form in the presence of the dealer.
- Process your firearm purchase: Once the background check is complete and approved, the dealer will process your firearm purchase.
Important Considerations
Filling out Form 4473 accurately and legally is paramount. Any discrepancies or inaccuracies can lead to delays or even the denial of your purchase. If you're unsure about any aspect of the process, contact a licensed firearms dealer for assistance. They are the experts in this process and can answer your questions.
Remember, responsible gun ownership includes understanding and following all applicable laws and regulations. This information is for educational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice. Consult with legal professionals for specific legal guidance.
