Frequently Asked Questions:

ATF 4473 Address Verification

q. why am I being asked to verify my address?

Anytime you are transferring a firearm from a pawnshop, whether buying a firearm or redeeming a pawn that contains a firearm, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives requires proof of your current residence IF the address listed on your State ID is incorrect. The firearm cannot be transferred by the FFL (Pocket Pawn) until the address has been verified.

q. what documents can be used to verify my address?

The ATF requires that the proof be a state issued or government issued document. Examples of these documents are: vehicle registration, fishing license, hunting license, pistol permit, tax documents, or voter ID card. All of these documents must be valid, non-expired documents.

q. why can’t I just use my electricity bill or my lease?

Electricity bills and leases are not government issued or state issued documents, therefore they can not be used as proof of address.

q. will I lose my pawn if I don’t get my proof of address?

You are allowed to pay your pawn down completely, so that it does not accrue any more interest, and does not become defaulted. You will still have to get proof of address in order to get your firearm back, however. We easily work with customers who find themselves needing to get proof of residence. The last thing we want is for you to lose your merchandise.

q. will I still be able to buy the firearm I was wanting if I don’t get my proof of address?

No. If your State ID does not have your correct of address, you’ll need to provide proof of address before purchasing the firearm. You can, however, put the firearm on layaway until you get your proof of address. This allows the gun to be held until you are able to get all documents.