share assignment definition

Stock Assignment: Transferring Ownership Rights with Stock Power

1. introduction to stock assignment and stock power, 2. understanding ownership rights in stock, 3. the role of stock power in transferring ownership, 4. ways to obtain stock power, 5. filling out a stock power form, 6. executing a stock assignment, 7. legal considerations in stock assignment, 8. common mistakes to avoid in stock assignment, 9. conclusion and final thoughts on stock power and stock assignment.

Stock Assignment and Stock Power are two terms that are commonly used in the world of stocks and investments. They are often used interchangeably, but they refer to two different things. Stock assignment is the process of transferring ownership rights of a stock from one party to another, while Stock Power is a legal document that authorizes the transfer of ownership rights from one party to another. In this section, we will discuss in detail what Stock Assignment and Stock Power are, how they work, and why they are important.

1. What is Stock Assignment?

Stock Assignment refers to the transfer of ownership rights of a stock from one party to another. This process is typically used when an investor wants to sell their shares to someone else. The seller must sign an Assignment of Stock Certificate form, which is a legal document that transfers ownership rights to the buyer . The buyer must then present the form to the company's transfer agent, who will update the company's records to reflect the change in ownership.

2. What is Stock Power?

Stock Power is a legal document that authorizes the transfer of ownership rights from one party to another. It is typically used when an investor wants to transfer their shares to a family member or a trust. The seller must sign a stock Power form , which is a legal document that authorizes the transfer of ownership rights to the buyer. The buyer must then present the form to the company's transfer agent, who will update the company's records to reflect the change in ownership.

3. What are the differences between Stock Assignment and Stock Power?

The main difference between Stock Assignment and Stock Power is the purpose for which they are used. Stock Assignment is used when an investor wants to sell their shares to someone else, while Stock Power is used when an investor wants to transfer their shares to a family member or a trust. Another difference is the legal document that is used. Stock Assignment uses an Assignment of Stock Certificate form, while Stock Power uses a Stock Power form.

4. What are the benefits of Stock Assignment and Stock Power?

The main benefit of Stock Assignment and Stock Power is that they provide a legal framework for transferring ownership rights of a stock from one party to another. This ensures that the transfer is done legally and that the new owner has full ownership rights to the stock. It also ensures that the company's records are updated to reflect the change in ownership, which is important for tax purposes.

5. What are the risks of Stock Assignment and Stock Power?

The main risk of Stock Assignment and Stock Power is that they can be used for fraudulent purposes. For example, someone could forge an Assignment of Stock Certificate or a Stock Power form to transfer ownership rights of a stock to themselves. To mitigate this risk, it is important to use a reputable transfer agent and to verify the authenticity of the legal documents.

6. Which option is better: Stock Assignment or Stock Power?

The choice between Stock Assignment and Stock Power depends on the purpose for which they are being used. If an investor wants to sell their shares to someone else, then Stock Assignment is the better option. If an investor wants to transfer their shares to a family member or a trust, then Stock Power is the better option. It is important to use the correct legal document and to ensure that the transfer is done legally to avoid any potential risks .

Introduction to Stock Assignment and Stock Power - Stock Assignment: Transferring Ownership Rights with Stock Power

When it comes to owning stock, it's important to understand the concept of ownership rights. Ownership rights refer to the various privileges that come with owning stock, such as voting rights and the ability to receive dividends. Understanding these rights is crucial for investors who want to make informed decisions about their investments. In this section, we'll take a closer look at ownership rights in stock and what they mean for investors.

1. Voting Rights

One of the most important ownership rights in stock is the right to vote. When you own stock in a company, you are entitled to vote on certain matters that affect the company. These matters can include electing members to the board of directors, approving mergers or acquisitions, and making changes to the company's bylaws. The number of votes you have is typically based on the number of shares you own. For example, if a company has 1,000 shares outstanding and you own 100 shares, you would have 10% of the voting power.

2. Dividend Rights

Another ownership right in stock is the right to receive dividends. Dividends are payments made by a company to its shareholders, usually on a quarterly basis. The amount of the dividend is typically based on the company's profits and can vary from year to year. If you own stock in a company that pays dividends, you are entitled to a portion of those payments based on the number of shares you own.

3. Liquidation Rights

If a company goes bankrupt or is liquidated, shareholders have the right to a portion of the company's assets. This is known as liquidation rights. However, in most cases, shareholders are the last in line to receive payment after creditors and other stakeholders have been paid.

4. Preemptive Rights

Preemptive rights refer to the right of existing shareholders to purchase additional shares in a company before they are offered to the public. This allows shareholders to maintain their ownership percentage in the company and prevent dilution of their shares.

5. Transferability of Ownership Rights

Ownership rights in stock are transferable, meaning you can sell your shares to another investor. When you sell your shares, you transfer your ownership rights to the buyer. However, it's important to note that some ownership rights, such as voting rights, may be restricted for a period of time after the sale.

Understanding ownership rights in stock is crucial for investors who want to make informed decisions about their investments. Voting rights, dividend rights, liquidation rights, preemptive rights, and transferability of ownership rights are all important concepts to understand. When considering investing in a company, it's important to evaluate these ownership rights and consider the potential risks and rewards .

Understanding Ownership Rights in Stock - Stock Assignment: Transferring Ownership Rights with Stock Power

Stock power plays a crucial role in transferring ownership of stocks from one person to another. Without it, the process would be more complicated and time-consuming. In this section, we will explore the different aspects of stock power and its importance in transferring ownership.

1. Definition of Stock Power: A stock power is a legal document that authorizes the transfer of ownership of a stock from the owner (the "grantor") to another person or entity (the "grantee"). It is also known as a stock assignment or a stock power form. The stock power form contains the details of the stock being transferred, the name of the grantee, and the signature of the grantor.

2. importance of Stock power : Stock power is important because it provides proof of ownership transfer and protects both the grantor and the grantee. With a stock power, the grantor can transfer ownership of the stock without physically delivering the stock certificate. This avoids the risk of loss or theft of the stock certificate. On the other hand, the grantee can prove ownership of the stock through the stock power, which is crucial for selling the stock or receiving dividends.

3. Types of stock Power forms : There are two types of stock power forms: "blank" and "special." A blank stock power form is unsigned and does not specify the name of the grantee. It is commonly used for transferring ownership of stocks to a brokerage firm or for depositing the stocks into a trust account. A special stock power form is signed and specifies the name of the grantee. It is used for transferring ownership of stocks to a specific person or entity.

4. How to Fill Out a Stock Power Form: Filling out a stock power form is a simple process. The grantor needs to sign the form and specify the name of the grantee. The grantee also needs to sign the form to acknowledge receipt of the stock. The completed form should be sent to the transfer agent or the brokerage firm that handles the stock.

5. Alternatives to Stock Power: While stock power is the most common way to transfer ownership of stocks, there are alternatives. One option is to use a trust. The grantor can transfer the stock to a trust and name the grantee as the beneficiary. The grantee will receive the stock upon the grantor's death. Another option is to use a will. The grantor can specify in the will that the stock should be transferred to the grantee upon the grantor's death.

Stock power plays an important role in transferring ownership of stocks. It provides proof of ownership transfer and protects both the grantor and the grantee. There are different types of stock power forms, and filling them out is a simple process. While there are alternatives to stock power, it is the most common way to transfer ownership of stocks.

The Role of Stock Power in Transferring Ownership - Stock Assignment: Transferring Ownership Rights with Stock Power

When it comes to transferring ownership rights with stock power , there are various ways to obtain this crucial document. Whether you are a shareholder looking to transfer your ownership or a company seeking to issue new shares, understanding the different methods available can help streamline the process and ensure a smooth transition of ownership. In this section, we will explore some common ways to obtain stock power, providing insights from different perspectives and comparing several options to determine the best approach.

1. Directly from the Transfer Agent:

One of the most straightforward ways to obtain stock power is by contacting the transfer agent directly. The transfer agent is responsible for maintaining the shareholder records and managing the transfer of ownership. They can provide you with the necessary stock power forms, which typically need to be completed, signed, and notarized before submitting them back to the transfer agent. This method ensures that the required documentation is obtained directly from the authorized party, reducing the risk of errors or fraudulent activity.

2. Online Stock Power Forms:

In today's digital era, many companies offer the convenience of online stock power forms. Shareholders can access these forms through the company's website or a designated platform. Online forms often include step-by-step instructions and may even provide a notary service. This option can save time and effort, as there is no need for physical paperwork or mailing documents. However, it is essential to ensure the online platform is secure and trustworthy, protecting sensitive information from potential cyber threats.

3. Brokerage Firms:

If you hold your shares through a brokerage account, you can obtain stock power through your broker. Brokerage firms typically have their own procedures for transferring ownership and may require specific forms or documentation. Contact your broker to inquire about the process and any associated fees. While this option may be convenient for shareholders who already have a brokerage account, it may not be the best choice for those who prefer a direct relationship with the transfer agent or have shares held outside of a brokerage account.

4. In-person at a Financial Institution:

Some shareholders may prefer to obtain stock power in person, either at their bank or another financial institution . This option allows for face-to-face interaction and immediate access to the necessary forms. However, not all financial institutions offer this service, so it is important to check beforehand. Additionally, consider any associated fees and potential time constraints when opting for this method.

Comparing the different ways to obtain stock power, the best option ultimately depends on your specific circumstances and preferences. If you have a direct relationship with the transfer agent, obtaining stock power directly from them ensures accuracy and eliminates potential intermediaries. On the other hand, online stock power forms can offer convenience and ease of use, particularly for tech-savvy individuals. Brokerage firms provide a viable option for those already utilizing their services, while in-person visits to financial institutions may be preferred by individuals seeking a personal touch.

Understanding the various ways to obtain stock power is crucial for shareholders and companies alike. By exploring the options available and considering the specific requirements and preferences, individuals can choose the most suitable method to transfer ownership rights efficiently and securely.

Ways to Obtain Stock Power - Stock Assignment: Transferring Ownership Rights with Stock Power

When transferring ownership rights with a stock power, there are several important steps to follow. Filling out the stock power form is one of the most crucial steps in this process, as it legally transfers ownership of the stock from one party to another. In this section, we will explore the process of filling out a stock power form, including what information is required, how to properly fill it out, and what to do after it is completed.

1. Understanding the Stock Power Form

A stock power form is a legal document that is used to transfer ownership of stock from one party to another. It is typically used in situations where the actual stock certificate is not available, such as when the stock is held in a brokerage account. The stock power form contains important information about the stock, such as the name of the company, the number of shares being transferred, and the name of the current owner.

2. Gathering the Required Information

Before filling out the stock power form, it is important to gather all of the necessary information. This may include the name of the company that issued the stock, the number of shares being transferred, and the name and contact information of the current owner. It is also important to have the recipient's information on hand, including their name and contact information.

3. Filling Out the Form

When filling out the stock power form, it is important to be accurate and thorough. The form will typically ask for the name and address of the current owner, as well as the name and address of the recipient. It may also ask for the number of shares being transferred, the date of the transfer, and other relevant information. It is important to double-check all of the information before submitting the form.

4. Submitting the Form

Once the stock power form has been filled out, it should be signed and dated by the current owner. Depending on the situation, the form may need to be notarized or witnessed by a third party. The completed form should be submitted to the appropriate parties, such as the brokerage firm or transfer agent.

5. Considerations When Filling Out a Stock Power Form

When filling out a stock power form, it is important to consider several factors. For example, if the stock is being transferred as a gift, it may be subject to gift taxes. It is also important to consider any restrictions or limitations on the transfer of the stock, such as those imposed by the company or by applicable laws and regulations.

6. Best Practices for Filling Out a Stock Power Form

To ensure that the stock power form is filled out correctly and completely, it is important to follow best practices. This may include reviewing the form carefully before submitting it, double-checking all of the information, and seeking professional advice if necessary. It is also important to keep copies of all relevant documents, such as the stock power form and any supporting documentation.

Filling out a stock power form is an important step in transferring ownership rights with a stock power. By following the steps outlined above and considering the relevant factors, it is possible to ensure that the transfer is completed correctly and legally.

Filling out a Stock Power Form - Stock Assignment: Transferring Ownership Rights with Stock Power

Executing a stock assignment is a process that involves transferring ownership rights from one party to another. It is a crucial step in the stock transfer process, and it requires both the assignor and the assignee to follow specific procedures to ensure a smooth transfer of ownership . In this section, we will explore the steps involved in executing a stock assignment and some insights from different points of view.

1. Review the Stock Power Form

Before executing a stock assignment, it is essential to review the stock power form carefully. This document is a legal instrument that transfers ownership rights from the assignor to the assignee. It contains important information, such as the name of the assignor, the name of the assignee, the number of shares being transferred, and the date of the transfer. Both the assignor and the assignee must sign the stock power form in the presence of a notary public.

2. Choose the Right Type of Stock Assignment

There are two types of stock assignments: a full assignment and a limited assignment. A full assignment transfers all ownership rights from the assignor to the assignee, while a limited assignment transfers only specific ownership rights, such as the right to vote or receive dividends. The type of stock assignment you choose depends on your specific needs and circumstances.

3. Consider the Tax Implications

Executing a stock assignment may have tax implications for both the assignor and the assignee. The assignor may be subject to capital gains tax if the stock has appreciated in value since it was acquired. The assignee may be subject to income tax if they receive dividends or sell the stock at a profit. It is important to consult with a tax professional to understand the tax implications of executing a stock assignment.

4. Choose the Right Method of Transfer

There are several methods of transferring ownership rights, including physical delivery, book-entry transfer, and electronic transfer. Physical delivery involves the physical delivery of stock certificates from the assignor to the assignee. Book-entry transfer involves the transfer of ownership rights through an intermediary, such as a stock transfer agent . Electronic transfer involves the transfer of ownership rights through an electronic network, such as the Depository Trust Company (DTC). The method of transfer you choose depends on your specific needs and circumstances.

5. seek Professional assistance

Executing a stock assignment can be a complex process, and it is advisable to seek professional assistance. A stock transfer agent can help you navigate the transfer process and ensure that all necessary procedures are followed. A tax professional can help you understand the tax implications of executing a stock assignment. Seeking professional assistance can help ensure a smooth transfer of ownership rights.

Executing a stock assignment is an essential step in transferring ownership rights from one party to another. It requires careful consideration of the stock power form, the type of stock assignment, the tax implications, the method of transfer, and professional assistance. By following these steps, you can ensure a smooth transfer of ownership rights.

Executing a Stock Assignment - Stock Assignment: Transferring Ownership Rights with Stock Power

When transferring ownership rights with a stock power, legal considerations must be taken into account to ensure a smooth and legally valid transaction. These considerations can vary depending on the type of stock being transferred and the parties involved. Here are some of the key legal considerations to keep in mind:

1. Type of Stock: The type of stock being transferred will impact the legal requirements for the transfer . For example, transferring common stock may require different legal documentation than transferring preferred stock. It's important to understand the specific requirements for the type of stock being transferred.

2. Parties Involved: The parties involved in the transfer will also impact the legal considerations . For example, transferring stock between family members may require different documentation than transferring stock between unrelated parties. It's important to understand the legal requirements based on the parties involved.

3. Tax Implications: The transfer of stock ownership can have tax implications for both the transferor and transferee. It's important to understand the tax consequences of the transfer and to consult with a tax professional if necessary.

4. Securities Laws: The transfer of stock ownership is subject to certain securities laws, including the securities act of 1933 and the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. These laws regulate the sale and transfer of securities and may require certain disclosures or filings.

5. State Laws: State laws may also impact the transfer of stock ownership. For example, some states require specific documentation or filings for stock transfers. It's important to understand the state laws that apply to the transfer.

When considering the legal considerations for stock assignment, it's important to consult with a legal professional to ensure compliance with all applicable laws and regulations. A legal professional can also help determine the best option for transferring ownership rights with a stock power.

Options for transferring ownership rights with a stock power include:

1. Direct Transfer: A direct transfer involves transferring the stock from one party to another without the involvement of a broker or intermediary. This option may be simpler and less expensive, but may require more legal documentation and may not be available for all types of stock.

2. Broker-Assisted Transfer: A broker-assisted transfer involves using a broker to facilitate the transfer of stock ownership. This option may be more expensive, but may be easier and more efficient, particularly for larger transfers or transfers involving multiple parties.

3. Gift Transfer: A gift transfer involves transferring ownership of the stock as a gift. This option may have tax implications for the transferor and transferee and may require additional legal documentation.

Ultimately, the best option for transferring ownership rights with a stock power will depend on the specific circumstances of the transfer. Consulting with a legal professional can help determine the most appropriate option and ensure compliance with all applicable legal requirements.

Legal Considerations in Stock Assignment - Stock Assignment: Transferring Ownership Rights with Stock Power

When it comes to stock assignment, there are several mistakes that people make which can lead to legal and financial complications. It is important to understand the process of transferring ownership rights with stock power and avoid these common mistakes.

1. Failing to Complete the Stock Assignment Form Correctly

One of the most common mistakes made in stock assignment is failing to complete the stock assignment form correctly. This can lead to delays in the transfer of ownership rights and can result in legal complications. It is important to ensure that all the required fields are filled out correctly and that the form is signed and dated by the appropriate parties.

2. Not Having a Properly Endorsed Stock Certificate

Another mistake that people make is not having a properly endorsed stock certificate. This is important because the stock certificate is the physical representation of the ownership rights of the stock. It is important to ensure that the certificate is properly endorsed by the seller and that the buyer has the certificate in their possession.

3. Not understanding the Tax implications of Stock Assignment

Another mistake that people make is not understanding the tax implications of stock assignment. Depending on the circumstances, there may be tax implications for both the buyer and the seller. It is important to consult with a tax professional to understand the tax implications before completing the stock assignment.

4. Not Using a Broker or Transfer Agent

Some people try to complete the stock assignment themselves without using a broker or transfer agent. This can lead to complications and delays in the transfer of ownership rights. It is recommended to use a broker or transfer agent to ensure that the process is completed correctly and efficiently.

5. Not Verifying the Identity of the Buyer or Seller

Finally, it is important to verify the identity of the buyer or seller before completing the stock assignment. This can help to prevent fraud and ensure that the transfer of ownership rights is legitimate. It is recommended to use a reputable broker or transfer agent who can help with this process.

Stock assignment can be a complicated process, but by avoiding these common mistakes, it can be completed successfully. It is important to ensure that the stock assignment form is completed correctly, that the stock certificate is properly endorsed, that the tax implications are understood, and that a reputable broker or transfer agent is used. By following these guidelines, the transfer of ownership rights can be completed efficiently and without complications.

Common Mistakes to Avoid in Stock Assignment - Stock Assignment: Transferring Ownership Rights with Stock Power

Stock Power and Stock Assignment are important concepts in the world of finance and investment. These concepts help investors transfer ownership rights of their stocks to another party. In this blog post, we have discussed the details of these concepts and their implications. We have also analyzed the different perspectives and provided insights on how to use these concepts effectively.

1. Importance of Stock Power and Stock Assignment

Stock Power and Stock Assignment are essential tools for investors who want to transfer ownership rights of their stocks to another party. These concepts enable investors to transfer their stocks without having to go through the hassle of selling them. This is particularly useful in cases where the investor wants to gift the stocks to someone or transfer them to another account.

2. Understanding Stock Power

Stock Power is a legal document that enables the transfer of ownership rights of a stock from one party to another. It is an endorsement that is required by the brokerage firm to transfer the ownership of the stock. The stock power must be signed by the owner of the stock and must be submitted along with the certificate of the stock to the brokerage firm.

3. Understanding Stock Assignment

Stock Assignment is a process where the ownership rights of a stock are transferred from one party to another. The process involves filling out a transfer form and submitting it to the brokerage firm. The transfer form must be signed by the owner of the stock and must be submitted along with the certificate of the stock.

4. pros and Cons of stock Power and Stock Assignment

Stock Power and Stock Assignment have their own advantages and disadvantages. Stock Power is a simpler process that requires the submission of a single document, whereas Stock Assignment involves filling out a transfer form. However, Stock Power can only be used if the certificate of the stock is in the possession of the owner, whereas Stock Assignment can be used even if the certificate is lost or misplaced.

5. Best Option

The best option depends on the situation. If the certificate of the stock is in the possession of the owner, Stock Power is the best option. However, if the certificate is lost or misplaced, Stock Assignment is the better option. In any case, it is important to consult with the brokerage firm to determine the best option.

Stock Power and Stock Assignment are important concepts that enable investors to transfer ownership rights of their stocks. These concepts have their own advantages and disadvantages, and the best option depends on the situation. It is important to consult with the brokerage firm to determine the best option.

Conclusion and Final Thoughts on Stock Power and Stock Assignment - Stock Assignment: Transferring Ownership Rights with Stock Power

Read Other Blogs

Hijjama Center Community is a network of entrepreneurs, mentors, investors, and experts who share a...

Equity financing and equity swaps are two essential components of alternative funding solutions in...

Why Mentorship Matters for Junior Companies For junior companies, having a mentor can be the...

Loyalty programs have become an integral part of modern business strategies, aiming to foster...

First aid is not only a moral obligation, but also a legal one for businesses. According to the...

1. Economic indicators play a crucial role in understanding the overall health and performance of...

When it comes to investment, there are various options available out there. One of them is tontine...

One of the most crucial factors that determines the success or failure of an entrepreneurial...

Embarking on the journey of establishing a motorbike repair business is akin to preparing for a...

• assignments basic law

Assignments: The Basic Law

The assignment of a right or obligation is a common contractual event under the law and the right to assign (or prohibition against assignments) is found in the majority of agreements, leases and business structural documents created in the United States.

As with many terms commonly used, people are familiar with the term but often are not aware or fully aware of what the terms entail. The concept of assignment of rights and obligations is one of those simple concepts with wide ranging ramifications in the contractual and business context and the law imposes severe restrictions on the validity and effect of assignment in many instances. Clear contractual provisions concerning assignments and rights should be in every document and structure created and this article will outline why such drafting is essential for the creation of appropriate and effective contracts and structures.

The reader should first read the article on Limited Liability Entities in the United States and Contracts since the information in those articles will be assumed in this article.

Basic Definitions and Concepts:

An assignment is the transfer of rights held by one party called the “assignor” to another party called the “assignee.” The legal nature of the assignment and the contractual terms of the agreement between the parties determines some additional rights and liabilities that accompany the assignment. The assignment of rights under a contract usually completely transfers the rights to the assignee to receive the benefits accruing under the contract. Ordinarily, the term assignment is limited to the transfer of rights that are intangible, like contractual rights and rights connected with property. Merchants Service Co. v. Small Claims Court , 35 Cal. 2d 109, 113-114 (Cal. 1950).

An assignment will generally be permitted under the law unless there is an express prohibition against assignment in the underlying contract or lease. Where assignments are permitted, the assignor need not consult the other party to the contract but may merely assign the rights at that time. However, an assignment cannot have any adverse effect on the duties of the other party to the contract, nor can it diminish the chance of the other party receiving complete performance. The assignor normally remains liable unless there is an agreement to the contrary by the other party to the contract.

The effect of a valid assignment is to remove privity between the assignor and the obligor and create privity between the obligor and the assignee. Privity is usually defined as a direct and immediate contractual relationship. See Merchants case above.

Further, for the assignment to be effective in most jurisdictions, it must occur in the present. One does not normally assign a future right; the assignment vests immediate rights and obligations.

No specific language is required to create an assignment so long as the assignor makes clear his/her intent to assign identified contractual rights to the assignee. Since expensive litigation can erupt from ambiguous or vague language, obtaining the correct verbiage is vital. An agreement must manifest the intent to transfer rights and can either be oral or in writing and the rights assigned must be certain.

Note that an assignment of an interest is the transfer of some identifiable property, claim, or right from the assignor to the assignee. The assignment operates to transfer to the assignee all of the rights, title, or interest of the assignor in the thing assigned. A transfer of all rights, title, and interests conveys everything that the assignor owned in the thing assigned and the assignee stands in the shoes of the assignor. Knott v. McDonald’s Corp ., 985 F. Supp. 1222 (N.D. Cal. 1997)

The parties must intend to effectuate an assignment at the time of the transfer, although no particular language or procedure is necessary. As long ago as the case of National Reserve Co. v. Metropolitan Trust Co ., 17 Cal. 2d 827 (Cal. 1941), the court held that in determining what rights or interests pass under an assignment, the intention of the parties as manifested in the instrument is controlling.

The intent of the parties to an assignment is a question of fact to be derived not only from the instrument executed by the parties but also from the surrounding circumstances. When there is no writing to evidence the intention to transfer some identifiable property, claim, or right, it is necessary to scrutinize the surrounding circumstances and parties’ acts to ascertain their intentions. Strosberg v. Brauvin Realty Servs., 295 Ill. App. 3d 17 (Ill. App. Ct. 1st Dist. 1998)

The general rule applicable to assignments of choses in action is that an assignment, unless there is a contract to the contrary, carries with it all securities held by the assignor as collateral to the claim and all rights incidental thereto and vests in the assignee the equitable title to such collateral securities and incidental rights. An unqualified assignment of a contract or chose in action, however, with no indication of the intent of the parties, vests in the assignee the assigned contract or chose and all rights and remedies incidental thereto.

More examples: In Strosberg v. Brauvin Realty Servs ., 295 Ill. App. 3d 17 (Ill. App. Ct. 1st Dist. 1998), the court held that the assignee of a party to a subordination agreement is entitled to the benefits and is subject to the burdens of the agreement. In Florida E. C. R. Co. v. Eno , 99 Fla. 887 (Fla. 1930), the court held that the mere assignment of all sums due in and of itself creates no different or other liability of the owner to the assignee than that which existed from the owner to the assignor.

And note that even though an assignment vests in the assignee all rights, remedies, and contingent benefits which are incidental to the thing assigned, those which are personal to the assignor and for his sole benefit are not assigned. Rasp v. Hidden Valley Lake, Inc ., 519 N.E.2d 153, 158 (Ind. Ct. App. 1988). Thus, if the underlying agreement provides that a service can only be provided to X, X cannot assign that right to Y.

Novation Compared to Assignment:

Although the difference between a novation and an assignment may appear narrow, it is an essential one. “Novation is a act whereby one party transfers all its obligations and benefits under a contract to a third party.” In a novation, a third party successfully substitutes the original party as a party to the contract. “When a contract is novated, the other contracting party must be left in the same position he was in prior to the novation being made.”

A sublease is the transfer when a tenant retains some right of reentry onto the leased premises. However, if the tenant transfers the entire leasehold estate, retaining no right of reentry or other reversionary interest, then the transfer is an assignment. The assignor is normally also removed from liability to the landlord only if the landlord consents or allowed that right in the lease. In a sublease, the original tenant is not released from the obligations of the original lease.

Equitable Assignments:

An equitable assignment is one in which one has a future interest and is not valid at law but valid in a court of equity. In National Bank of Republic v. United Sec. Life Ins. & Trust Co. , 17 App. D.C. 112 (D.C. Cir. 1900), the court held that to constitute an equitable assignment of a chose in action, the following has to occur generally: anything said written or done, in pursuance of an agreement and for valuable consideration, or in consideration of an antecedent debt, to place a chose in action or fund out of the control of the owner, and appropriate it to or in favor of another person, amounts to an equitable assignment. Thus, an agreement, between a debtor and a creditor, that the debt shall be paid out of a specific fund going to the debtor may operate as an equitable assignment.

In Egyptian Navigation Co. v. Baker Invs. Corp. , 2008 U.S. Dist. LEXIS 30804 (S.D.N.Y. Apr. 14, 2008), the court stated that an equitable assignment occurs under English law when an assignor, with an intent to transfer his/her right to a chose in action, informs the assignee about the right so transferred.

An executory agreement or a declaration of trust are also equitable assignments if unenforceable as assignments by a court of law but enforceable by a court of equity exercising sound discretion according to the circumstances of the case. Since California combines courts of equity and courts of law, the same court would hear arguments as to whether an equitable assignment had occurred. Quite often, such relief is granted to avoid fraud or unjust enrichment.

Note that obtaining an assignment through fraudulent means invalidates the assignment. Fraud destroys the validity of everything into which it enters. It vitiates the most solemn contracts, documents, and even judgments. Walker v. Rich , 79 Cal. App. 139 (Cal. App. 1926). If an assignment is made with the fraudulent intent to delay, hinder, and defraud creditors, then it is void as fraudulent in fact. See our article on Transfers to Defraud Creditors .

But note that the motives that prompted an assignor to make the transfer will be considered as immaterial and will constitute no defense to an action by the assignee, if an assignment is considered as valid in all other respects.

Enforceability of Assignments:

Whether a right under a contract is capable of being transferred is determined by the law of the place where the contract was entered into. The validity and effect of an assignment is determined by the law of the place of assignment. The validity of an assignment of a contractual right is governed by the law of the state with the most significant relationship to the assignment and the parties.

In some jurisdictions, the traditional conflict of laws rules governing assignments has been rejected and the law of the place having the most significant contacts with the assignment applies. In Downs v. American Mut. Liability Ins. Co ., 14 N.Y.2d 266 (N.Y. 1964), a wife and her husband separated and the wife obtained a judgment of separation from the husband in New York. The judgment required the husband to pay a certain yearly sum to the wife. The husband assigned 50 percent of his future salary, wages, and earnings to the wife. The agreement authorized the employer to make such payments to the wife.

After the husband moved from New York, the wife learned that he was employed by an employer in Massachusetts. She sent the proper notice and demanded payment under the agreement. The employer refused and the wife brought an action for enforcement. The court observed that Massachusetts did not prohibit assignment of the husband’s wages. Moreover, Massachusetts law was not controlling because New York had the most significant relationship with the assignment. Therefore, the court ruled in favor of the wife.

Therefore, the validity of an assignment is determined by looking to the law of the forum with the most significant relationship to the assignment itself. To determine the applicable law of assignments, the court must look to the law of the state which is most significantly related to the principal issue before it.

Assignment of Contractual Rights:

Generally, the law allows the assignment of a contractual right unless the substitution of rights would materially change the duty of the obligor, materially increase the burden or risk imposed on the obligor by the contract, materially impair the chance of obtaining return performance, or materially reduce the value of the performance to the obligor. Restat 2d of Contracts, § 317(2)(a). This presumes that the underlying agreement is silent on the right to assign.

If the contract specifically precludes assignment, the contractual right is not assignable. Whether a contract is assignable is a matter of contractual intent and one must look to the language used by the parties to discern that intent.

In the absence of an express provision to the contrary, the rights and duties under a bilateral executory contract that does not involve personal skill, trust, or confidence may be assigned without the consent of the other party. But note that an assignment is invalid if it would materially alter the other party’s duties and responsibilities. Once an assignment is effective, the assignee stands in the shoes of the assignor and assumes all of assignor’s rights. Hence, after a valid assignment, the assignor’s right to performance is extinguished, transferred to assignee, and the assignee possesses the same rights, benefits, and remedies assignor once possessed. Robert Lamb Hart Planners & Architects v. Evergreen, Ltd. , 787 F. Supp. 753 (S.D. Ohio 1992).

On the other hand, an assignee’s right against the obligor is subject to “all of the limitations of the assignor’s right, all defenses thereto, and all set-offs and counterclaims which would have been available against the assignor had there been no assignment, provided that these defenses and set-offs are based on facts existing at the time of the assignment.” See Robert Lamb , case, above.

The power of the contract to restrict assignment is broad. Usually, contractual provisions that restrict assignment of the contract without the consent of the obligor are valid and enforceable, even when there is statutory authorization for the assignment. The restriction of the power to assign is often ineffective unless the restriction is expressly and precisely stated. Anti-assignment clauses are effective only if they contain clear, unambiguous language of prohibition. Anti-assignment clauses protect only the obligor and do not affect the transaction between the assignee and assignor.

Usually, a prohibition against the assignment of a contract does not prevent an assignment of the right to receive payments due, unless circumstances indicate the contrary. Moreover, the contracting parties cannot, by a mere non-assignment provision, prevent the effectual alienation of the right to money which becomes due under the contract.

A contract provision prohibiting or restricting an assignment may be waived, or a party may so act as to be estopped from objecting to the assignment, such as by effectively ratifying the assignment. The power to void an assignment made in violation of an anti-assignment clause may be waived either before or after the assignment. See our article on Contracts.

Noncompete Clauses and Assignments:

Of critical import to most buyers of businesses is the ability to ensure that key employees of the business being purchased cannot start a competing company. Some states strictly limit such clauses, some do allow them. California does restrict noncompete clauses, only allowing them under certain circumstances. A common question in those states that do allow them is whether such rights can be assigned to a new party, such as the buyer of the buyer.

A covenant not to compete, also called a non-competitive clause, is a formal agreement prohibiting one party from performing similar work or business within a designated area for a specified amount of time. This type of clause is generally included in contracts between employer and employee and contracts between buyer and seller of a business.

Many workers sign a covenant not to compete as part of the paperwork required for employment. It may be a separate document similar to a non-disclosure agreement, or buried within a number of other clauses in a contract. A covenant not to compete is generally legal and enforceable, although there are some exceptions and restrictions.

Whenever a company recruits skilled employees, it invests a significant amount of time and training. For example, it often takes years before a research chemist or a design engineer develops a workable knowledge of a company’s product line, including trade secrets and highly sensitive information. Once an employee gains this knowledge and experience, however, all sorts of things can happen. The employee could work for the company until retirement, accept a better offer from a competing company or start up his or her own business.

A covenant not to compete may cover a number of potential issues between employers and former employees. Many companies spend years developing a local base of customers or clients. It is important that this customer base not fall into the hands of local competitors. When an employee signs a covenant not to compete, he or she usually agrees not to use insider knowledge of the company’s customer base to disadvantage the company. The covenant not to compete often defines a broad geographical area considered off-limits to former employees, possibly tens or hundreds of miles.

Another area of concern covered by a covenant not to compete is a potential ‘brain drain’. Some high-level former employees may seek to recruit others from the same company to create new competition. Retention of employees, especially those with unique skills or proprietary knowledge, is vital for most companies, so a covenant not to compete may spell out definite restrictions on the hiring or recruiting of employees.

A covenant not to compete may also define a specific amount of time before a former employee can seek employment in a similar field. Many companies offer a substantial severance package to make sure former employees are financially solvent until the terms of the covenant not to compete have been met.

Because the use of a covenant not to compete can be controversial, a handful of states, including California, have largely banned this type of contractual language. The legal enforcement of these agreements falls on individual states, and many have sided with the employee during arbitration or litigation. A covenant not to compete must be reasonable and specific, with defined time periods and coverage areas. If the agreement gives the company too much power over former employees or is ambiguous, state courts may declare it to be overbroad and therefore unenforceable. In such case, the employee would be free to pursue any employment opportunity, including working for a direct competitor or starting up a new company of his or her own.

It has been held that an employee’s covenant not to compete is assignable where one business is transferred to another, that a merger does not constitute an assignment of a covenant not to compete, and that a covenant not to compete is enforceable by a successor to the employer where the assignment does not create an added burden of employment or other disadvantage to the employee. However, in some states such as Hawaii, it has also been held that a covenant not to compete is not assignable and under various statutes for various reasons that such covenants are not enforceable against an employee by a successor to the employer. Hawaii v. Gannett Pac. Corp. , 99 F. Supp. 2d 1241 (D. Haw. 1999)

It is vital to obtain the relevant law of the applicable state before drafting or attempting to enforce assignment rights in this particular area.

Conclusion:

In the current business world of fast changing structures, agreements, employees and projects, the ability to assign rights and obligations is essential to allow flexibility and adjustment to new situations. Conversely, the ability to hold a contracting party into the deal may be essential for the future of a party. Thus, the law of assignments and the restriction on same is a critical aspect of every agreement and every structure. This basic provision is often glanced at by the contracting parties, or scribbled into the deal at the last minute but can easily become the most vital part of the transaction.

As an example, one client of ours came into the office outraged that his co venturer on a sizable exporting agreement, who had excellent connections in Brazil, had elected to pursue another venture instead and assigned the agreement to a party unknown to our client and without the business contacts our client considered vital. When we examined the handwritten agreement our client had drafted in a restaurant in Sao Paolo, we discovered there was no restriction on assignment whatsoever…our client had not even considered that right when drafting the agreement after a full day of work.

One choses who one does business with carefully…to ensure that one’s choice remains the party on the other side of the contract, one must master the ability to negotiate proper assignment provisions.

Founded in 1939, our law firm combines the ability to represent clients in domestic or international matters with the personal interaction with clients that is traditional to a long established law firm.

Read more about our firm

© 2024, Stimmel, Stimmel & Roeser, All rights reserved  | Terms of Use | Site by Bay Design

Understanding an assignment and assumption agreement

Need to assign your rights and duties under a contract? Learn more about the basics of an assignment and assumption agreement.

Get your assignment of agreement

by   Belle Wong, J.D.

Belle Wong, is a freelance writer specializing in small business, personal finance, banking, and tech/SAAS. She ...

Read more...

Updated on: November 24, 2023 · 3 min read

The assignment and assumption agreement

The basics of assignment and assumption, filling in the assignment and assumption agreement.

While every business should try its best to meet its contractual obligations, changes in circumstance can happen that could necessitate transferring your rights and duties under a contract to another party who would be better able to meet those obligations.

If you find yourself in such a situation, and your contract provides for the possibility of assignment, an assignment and assumption agreement can be a good option for preserving your relationship with the party you initially contracted with, while at the same time enabling you to pass on your contractual rights and duties to a third party.

An assignment and assumption agreement is used after a contract is signed, in order to transfer one of the contracting party's rights and obligations to a third party who was not originally a party to the contract. The party making the assignment is called the assignor, while the third party accepting the assignment is known as the assignee.

In order for an assignment and assumption agreement to be valid, the following criteria need to be met:

• The initial contract must provide for the possibility of assignment by one of the initial contracting parties.
• The assignor must agree to assign their rights and duties under the contract to the assignee.
• The assignee must agree to accept, or "assume," those contractual rights and duties.
• The other party to the initial contract must consent to the transfer of rights and obligations to the assignee.

A standard assignment and assumption contract is often a good starting point if you need to enter into an assignment and assumption agreement. However, for more complex situations, such as an assignment and amendment agreement in which several of the initial contract terms will be modified, or where only some, but not all, rights and duties will be assigned, it's a good idea to retain the services of an attorney who can help you draft an agreement that will meet all your needs.

When you're ready to enter into an assignment and assumption agreement, it's a good idea to have a firm grasp of the basics of assignment:

• First, carefully read and understand the assignment and assumption provision in the initial contract. Contracts vary widely in their language on this topic, and each contract will have specific criteria that must be met in order for a valid assignment of rights to take place.
• All parties to the agreement should carefully review the document to make sure they each know what they're agreeing to, and to help ensure that all important terms and conditions have been addressed in the agreement.
• Until the agreement is signed by all the parties involved, the assignor will still be obligated for all responsibilities stated in the initial contract. If you are the assignor, you need to ensure that you continue with business as usual until the assignment and assumption agreement has been properly executed.

Unless you're dealing with a complex assignment situation, working with a template often is a good way to begin drafting an assignment and assumption agreement that will meet your needs. Generally speaking, your agreement should include the following information:

• Identification of the existing agreement, including details such as the date it was signed and the parties involved, and the parties' rights to assign under this initial agreement
• The effective date of the assignment and assumption agreement
• Identification of the party making the assignment (the assignor), and a statement of their desire to assign their rights under the initial contract
• Identification of the third party accepting the assignment (the assignee), and a statement of their acceptance of the assignment
• Identification of the other initial party to the contract, and a statement of their consent to the assignment and assumption agreement
• A section stating that the initial contract is continued; meaning, that, other than the change to the parties involved, all terms and conditions in the original contract stay the same

In addition to these sections that are specific to an assignment and assumption agreement, your contract should also include standard contract language, such as clauses about indemnification, future amendments, and governing law.

Sometimes circumstances change, and as a business owner you may find yourself needing to assign your rights and duties under a contract to another party. A properly drafted assignment and assumption agreement can help you make the transfer smoothly while, at the same time, preserving the cordiality of your initial business relationship under the original contract.

You may also like

What does 'inc.' mean in a company name?

'Inc.' in a company name means the business is incorporated, but what does that entail, exactly? Here's everything you need to know about incorporating your business.

October 9, 2023 · 10min read

How to write a will: A comprehensive guide to will writing

Writing a will is one of the most important things you can do for yourself and for your loved ones, and it can be done in just minutes. Are you ready to get started?

February 9, 2024 · 11min read

How to start an LLC in 7 steps: A complete guide for 2024

It's easy to create a new LLC by filing paperwork with the state. But to set yourself up for success, you'll also need to think about your business name, finances, an operating agreement, and licenses and permits. Here's a step-by-step guide.

March 21, 2024 · 20min read

MANAGING YOUR MONEY

2022 tax center.

• Share It Share Tweet Post Email Print

Difference Between a Share Pledge & an Assignment

What Is a Collateral Assignment Release?

Most people take out loans at some point in life, though few of us possess a thorough understanding of the loan industry. Myriad terms arise in loan dealings, many of them unfamiliar or confusing. Among these are “share pledge” and “assignment.” Though these terms may both relate to the loan industry, they are fundamentally different.

Share Pledge

A share pledge constitutes the process of providing collateral in exchange for a loan. For instance, a publicly traded company may pledge stock as collateral for a loan. The company holds the stock under the name of the loan provider for the duration of the loan. Any loan made against such collateral constitutes a share-pledge loan. Credit unions provide share-pledge loans to account holders against the balance of a savings account. This term may also refer to a situation in which a company pledges shares to an organization or individual.

An assignment constitutes an action taken with a contract. Assignment occurs when the owner of a contract, known as the assignor, gives a contract to another party, known as the assignee. The assignee assumes all responsibilities and benefits of the contract. When it comes to loans, assignments relate primarily to mortgages and the transfer of a mortgage contract from one party to another. Mortgages and other contracts sometimes contain provisions limiting or stipulating conditions for assignment.

Fundamental Differences

Share-pledge loans don’t related to an assignment at all. Share pledge loans only occur when you pledge savings or shares in a publicly traded company as collateral for a loan. An assignment occurs when a contract passes from one party to another. While a share pledge and an assignment constitute actions, a share-pledge loan is a type of loan, making it fundamentally different from an assignment – one is a document, the other an action taken with a document.

Other Differences

Other differences exist between an assignment and a share pledge. Share pledges and share-pledge loans relate primarily to personal or corporate finance. An assignment, on the other hand, relates to any contract. With regard to loans, assignments relate to real estate law and the transfer of mortgages. Furthermore, a share pledge may actually constitute the pledging of shares unrelated to loans or collateral, hence the term holds two meanings. An assignment, with regard to contracts, holds only one meaning.

Will Gish slipped into itinerancy and writing in 2005. His work can be found on various websites. He is the primary entertainment writer for "College Gentleman" magazine and contributes content to various other music and film websites. Gish has a Bachelor of Arts in art history from University of Massachusetts, Amherst.

• Search Search Please fill out this field.

What Is Share Capital?

Understanding share capital, the bottom line.

• Corporate Finance

What Is Share Capital? How It Works and Types

Share capital is the money a company raises by issuing common or preferred stock. The amount of share capital or equity financing a company has can change over time with additional public offerings .

The term share capital can mean slightly different things depending on the context. Accountants have a much narrower definition and their definition rules on the balance sheets of public companies. It means the total amount raised by the company in sales of shares.

Key Takeaways

• A company's share capital is the money it raises from selling common or preferred stock.
• Authorized share capital is the maximum amount a company has been approved to raise in a public offering.
• A company may opt for a new offer of stock in order to increase the share capital on its balance sheet.

Investopedia / Crea Taylor

Share capital is reported by a company on its balance sheet in the shareholder's equity section. The information may be listed in separate line items depending on the source of the funds. These usually include a line for common stock, another for preferred stock, and a third for additional paid-in capital .

Common stock and preferred stock shares are reported at their par value at the time of sale. In modern business, the "par" or face value is a nominal figure. The actual amount received by a company in excess of par value is reported as "additional paid-in capital."

On a balance sheet, the proceeds of stock sales are listed at their nominal par value while the "additional paid-in capital" line reflects the real price paid over par for the shares.

The amount of share capital reported by a company includes only payments for purchases made directly from the company. The later sales and purchases of those shares and the rise or fall of their prices on the open market have no effect on the company's share capital.

A company may opt to have more than one public offering after its initial public offering (IPO). The proceeds of those later sales would increase the share capital on its balance sheet.

Types of Share Capital

The term "share capital" is often used to mean slightly different things depending on the context. When discussing the amount of money a company can legally raise through the sale of stock, there are several categories of share capital.

Accountants have a much narrower definition.

Authorized Share Capital

Before a company can raise equity capital, it must obtain permission to execute the sale of stock. The company must specify the total amount of equity it wants to raise and the base value of its shares, called the par value.

The maximum amount of share capital a company is allowed to raise is called its authorized capital.

This does not limit the number of shares a company may issue but it puts a ceiling on the total amount of money that can be raised by the sale of those shares. For example, if a company obtains authorization to raise $5 million and its stock has a par value of $1, it may issue and sell up to 5 million shares of stock.

Issued Share Capital

The total value of the shares a company elects to sell to investors is called its issued share capital. The par value of the issued share capital cannot exceed the value of the authorized share capital. Some companies—depending on where they are located—can issue investor called-up shares with the promise to be paid in full at a later date.

Share Capital on a Balance Sheet

The technical accounting definition of share capital is the par value of all equity securities, including common and preferred stock, sold to shareholders.

However, people who are not accountants often include the price of the stock in excess of par value in the calculation of share capital. As noted, the par value of stock is nominal, typically $1 or less. So, the difference between the par value and the real sale price, called paid-in capital , is usually considerable. Nevertheless, it is not technically included in share capital or capped by authorized capital limits.

Here's an example, and how it appears on a balance sheet: Assume company ABC issues 1,000 shares. Each share has a par value of $1 and sells for $25. The company's accountant will record $1,000 as share capital and the remaining $24,000 as additional paid-in capital.

Is Share Capital the Same As Equity?

The share capital is the part of a company's equity that it has raised from issuing common or preferred shares and is different from other types of equity accounts.

What Are the 2 Classes of Share Capital?

Share capital is considered to be either common or preferred stock.  Each category has specific rights attached to the shares.

What Are Other Names for Share Capital?

Share capital is also called shareholders' capital, equity capital, contributed capital, or paid-in capital. 

Share capital is the funding a company has raised through issuing common or preferred stock. Authorized share capital is the maximum amount of share capital a company is allowed to raise. Issued share capital is the total amount of shares a company opts to sell to investors. A company that wants to raise more equity and increase its share capital can do so by obtaining authorization (from its Board of Directors and shareholders) to issue and sell additional shares.

U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. " Topic 1 - Registrant's Financial Statements ."

• Terms of Service
• Editorial Policy
• Privacy Policy
• Your Privacy Choices

Assignment Definition

Investing Strategy , Jargon, Legal, Terminology, Title

Table of Contents

• What Is an Assignment?
• What is an Assignment in Real Estate?
• What Does it Mean to Assign a Contract in Real Estate?
• How Does a Contract Assignment Work?
• Pros and Cons of Assigning Contracts

REtipster does not provide legal advice. The information in this article can be impacted by many unique variables. Always consult with a qualified legal professional before taking action.

An assignment or assignment of contract is a way to profit from a real estate transaction without becoming the owner of the property.

The assignment method is a standard tool in a real estate wholesaler’s kit and lowers the barrier to entry for a real estate investor because it does not require the wholesaler to use much (or any) of their own money to profit from a deal.

Contract assignment is a common wholesaling strategy where the seller and the wholesaler (acting as a middleman in this case) sign an agreement giving the wholesaler the sole right to buy a property at a specified price, within a certain period of time.

The wholesaler then finds another buyer and assigns the contract to him or her. The wholesaler isn’t selling the property to the end buyer because the wholesaler never takes title to the property during the process. The wholesaler is simply selling the contract, which gives the end buyer the right to buy the property in accordance with the original purchase agreement.

In doing this, the wholesaler can earn an assignment fee for putting the deal together.

Some states require a real estate wholesaler to be a licensed real estate agent, and the assignment strategy can’t be used for HUD homes and REOs.

The process for assigning a contract follows some common steps. In summary, it looks like this:

• Find the right property.
• Get a purchase agreement signed.
• Find an end buyer.
• Assign the contract.
• Close the transaction and collect your assignment fee.

We describe each step in the process below.

1. Find the Right Property

This is where the heavy lifting happens—investors use many different marketing tactics to find leads and identify properties that work with their investing strategy. Typically, for wholesaling to work, a wholesaler needs a motivated seller who wants to unload the property as soon as possible. That sense of urgency works to the wholesaler’s advantage in negotiating a price that will attract buyers and cover their assignment fee.

RELATED: What is “Driving for Dollars” and How Does It Work?

2. Get a Purchase Agreement Signed

Once a motivated seller has agreed to sell their property at a discounted price, they will sign a purchase agreement with the wholesaler. The purchase agreement needs to contain specific, clear language that allows the wholesaler (for example, you) to assign their rights in the agreement to a third party.

Note that most standard purchase agreements do not include this language by default. If you plan to assign this contract, make sure this language is included. You can consult an attorney to cover the correct verbiage in a way that the seller understands it.

RELATED: Wholesaling Made Simple! A Comprehensive Guide to Assigning Contracts

This can’t be stressed enough: It’s extremely important for a wholesaler to communicate with their seller about their intent to assign the contract. Many sellers are not familiar with the assignment process, so if the role of the buyer is going to change along the way, the seller needs to be aware of this on or before they sign the original purchase agreement.

3. Find an End Buyer

This is the other half of a wholesaler’s job—marketing to find buyers. Once they find an end buyer, the wholesaler can assign the contract to the new party and work with the original seller and the end buyer to schedule a closing date.

4. Assign the Contract

Assigning the contract works through a simple assignment agreement. This agreement allows the end buyer to step into the wholesaler’s shoes as the buyer in the original contract.

In other words, this document “replaces” the wholesaler with the new end buyer.

Most assignment contracts include language for a nonrefundable deposit from the end buyer, which protects the wholesaler if the buyer backs out. While you can download assignment contract templates online, most experts recommend having an attorney review your contracts. The assignment wording has to be precise and comply with applicable local laws to protect you from issues down the road.

5. Close the Transaction and Collect the Assignment Fee

Finally, you will receive your assignment fee (or wholesale fee) when the end buyer closes the deal.

The assignment fee is often the difference between the original purchase price (the price that the seller agreed with the wholesaler) and the end buyer’s purchase price (the price the wholesaler agreed with the end buyer), but it can also be a percentage of it or even a flat amount.

According to UpCounsel, most contract assignments are done for about $5,000, although depending on the property and the market, it could be higher or lower.

IMPORTANT: the end buyer will see precisely how much the assignment fee is. This is because they must sign two documents that show the original price and the assignment fee: the closing statement and the assignment agreement, respectively, to close the transaction.

In many cases, if the assignment fee is a reasonable amount relative to the purchase price, most buyers won’t take any issue with the wholesaler taking their fee—after all, the wholesaler made the deal happen, and it’s compensation for their efforts. However, if the assignment fee is too big (such as the wholesaler taking $20,000 from an original purchase price of $10,000, while the end buyer buys it for $50,000), it may ruffle some feathers and lead to uncomfortable questions.

In these instances where the wholesaler has a substantially higher profit margin, a wholesaler can instead do a double closing . In a double closing, the wholesaler closes two separate deals (one with the seller and another with the buyer) on the same day, but the seller and buyer cannot see the numbers and overall profit margin the wholesaler makes between the two transactions. This makes a double closing a much safer way to conclude a transaction.

Assigning contracts is a way to lower the barrier to entry for many new real estate investors; because they don’t need to put up their own money to buy a property or assume any risk in financing a deal.

The wholesaler isn’t part of the title chain, which streamlines the process and avoids the hassle of closing two times. Compared to the double-close strategy, assignment contracts require less paperwork and are usually less costly (because there is only one closing occurring, rather than two separate transactions).

On the downside, the wholesaler has to sell the property as-is, because they don’t own it at any point and they cannot make repairs or renovations to make the property look more attractive to a potential buyer. Financing may be much more difficult for the end buyer because many mortgage lenders won’t work with assigned contracts. Purchase Agreements also have expiration dates, which means the wholesaler has a limited window of time to find an end buyer and get the deal done.

Being successful with assignment contracts usually comes down to excellent marketing, networking, and communication between all parties involved. It’s all about developing strategies to find the right properties and having a solid network of investors you can assign them to quickly.

It’s also critical to be aware of any applicable laws in the jurisdiction where the wholesaler is working and holding any licenses required for these kinds of real estate transactions.

Related terms

Double closing, wholesaling (real estate wholesaling), transactional funding.

Bonus:  Get a FREE copy of the INVESTOR HACKS ebook when you subscribe!

Free Subscriber Toolbox

Want to learn about the tools I’ve used to make over $40,000 per deal ? Get immediate access to videos, guides, downloads, and more resources for real estate investing domination. Sign up below for free and get access forever.

Join our growing community

subscribers

Welcome to REtipster.com

We noticed you are using an ad blocker.

We get it, too much advertising can be annoying.

Our few advertisers help us continue bringing lots of great content to you for FREE.

Please add REtipster.com to your Ad Blocker white list, to receive full access to website functionality.

Thank you for supporting. We promise you will find ample value from our website. 

Thanks for contacting us! We will get in touch with you shortly.

What Is an Assignment Clause?

An assignment clause spells out which contractual obligations, rights, and duties may be transferred from one of the contractual parties to another party. 3 min read updated on February 01, 2023

Updated October 29, 2020:

An assignment clause spells out which contractual obligations, rights, and duties may be transferred from one of the contractual parties to another party. The assignment may be in whole or in part, and the clause also details the conditions under which a party can assign these duties.

U.S. law dictates that most contractual rights can be freely assigned or delegated, unless an agreement states otherwise.

The assignment clause often overlaps with two other clauses:

• Parties in Interest
• Successors and Assigns

These control who assumes contractual rights and obligations.

Legal Background and Freely Assignable Rights

When one party in a contract “assigns” the agreement to someone else, this means the first party — the assignor — transfers its contractual rights and obligations to the second party — the assignee.

In some instances, one party will not want the other contractual party to freely assign its duties. Contracts will then include language that states this.

One exception to the general assignability rule is intellectual property licenses . Legally, a licensor must first give consent before an IP licensee can assign or delegate its rights or obligations, even in the case where the license agreement is silent.

Requirements for Assignment Consent

There are different ways to say the same thing in a contract. Some people prefer lengthier statements, and others like to keep things brief. The following are various ways to make the same points.

• One contractual party isn't allowed to assign its agreement to another person without prior written consent of the other contractual party, except as provided for in the contract. If an assignment is made without this consent, it won't be considered valid.
• One party may not assign any interest or right arising out of this contract — in whole or in part — without prior consent.
• To keep all doubts at bay, no consent is required for an assignment — including collateral, absolute, or other — for a contractual right to payment.

These are the takeaways from these stipulations:

• This type of requirement for an assignment clause can create obstacles for the non-assigning party in corporate reorganizations or future mergers.
• The party that's being asked to consent to an assignment clause requirement may want to negotiate its position. For instance, it may find negotiations helpful in a situation when the assignment involves a substantial sale.

A Party May Not Unreasonably Withhold or Delay Consent

It's not permissible to hold up consent to unreasonable delays.

Other ways to state this include:

• To avoid doubt, a party that suffers damage due to the unreasonable delay or withholding of consent by the other party can treat them as direct damages.
• To avoid doubt, damages that arise to one party from the unreasonable delay or withholding of consent by the other party aren't excluded from remedies.

Even when these provisions aren't in place, the law may still impose a reasonableness requirement. This requirement may not hold a lot of practical value, whether it's implied by the law or contractual. A reasonableness requirement can't guarantee that the non-assigning party will give consent when the assigning party wants it. By the time a case has worked its way through the court system to a decision, the deal that the assigning party was working on could have fallen through or otherwise be negated or moot.

However, this provision for unreasonable withholding should get the non-assigning party to carefully consider taking too much time due to the prospect of being held liable for damages. This can result in costly consequences.

On the other hand, having an unreasonable delay provision could create conflict with the provision concerning material breach of contract.

When you enter into a contract, it's important that you know what your rights and obligations are, as well as the other party's rights and obligations. If you don't want certain outcomes — assignment of duties, for instance — you must usually make it clear in the agreement. Getting help from a legal professional in the contract law field is a good idea when writing up a contract . That way, you increase the chances of covering everything you want covered, from the finer points to the bigger ones.

If you need help with contracts, you can post your legal need on UpCounsel's marketplace. UpCounsel accepts only the top 5 percent of lawyers to its site. Lawyers on UpCounsel come from law schools such as Harvard Law and Yale Law and average 14 years of legal experience, including work with or on behalf of companies like Google, Menlo Ventures, and Airbnb.

Hire the top business lawyers and save up to 60% on legal fees

Content Approved by UpCounsel

• Legal Assignment
• Assignment Law
• Consent to Assignment
• Assignment of Rights and Obligations Under a Contract
• Assignment of Rights Example
• Assignment Contract Law
• Assignability Of Contracts
• What Is the Definition of Assigns
• Assignment Legal Definition
• Delegation vs Assignment

Definition of 'assignment'

Video: pronunciation of assignment

assignment in British English

Assignment in american english, examples of 'assignment' in a sentence assignment, cobuild collocations assignment, trends of assignment.

View usage for: All Years Last 10 years Last 50 years Last 100 years Last 300 years

Browse alphabetically assignment

• assigned randomly
• assigned risk
• assimilability
• assimilable
• All ENGLISH words that begin with 'A'

Related terms of assignment

• seat assignment
• tough assignment
• writing assignment
• challenging assignment
• difficult assignment
• View more related words

Quick word challenge

Quiz Review

Score: 0 / 5

Wordle Helper

Scrabble Tools

Assignment of Lease

Jump to Section

What is an assignment of lease.

The assignment of lease is a title document that transfers all rights possessed by a lessee or tenant to a property to another party. The assignee takes the assignor’s place in the landlord-tenant relationship.

You can view an example of a lease assignment here .

How Lease Assignment Works

In cases where a tenant wants to or needs to get out of their lease before it expires, lease assignment provides a legal option to assign or transfer rights of the lease to someone else. For instance, if in a commercial lease a business leases a place for 12 months but the business moves or shuts down after 10 months, the person can transfer the lease to someone else through an assignment of the lease. In this case, they will not have to pay rent for the last two months as the new assigned tenant will be responsible for that.

However, before the original tenant can be released of any responsibilities associated with the lease, other requirements need to be satisfied. The landlord needs to consent to the lease transfer through a “License to Assign” document. It is crucial to complete this document before moving on to the assignment of lease as the landlord may refuse to approve the assignment.

Difference Between Assignment of Lease and Subletting

A transfer of the remaining interest in a lease, also known as assignment, is possible when implied rights to assign exist. Some leases do not allow assignment or sharing of possessions or property under a lease. An assignment ensures the complete transfer of the rights to the property from one tenant to another.

The assignor is no longer responsible for rent or utilities and other costs that they might have had under the lease. Here, the assignee becomes the tenant and takes over all responsibilities such as rent. However, unless the assignee is released of all liabilities by the landlord, they remain responsible if the new tenant defaults.

A sublease is a new lease agreement between the tenant (or the sublessor) and a third-party (or the sublessee) for a portion of the lease. The original lease agreement between the landlord and the sublessor (or original tenant) still remains in place. The original tenant still remains responsible for all duties set under the lease.

Here are some key differences between subletting and assigning a lease:

• Under a sublease, the original lease agreement still remains in place.
• The original tenant retains all responsibilities under a sublease agreement.
• A sublease can be for less than all of the property, such as for a room, general area, portion of the leased premises, etc.
• Subleasing can be for a portion of the lease term. For instance, a tenant can sublease the property for a month and then retain it after the third-party completes their month-long sublet.
• Since the sublease agreement is between the tenant and the third-party, rent is often negotiable, based on the term of the sublease and other circumstances.
• The third-party in a sublease agreement does not have a direct relationship with the landlord.
• The subtenant will need to seek consent of both the tenant and the landlord to make any repairs or changes to the property during their sublease.

Here is more on an assignment of lease here .

Parties Involved in Lease Assignment

There are three parties involved in a lease assignment – the landlord or owner of the property, the assignor and the assignee. The original lease agreement is between the landlord and the tenant, or the assignor. The lease agreement outlines the duties and responsibilities of both parties when it comes to renting the property. Now, when the tenant decides to assign the lease to a third-party, the third-party is known as the assignee. The assignee takes on the responsibilities laid under the original lease agreement between the assignor and the landlord. The landlord must consent to the assignment of the lease prior to the assignment.

For example, Jake is renting a commercial property for his business from Paul for two years beginning January 2013 up until January 2015. In January 2014, Jake suffers a financial crisis and has to close down his business to move to a different city. Jake doesn’t want to continue paying rent on the property as he will not be using it for a year left of the lease. Jake’s friend, John would soon be turning his digital business into a brick-and-mortar store. John has been looking for a space to kick start his venture. Jake can assign his space for the rest of the lease term to John through an assignment of lease. Jake will need to seek the approval of his landlord and then begin the assignment process. Here, Jake will be the assignor who transfers all his lease related duties and responsibilities to John, who will be the assignee.

You can read more on lease agreements here .

Image via Pexels by RODNAE

Assignment of Lease From Seller to Buyer

In case of a residential property, a landlord can assign his leases to the new buyer of the building. The landlord will assign the right to collect rent to the buyer. This will allow the buyer to collect any and all rent from existing tenants in that property. This assignment can also include the assignment of security deposits, if the parties agree to it. This type of assignment provides protection to the buyer so they can collect rent on the property.

The assignment of a lease from the seller to a buyer also requires that all tenants are made aware of the sale of the property. The buyer-seller should give proper notice to the tenants along with a notice of assignment of lease signed by both the buyer and the seller. Tenants should also be informed about the contact information of the new landlord and the payment methods to be used to pay rent to the new landlord.

You can read more on buyer-seller lease assignments here .

Get Help with an Assignment of Lease

Do you have any questions about a lease assignment and want to speak to an expert? Post a project today on ContractsCounsel and receive bids from real estate lawyers who specialize in lease assignment.

Meet some of our Assignment of Lease Lawyers

I focus my practice on startups and small to mid-size businesses, because they have unique needs that mid-size and large law firms aren't well-equipped to service. In addition to practicing law, I have started and run other businesses, and have an MBA in marketing from Indiana University. I combine my business experience with my legal expertise, to provide practical advice to my clients. I am licensed in Ohio and California, and I leverage the latest in technology to provide top quality legal services to a nationwide client-base. This enables me to serve my clients in a cost-effective manner that doesn't skimp on personal service.

Davis founded DLO in 2010 after nearly a decade of practicing in the corporate department of a larger law firm. Armed with this experience and knowledge of legal solutions used by large entities, Davis set out to bring the same level of service to smaller organizations and individuals. The mission was three-fold: provide top-notch legal work, charge fair prices for it, and never stop evolving to meet the changing needs of clients. Ten years and more than 1000 clients later, Davis is proud of the assistance DLO provides for companies large and small, and the expanding service they now offer for individuals and families.

I am a 1984 graduate of the Benjamin N Cardozo School of Law (Yeshiva University) and have been licensed in New Jersey for over 35 years. I have extensive experience in negotiating real estate, business contracts, and loan agreements. Depending on your needs I can work remotely or face-to-face. I offer prompt and courteous service and can tailor a contract and process to meet your needs.

Tim advises small businesses, entrepreneurs, and start-ups on a wide range of legal matters. He has experience with company formation and restructuring, capital and equity planning, tax planning and tax controversy, contract drafting, and employment law issues. His clients range from side gig sole proprietors to companies recognized by Inc. magazine.

For over thirty (33) years, Mr. Langley has developed a diverse general business and commercial litigation practice advising clients on day-to-day business and legal matters, as well as handling lawsuits and arbitrations across Texas and in various other states across the country. Mr. Langley has handled commercial matters including employment law, commercial collections, real estate matters, energy litigation, construction, general litigation, arbitrations, defamation actions, misappropriation of trade secrets, usury, consumer credit, commercial credit, lender liability, accounting malpractice, legal malpractice, and appellate practice in state and federal courts. (Online bio at www.curtmlangley.com).

Real Estate and Business lawyer.

Braden Perry is a corporate governance, regulatory and government investigations attorney with Kennyhertz Perry, LLC. Mr. Perry has the unique tripartite experience of a white-collar criminal defense and government compliance, investigations, and litigation attorney at a national law firm; a senior enforcement attorney at a federal regulatory agency; and the Chief Compliance Officer/Chief Regulatory Attorney of a global financial institution. Mr. Perry has extensive experience advising clients in federal inquiries and investigations, particularly in enforcement matters involving technological issues. He couples his technical knowledge and experience defending clients in front of federal agencies with a broad-based understanding of compliance from an institutional and regulatory perspective.

Find the best lawyer for your project

Contract to lease land from a church.

I’m planning on leasing land from a church. Putting a gym on the property. And leasing it back to the school.

Ok; first step is that you will need a leasing contract with the church. Ask them to prepare one for you so you would just need an attorney to review the agreement and that should cost less than if you had to be the party to pay a lawyer to draft it from scratch. You need to ensure that the purpose of the lease is clearly stated - that you plan to put a gym on the land so that there are no issues if the church leadership changes. Step 2 - you will need a lease agreement with the school that your leasing it do (hopefully one that is similar to the original one your received from the church). Again, please ensure that all the terms that you discuss and agree to are in the document; including length of time, price and how to resolve disputes if you have one. I hope this is helpful. If you would like me to assist you further, you can contact me on Contracts Counsel and we can discuss a fee for my services. Regards, Donya Ramsay (Gordon)

How It Works

Post Your Project

Get Free Bids to Compare

Hire Your Lawyer

Real Estate lawyers by top cities

• Austin Real Estate Lawyers
• Boston Real Estate Lawyers
• Chicago Real Estate Lawyers
• Dallas Real Estate Lawyers
• Denver Real Estate Lawyers
• Houston Real Estate Lawyers
• Los Angeles Real Estate Lawyers
• New York Real Estate Lawyers
• Phoenix Real Estate Lawyers
• San Diego Real Estate Lawyers
• Tampa Real Estate Lawyers

Assignment of Lease lawyers by city

• Austin Assignment of Lease Lawyers
• Boston Assignment of Lease Lawyers
• Chicago Assignment of Lease Lawyers
• Dallas Assignment of Lease Lawyers
• Denver Assignment of Lease Lawyers
• Houston Assignment of Lease Lawyers
• Los Angeles Assignment of Lease Lawyers
• New York Assignment of Lease Lawyers
• Phoenix Assignment of Lease Lawyers
• San Diego Assignment of Lease Lawyers
• Tampa Assignment of Lease Lawyers

related contracts

• Addendum to Lease
• ALTA Statement
• Apartment Lease
• Apartment Rental Agreement
• Boundary Line Agreement
• Brokerage Agreement
• Building Contract
• Building Lease
• Business Office Lease Agreement
• Buyer Agency Agreement

other helpful articles

• How much does it cost to draft a contract?
• Do Contract Lawyers Use Templates?
• How do Contract Lawyers charge?
• Business Contract Lawyers: How Can They Help?
• What to look for when hiring a lawyer

Quick, user friendly and one of the better ways I've come across to get ahold of lawyers willing to take new clients.

Contracts Counsel was incredibly helpful and easy to use. I submitted a project for a lawyer's help within a day I had received over 6 proposals from qualified lawyers. I submitted a bid that works best for my business and we went forward with the project.

I never knew how difficult it was to obtain representation or a lawyer, and ContractsCounsel was EXACTLY the type of service I was hoping for when I was in a pinch. Working with their service was efficient, effective and made me feel in control. Thank you so much and should I ever need attorney services down the road, I'll certainly be a repeat customer.

I got 5 bids within 24h of posting my project. I choose the person who provided the most detailed and relevant intro letter, highlighting their experience relevant to my project. I am very satisfied with the outcome and quality of the two agreements that were produced, they actually far exceed my expectations.

Want to speak to someone?

Get in touch below and we will schedule a time to connect!

Find lawyers and attorneys by city

• More from M-W
• To save this word, you'll need to log in. Log In

Definition of assign

 (Entry 1 of 2)

transitive verb

Definition of assign  (Entry 2 of 2)

• intrust

ascribe , attribute , assign , impute , credit mean to lay something to the account of a person or thing.

ascribe suggests an inferring or conjecturing of cause, quality, authorship.

attribute suggests less tentativeness than ascribe , less definiteness than assign .

assign implies ascribing with certainty or after deliberation.

impute suggests ascribing something that brings discredit by way of accusation or blame.

credit implies ascribing a thing or especially an action to a person or other thing as its agent, source, or explanation.

Examples of assign in a Sentence

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'assign.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Verb and Noun

Middle English, from Anglo-French assigner , from Latin assignare , from ad- + signare to mark, from signum mark, sign

13th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing assign

• pre - assign

Dictionary Entries Near assign

Cite this entry.

“Assign.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary , Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/assign. Accessed 21 Apr. 2024.

Kids Definition

Kids definition of assign, legal definition, legal definition of assign.

Legal Definition of assign  (Entry 2 of 2)

More from Merriam-Webster on assign

Nglish: Translation of assign for Spanish Speakers

Britannica English: Translation of assign for Arabic Speakers

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

Can you solve 4 words at once?

Word of the day, noblesse oblige.

See Definitions and Examples »

Get Word of the Day daily email!

Popular in Grammar & Usage

Your vs. you're: how to use them correctly, every letter is silent, sometimes: a-z list of examples, more commonly mispronounced words, how to use em dashes (—), en dashes (–) , and hyphens (-), absent letters that are heard anyway, popular in wordplay, the words of the week - apr. 19, 10 words from taylor swift songs (merriam's version), a great big list of bread words, 10 scrabble words without any vowels, 12 more bird names that sound like insults (and sometimes are), games & quizzes.

• Dictionaries home
• American English
• Collocations
• German-English
• Grammar home
• Practical English Usage
• Learn & Practise Grammar (Beta)
• Word Lists home
• My Word Lists
• Recent additions
• Resources home
• Text Checker

Definition of assignment noun from the Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary

• Students are required to complete all homework assignments.
• You will need to complete three written assignments per semester.
• a business/special assignment
• I had set myself a tough assignment.
• on an assignment She is in Greece on an assignment for one of the Sunday newspapers.
• on assignment one of our reporters on assignment in China
• The students handed in their assignments.
• The teacher gave us an assignment on pollution.
• Why did you take on this assignment if you're so busy?
• He refused to accept the assignment.
• assignment on

Join our community to access the latest language learning and assessment tips from Oxford University Press!

• his assignment to other duties in the same company
• on assignment

Nearby words

• Daily Crossword
• Word Puzzle
• Word Finder
• Word of the Day
• Synonym of the Day
• Word of the Year
• Language stories
• All featured
• Gender and sexuality
• All pop culture
• Grammar Coach ™
• Writing hub
• Grammar essentials
• Commonly confused
• All writing tips
• Pop culture
• Writing tips

Did you mean assignment ?

• arraignment

• Cambridge Dictionary +Plus

Meaning of assignment in English

Your browser doesn't support HTML5 audio

• It was a jammy assignment - more of a holiday really.
• He took this award-winning photograph while on assignment in the Middle East .
• His two-year assignment to the Mexico office starts in September .
• She first visited Norway on assignment for the winter Olympics ten years ago.
• He fell in love with the area after being there on assignment for National Geographic in the 1950s.
• act as something
• all work and no play (makes Jack a dull boy) idiom
• be at work idiom
• be in work idiom
• housekeeping
• in the line of duty idiom
• undertaking

You can also find related words, phrases, and synonyms in the topics:

assignment | American Dictionary

Assignment | business english, examples of assignment, collocations with assignment.

These are words often used in combination with assignment .

Click on a collocation to see more examples of it.

Translations of assignment

Get a quick, free translation!

Word of the Day

the act of an animal running around, sometimes in circles, in a very energetic way

Binding, nailing, and gluing: talking about fastening things together

Learn more with +Plus

• Recent and Recommended {{#preferredDictionaries}} {{name}} {{/preferredDictionaries}}
• Definitions Clear explanations of natural written and spoken English English Learner’s Dictionary Essential British English Essential American English
• Grammar and thesaurus Usage explanations of natural written and spoken English Grammar Thesaurus
• Pronunciation British and American pronunciations with audio English Pronunciation
• English–Chinese (Simplified) Chinese (Simplified)–English
• English–Chinese (Traditional) Chinese (Traditional)–English
• English–Dutch Dutch–English
• English–French French–English
• English–German German–English
• English–Indonesian Indonesian–English
• English–Italian Italian–English
• English–Japanese Japanese–English
• English–Norwegian Norwegian–English
• English–Polish Polish–English
• English–Portuguese Portuguese–English
• English–Spanish Spanish–English
• English–Swedish Swedish–English
• Dictionary +Plus Word Lists
• on assignment
• American    Noun
• Collocations
• Translations
• All translations

Add assignment to one of your lists below, or create a new one.

{{message}}

Something went wrong.

There was a problem sending your report.