How should an FFL proceed if, after the completion of Section E of ATF form 4473 (signed and dated), the transferee decides to purchase a different firearm than originally recorded on the Form 4473?

A different firearm purchased by the same transferee/buyer may not be added to the Form 4473 after the transferor/seller has signed and dated the form. A transferee/buyer who wishes to acquire a different firearm after the transferor/seller has signed and dated the form must complete a new ATF Form 4473 and undergo a new National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) check.

A federal firearms licensee (FFL) may amend Section A of the Form 4473 if the transferee/buyer decides to buy a different firearm than was initially recorded in Section A, provided the transferor/seller has not signed and dated the form.

[27 CFR 478.102(c) and 478.21]

Last Reviewed July 8, 2021