What is your ACATS Number?

American Estate & Trust (AET) is a regulated trust company specializing in alternative asset custody. Unlike traditional brokerage firms, AET does not participate in the Automated Customer Account Transfer Service (ACATS), which automates asset transfers between financial institutions. Because AET does not use ACATS, it does not have an ACATS number.

Instead, AET processes transfers manually, requiring specific documentation and approval to move assets into or out of an AET account. Below are the steps for each type of transfer.

How to Transfer an Asset into AET

Clients transferring an asset into AET must follow these steps:

1. Open a Self-Directed IRA with AET

Before transferring assets, you must first establish an SDIRA with AET. This ensures the assets are correctly received and recorded.

2. Submit Asset for Approval

Before initiating a transfer, all assets besides cash must be submitted for approval. Supporting documents must be sent to AET for review to confirm they meet compliance and custodial requirements.

3. Complete the Transfer Request Form

Once the asset is approved, you must complete AET’s Transfer Request form. This includes details of your current custodian and the asset(s) you are transferring.

4. Initiate the Transfer with Your Current Custodian

AET does not pull assets from another custodian; you must instruct your current custodian to send the asset to AET. Some custodians may require additional forms or a Medallion Signature Guarantee.

5. AET Receives and Processes the Transfer

Once the asset or cash is received, AET will process the transfer and update your account accordingly. If any additional documentation is needed, AET will contact you.

How to Transfer an Asset Out of AET

If you want to move assets from AET to another custodian, follow these steps:

1. Open an Account with Your New Custodian

Before transferring assets out of AET, you must have an active account with the receiving custodian.

2. Complete the Transfer Out Request Form

AET requires a Transfer Out Request form to initiate the transfer. You will need to specify whether you are transferring cash or alternative assets.

3. Submit Required Documentation

If transferring alternative assets, additional documentation may be required to ensure compliance with IRS regulations. AET will guide you on any necessary paperwork.

4. AET Processes and Sends the Transfer

Once the request is approved, AET will initiate the transfer by sending the cash or assets to the receiving custodian according to their requirements. Processing times will vary depending on the asset type and custodian policies.

Important Considerations

• Processing Time – Manual transfers, particularly for alternative assets, can take six weeks or more due to documentation review and asset re-registration.
• Fees – Some custodians may charge fees for processing transfers. AET does not control external custodian fees.
• Compliance Requirements – Transfers must comply with IRS regulations. Alternative assets require additional review and documentation before they can be moved.

By following these steps, you can successfully transfer assets to or from AET without the use of the ACATS system. If you have any questions, please contact AET’s support team for assistance.