Domain Name Escrow: A Step-by-Step Guide for 2026

Domain transfers take 5–7 days and involve two registrars, an authorization code, and a buyer who may not get full control for a week. Without escrow, one side carries all the risk for that entire period.

Step 1 — Verify the asset#

• Check WHOIS for current registrant.
• Confirm the domain is unlocked and not within 60 days of a previous transfer.
• Verify no UDRP / trademark issues.
• Check expiration date and renewal cost.

Step 2 — Fund escrow#

Buyer deposits the agreed price plus the 2% Escrows Click fee. Funds are locked. Seller sees them but cannot withdraw.

Step 3 — Transfer#

• Seller unlocks the domain, provides the EPP / auth code.
• Buyer initiates transfer at their registrar.
• Both parties approve the transfer email.
• WHOIS updates to the buyer within 5–7 days.

Step 4 — Release#

Once buyer confirms WHOIS shows them as registrant, escrow releases funds to seller. Disputes can be opened any time before release. See /what-we-escrow for our full asset list.

Escrows Click holds funds in a neutral wallet, verifies delivery, and only releases payment when both parties are satisfied. Start a deal in two minutes at escrows.click.