How to Transfer a Domain Name Securely After Sale (Escrow Checklist)

The actual mechanics of moving a domain between owners are simple — until something goes wrong. This checklist covers what to do at each step and what your escrow agent will check before releasing funds.

Before the buyer funds escrow#

• Confirm the domain is not under a registrar lock or ICANN 60-day transfer lock.
• Confirm WHOIS shows the seller as the registrant (privacy-redacted is fine if seller can prove it).
• Agree the transfer method: same-registrar push (fastest, instant) or inter-registrar transfer (5–7 days).

Same-registrar push (preferred)#

• Buyer creates an account at the same registrar (GoDaddy, Namecheap, Dynadot, etc.).
• Seller initiates an account push to the buyer's username/email.
• Buyer accepts the push; ownership transfers instantly.
• Buyer updates WHOIS contact info and enables registrar + transfer lock.

Inter-registrar transfer#

• Seller unlocks the domain and provides the EPP/authorization code.
• Buyer initiates a transfer at the receiving registrar using the auth code.
• Both parties approve the transfer email; transfer completes in 5–7 days.
• Escrow funds stay locked until WHOIS confirms the buyer as registrant.

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.