Skip to main content

Transferring your brokerage account to Public (non-ACAT)

Updated this week

If your current brokerage does not support ACATS, you can still move your investments to Public through a Non-ACAT transfer. This process takes a bit longer and involves manual coordination between firms, but our team is here to help ensure everything goes smoothly.


How to Start a Non-ACAT Transfer

Non-ACAT transfers are not automated, so you’ll need to work directly with our Member Support Team to initiate the process. We’ll provide the required forms and help coordinate with your current brokerage. You can contact us anytime through in-app chat or by emailing support@public.com.


Transfer Timelines

Non-ACAT transfers typically take 2–4 weeks to complete, assuming everything goes smoothly.

Transfers can take longer if:

  • The delivering firm rejects the request, or

  • There are errors or missing details that need to be corrected.

We recommend monitoring both accounts throughout the process and responding promptly to any requests from your current brokerage.


What Can Be Transferred

Public can accept:

  • Whole shares of U.S.-listed stocks and ETFs

  • Cash balances in USD

  • Mutual funds*

Public cannot receive:

  • Fractional shares

  • Cryptocurrency

  • Foreign securities

  • Options positions that expire within 7 business days of the transfer request

Mutual Funds*: Mutual funds can be accepted on a sell-only basis meaning once arrived we can only support sales of this position type. To initiate a sell of a mutual fund transferred in, please contact our Member Support Team and request a sell order for your mutual fund positions after the transfer is completed.

If unsupported or unsellable assets remain, your current brokerage may liquidate them and send the cash proceeds to your Public account once the transfer completes.


Margin and Options Positions

  • Margin balances may be transferred if you have an approved margin account at Public. If not, please ensure any margin balances are fully resolved before submitting your transfer.

  • Options positions can typically be transferred only if they do not expire within 7 business days of your request. We recommend confirming expiration dates before submitting your transfer to avoid rejection or delays.


Need Help?

Our Member Support Team is here to help guide you through the Non-ACAT process.

You can reach us anytime through in-app chat or by emailing support@public.com.


*Public.com does not provide tax advice. Please consult a qualified tax professional for guidance regarding your individual circumstances.

Did this answer your question?