Should an FFL enter “zero” for item 6 on Form 4473 when the firearm transfer is denied by a background check or the transfer doesn’t otherwise take place?

No. Item 6 on Form 4473 states: “Total Number of Firearms to be Transferred (Please spell total number e.g., one, two, etc. Do not use numerals.)”

Item 6 should reflect the total number of firearms recorded in items 1-5 and, as necessary, on the Firearms Transaction Record Continuation Sheet (ATF Form 5300.9A), regardless of whether the firearms were actually transferred.

[27 CFR 478.21]

Last Reviewed July 8, 2021