To transfer domain ownership to someone else without changing registrars, you use an internal account "Push." This instantly moves the domain from your account to the buyer's account at the same registrar. Unlike a standard transfer, a push does not require an authorization code, has no transfer fees, and bypasses the 60-day ICANN lock.
Account Push vs Registrar Transfer
These are two completely different processes. Confusing them causes unnecessary delays and fees.
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| Moves domain to another user at the same registrar | Recipient's username only |
| Moves domain to a different registrar entirely | EPP/TAC code, 60-day wait, transfer fee |
Account Push: Changes ownership within the same platform. Instant. Free. No authorization codes. No ICANN lock restrictions.
Registrar Transfer: Moves the domain to a completely different registrar (e.g., from GoDaddy to NameSilo). Requires EPP codes, takes 5-7 days, costs money, and triggers a new 60-day lock.
If both parties use NameSilo, always push. Never transfer.
Why It Matters: Skip the 60-Day Lock
ICANN mandates a 60-day lock after any registrar transfer. During this period, the domain cannot be transferred again.
Account pushes bypass this entirely. You can:
- Sell a domain you just acquired
- Complete transactions same-day
- Avoid transfer fees on both ends
- Skip the EPP code complexity
For domain investors flipping frequently, pushes are essential. For anyone selling a business, pushes eliminate waiting periods.
Decision Framework: Push or Transfer?
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Buyer has account at same registrar | |
Buyer wants to use different registrar | |
Domain is within 60-day lock | |
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Buyer refuses to create account | |
Best practice for sales: Ask the buyer to create a free account at your registrar. Push is faster and cheaper.
Implementation Steps
Step 1: Go to Domain Manager Log into your NameSilo account and navigate to the Domain Manager page. Step 2: Unlock the Domain Ensure the domain is unlocked—the padlock icon should be gray, not yellow. Click the padlock to toggle if needed.
Step 3: Select the Domain Check the box next to the domain(s) you want to push.
Step 4: Click Push Domains Select the "Push Domains" icon from the "ACTIONS for Selected Domains" section at the top of the domain list.
Step 5: Enter Recipient's Username Input the buyer's NameSilo username. They must have an active NameSilo account.
Step 6: Confirm Review and confirm. The domain instantly appears in the recipient's account.
Common Mistakes
Forgetting to update WHOIS: After a push, WHOIS may still show the original owner. The new owner must update registrant information.
Pushing before payment: Never push before receiving payment. Once pushed, you lose control. Use escrow for sales.
Recipient has no account: The buyer must create a NameSilo account first. Pushes only work between existing accounts.
Confusing push with transfer: Initiating a registrar transfer when a push works wastes time and money.
What This Means for You
NameSilo's Push Domain feature is free, instant, and available in Domain Manager. No fees. No authorization codes. No waiting. Verify ownership details post-push via WHOIS lookup to confirm updated contact information. The process takes under a minute. Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a domain ownership transfer take?
A push is instant. Registrar transfers take 5-7 days.
Does it cost money to transfer domain ownership?
Pushes are free. Registrar transfers cost a year's registration fee.
Do I need an EPP code to change owners?
Not for a push. Only for registrar transfers.
Moving a domain between accounts at the same registrar.
Does changing owners trigger a 60-day lock?
No. Pushes bypass the ICANN lock entirely.
How do I change the WHOIS registrant data?
Update contact information in Domain Manager after receiving the domain.
Can I push an expired domain?
No. The domain must be active and unlocked.
Is an account push safe for selling domains?
Yes, with escrow. Never push before receiving payment.