The USMS issues equitable sharing payments after the sharing request appears in the CATS Equitable Sharing Payments Authorization Report. A request will not appear in the report unless the information permitting payment has been entered in CATS by the investigative agency, the United States Attorney's Office, and the USMS. Consequently, each component's timely processing ensures expeditious sharing payments.

The USMS transfers all equitable sharing payments to state and local law enforcement agencies electronically. The payment is deposited directly into a bank account designated by the recipient agency. The recipient agency also receives a confirmation of the deposit by e-mail. Known as E-SHARE, this program provides a fast, efficient, and secure method to make equitable sharing payments. Participation in the program is mandatory. In order to receive equitable sharing payments electronically, state and local agencies must submit a completed Form USM-391 to the E-SHARE Help desk. The form, and additional information about the E-SHARE program, may be obtained online at http://www.usmarshals.gov/assets/eshare/index.html or by e-mail to E.Share.Help@usdoj.gov (link sends e-mail). See Chapter 6 of the Asset Forfeiture Policy Manual.

[updated May 2010]