Your Ultimate Guide to Getting Credentials for the Berkshire Hathaway Annual Meeting
Have you ever dreamt of being in the same room as the "Oracle of Omaha," Warren Buffett? Imagine sitting amongst thousands of fellow capitalists, listening to his wisdom, and feeling the energy of the world's most anticipated corporate event. The Berkshire Hathaway Annual Meeting in Omaha, Nebraska, is not just a meeting; it's a pilgrimage for investors and a celebration of value investing. But to get in, you need a special ticket, a credential. Don't worry, we're here to guide you through the process, step-by-step. Let's make that dream a reality!
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| How To Get Credentials For Berkshire Hathaway Annual Meeting |
Step 1: Become a Shareholder – The Golden Ticket
Before you can even think about credentials, you must understand the fundamental requirement: you must be a shareholder. This is your golden ticket. Without owning at least one share of Berkshire Hathaway stock, you cannot request a credential directly from the company.
Sub-heading: Understanding the Shares
Berkshire Hathaway has two classes of stock: Class A (BRK.A) and Class B (BRK.B).
Class A shares (BRK.A): These are the original, incredibly expensive shares, often trading for hundreds of thousands of dollars each. Owning even one of these makes you a shareholder with a substantial stake.
Class B shares (BRK.B): These are the more affordable, "baby" shares, which were created to make ownership accessible to a broader audience. You can purchase a single BRK.B share for a few hundred dollars.
The good news is that owning even a single BRK.B share is enough to qualify you for a meeting credential! So, if you're not a shareholder yet, your first step is to invest in at least one share through a brokerage account.
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Step 2: Get the Credential Request Form
Once you are a shareholder, the company makes it relatively easy to get your credentials. You can request up to four credentials per shareholder, which is a fantastic perk for bringing family or friends.
Sub-heading: Option A: The Mail-in Form
This is the traditional and most common method.
Receive the Annual Report: As a shareholder of record, you will receive the annual report and proxy statement in the mail. This package is sent out in early to mid-March, approximately six to eight weeks before the meeting.
Look for the Perforated Card: Inside the annual report or proxy statement, you will find a perforated credential request form. This is your official application.
Fill it Out Carefully: The form is straightforward. You will need to provide your name, address, and the number of credentials you are requesting (up to four). Make sure to print clearly!
Mail the Form: Place the completed form in an envelope and mail it to the address provided on the form. The address is typically:
Attn: Meeting Credentials
3555 Farnam St.
Omaha, NE 68131
Sub-heading: Option B: The Online Credential Request Form
In some cases, the company also makes the credential request form available online on their investor relations website, often in the "Annual Materials" section. This can be a great option if you prefer not to wait for the physical mail. Keep an eye on the official Berkshire Hathaway website for these documents, which are usually released around the same time as the proxy statement.
Pro-tip: Mail your form as early as possible. While there is a deadline, getting it in early ensures your credentials are sent out to you well in advance, reducing any last-minute stress!
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Step 3: Receive and Protect Your Credentials
After mailing in your request, the waiting game begins.
Wait for the Mail: Your credentials will be mailed to the address you provided on the form. They typically arrive a few weeks after you send in your request.
Recognize the Credential: The credential is not a typical ticket. It's a small, personalized badge, usually with a lanyard, that serves as your admission ticket to all shareholder-only events during the weekend. The design changes annually, making it a unique collectible.
Keep it Safe! This is perhaps the most important step. Your credential is your passport for the weekend. It is mandatory for admission to the meeting, the exhibit hall, and other shareholder-only events. Do not lose it. Keep it in a secure place and remember to bring it with you everywhere you go in Omaha that weekend.
Step 4: The "Will-Call" Option – Your Backup Plan
What if you don't receive your credentials by mail, or you forget them? Don't panic! Berkshire Hathaway has a well-organized system for this.
Sub-heading: Using the Will-Call Area
Locate the Will-Call: The "Will Call/Credential Pick-up" area is located in the lobby of the CHI Health Center Omaha, the main meeting venue.
Bring Proof of Ownership: To pick up your credentials at Will-Call, you must bring proof of ownership of your Berkshire Hathaway shares. This can be a brokerage account statement, a screenshot of your online brokerage account, or even a screenshot of your broker's app showing your holding. A simple share certificate or a letter from your broker is also acceptable.
Bring Photo Identification: You will also need a valid, government-issued photo ID, such as a passport or driver's license, to verify your identity.
Be Prepared for a Line: The Will-Call line can be long, especially on the Friday before the meeting. Arriving with ample time is highly recommended. The Will-Call typically opens on Friday and Saturday of the meeting weekend.
Note: The credential identifies you as a shareholder and enables you to enjoy special shareholder-only discounts and access to exclusive events throughout the weekend. It's more than just a ticket to the main meeting!
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Step 5: For Non-Shareholders – Is It Possible?
So, you don't own any shares but still want to go? While the official channel is for shareholders, there is a secondary market.
Sub-heading: The Secondary Market
Online Marketplaces: You might be able to find and purchase a credential on platforms like eBay. Shareholders who requested more credentials than they need sometimes sell their extras.
Pricing: The prices on the secondary market can vary but typically range from $10 to $25 per credential.
Important Disclaimer: This is not an official or guaranteed method. While it has worked for many in the past, it's important to be cautious and aware of the risks involved in purchasing from unofficial sources.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How to get credentials if you own shares through a company or trust? If your shares are held in a trust, corporation, or other legal entity, you may need to provide additional documentation, such as a letter from your broker or a legal document showing your authority to act on behalf of the entity. Contact your broker or Berkshire Hathaway's investor relations for specific instructions.
How to find the credential request form online? The most reliable place to find the form online is the official Berkshire Hathaway Inc. investor relations website, usually under a section titled "Shareholder Meeting Information" or "Annual Materials."
How to get credentials if you are an international shareholder? The process is the same as for domestic shareholders. You'll need to mail the credential request form. However, be sure to account for extra mailing time. It is highly recommended to send your form as early as possible to ensure you receive the credentials before your travel date. If they don't arrive in time, the Will-Call option is your reliable backup.
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How to know if my credential request has been processed? There is no official tracking system for credential requests. The best way to know is to simply wait for the credentials to arrive in the mail. If you don't receive them within a few weeks of mailing the form, prepare to use the Will-Call option in Omaha.
How to get a good seat at the annual meeting? Getting a good seat requires an early start. The doors of the CHI Health Center open very early, and people line up from the pre-dawn hours. Many attendees even start lining up at 2 AM or earlier. If you want a prime seat near the front, be prepared for a long wait in line!
How to avoid long lines for credentials? The best way to avoid long lines is to request your credentials by mail and receive them in advance. If you have to use Will-Call, the lines are typically longest on Friday afternoon and Saturday morning. Arriving earlier on Friday can help you beat the rush.
How to prove ownership of shares at Will-Call? A brokerage statement showing your name and the number of shares held, a screenshot of your online brokerage account, or a letter from your broker is sufficient. The key is to have a document that clearly links you to the shares.
How to use the credentials for discounts and events? Simply show your meeting credential badge at participating venues and businesses in Omaha during the meeting weekend. The shareholder guide, which you receive with your credential or can find online, will have a list of all participating stores and events, including the famous Borsheims shopping event.
How to get extra credentials for friends or family who are not shareholders? As a shareholder, you can request up to four credentials. These credentials are not tied to a specific name, so you can give your extra credentials to non-shareholder guests. They will need to wear the badge to access the events.
How to watch the meeting if you can't attend in person? For those who cannot make the trip to Omaha, CNBC provides a live broadcast and webcast of the annual meeting's Q&A session. You can watch it for free on CNBC's website or their YouTube channel.
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