Massachusetts § 19 - Subscriptions in default; sale of rights to subscribe

Full text of Massachusetts Massachusetts General Laws § 19 — Subscriptions in default; sale of rights to subscribe, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 19. Subscriptions in default; sale of rights to subscribe

Section 19. If, under the articles of organization, capital stock issued for cash is to be paid for in full before it is issued, and the subscriber refuses or neglects to pay the amount demanded for thirty days after the time limited for payment in the demand made under the preceding section, his rights of subscription may be sold by public auction by the treasurer of the corporation who, out of the proceeds of such sale, shall pay to the corporation the amount then due from such subscriber with interest and incidental charges, first giving notice by mail to such subscriber, not less than ten days prior to such sale, of the time and place appointed therefor and of the amount due and payable by him. Upon the sale of such rights as aforesaid, the directors shall give to the purchaser a certificate thereof. If the rights of such subscriber do not sell for an amount sufficient to pay the amount due from him with interest and charges of sale, he shall be liable to the corporation in an action at law for the deficiency; if they sell for more, he shall be entitled to the surplus. At the expiration of thirty days after the time limited for payment as aforesaid, the directors may waive their right to offer such rights for sale, and may elect to proceed at law against such delinquent subscriber to recover all amounts due and payable by him with interest. If said rights are not sold at said auction, or if a judgment rendered in an action against a subscriber remains unsatisfied for thirty days, all amounts previously paid by him shall be forfeited to the corporation.

Source: official Massachusetts text · Last verified 2026-08-27

Frequently Asked Questions About Massachusetts § 19

What does Massachusetts General Laws § 19 cover?

Section 19 ("Subscriptions in default; sale of rights to subscribe") is part of the Massachusetts General Laws, the codified statutory law of Massachusetts. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.

How do I cite Massachusetts § 19?

A common citation format is "Massachusetts General Laws § 19" (Massachusetts). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.

Is this the official text of Massachusetts law?

No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Massachusetts official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Massachusetts attorney.

How does Massachusetts § 19 apply to my situation?

Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Massachusetts can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.

Sources & Verification

Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Massachusetts.