™A writer of one standard equity call may be assigned an obligation to deliver 100 shares at the strike. Assignment timing and nonstandard deliverables must be checked.
Options
Assignment
The requirement for an option seller to fulfill the contract after the holder exercises.
Plain-English context
Put the definition to work.
The short holder does not choose assignment timing. Exercise style, settlement and broker procedures determine the obligation.
Further reading and verification. Examples are hypothetical, not current quotes or recommendations. Product terms, tax treatment and market rules can change. OCC / Options Industry Council — options basics