Unclaimed Stocks & Dividends

Rs 50,000 crore available for claim

The Companies Act of 2013 mandates unclaimed or unpaid dividends, matured deposits, matured debentures, and any other amount payable to the shareholders of a company remaining unclaimed or unpaid for a period of seven years must be transferred to the Investor Education and Protection Fund Authority (IEPFA) managed by the Ministry of Corporate Affairs.

Investor Education and Protection Fund (IEPF)

Where a dividend has not been paid or claimed within 30 days of declaration, the company must transfer the funds within 7 days to an Unpaid Dividend Account. Within ninety days of transfer, public notice containing shareholder name, last known address and amount is required. Funds which remain unpaid or unclaimed for 7 years are then remitted to the IEPFA.

As of 2021, the fund contained approximately INR 77,000 crore ($10.4 billion USD). Transferred monies are utilized to advance the education and protection of investors, until reclaimed by shareholders or heirs.

► IEPF Unclaimed Stock Dividend Database

Once you have located your missing stock or unclaimed dividends, you’ll need to prove ownership or entitlement using share certificates, dividend warrants, and other relevant documents including one or more of the following:

  • Aadhaar card of holder or passport/OCI/PIO card for NRIs.
  • Client master list of claimant demat account
  • Proof of ownership or entitlement, such as a share certificate, dividend warrant or statement

If the original shareholder is deceased, a notarised copy of death certificate and succession documentation and indemnity bond may be required.

For details see: IEPF Claims Form

Search Company Unclaimed Dividend Accounts

Unclaimed Stock & Dividends Search Assistance

Contact Stock Registrars & Transfer Agents

It is often useful to check with major company Share Registrars and Transfer Agents when searching for a lost shareholding. RTA’s maintain company shareholder lists, and handle transfers and payments.