Investors often forget to claim dividends or shares from companies. After 7 years of being unclaimed, these shares and dividends are transferred to the Investor Education and Protection Fund (IEPF). After Recent 2025 updates, the process has become more streamlined, allowing investors to claim shares directly.
This guide explains the latest procedure, step-by-step, to help you reclaim your investments safely.
Many investors are unaware that unclaimed shares and dividends are transferred to IEPF after seven years. The IEPF Authority, under the Companies Act, 2013, manages these unclaimed assets.
With the latest 2025 rules, investors can now:
- Claim shares only without waiting for dividend claims
- Submit claims online and offline with clear documentation
- Track the status of their claim using a unique SRN (Service Request Number)
What is IEPF?
The Investor Education and Protection Fund (IEPF) is a government fund designed to:
- Protect the investors’ interests
- Hold unclaimed dividends and shares safely
- Facilitate claims by shareholders or legal heirs
Companies are mandated to transfer unclaimed shares and dividends to IEPF after 7 years.
Latest Updates for Claiming Shares
As per Recent October 2025 Amendments, the following key changes are introduced:
- Shares-Only Claims Allowed: Previously, claims often required specifying both dividends and shares. Now, investors can claim shares alone.
- Mandatory Demat Details: Claims must include 16-digit Demat ID + Client ID to prevent delays.
- E-Submission & SRN: Online submission of Form IEPF-5 generates a unique SRN for tracking.
- Physical Documents: Signed form, indemnity bond, and proof documents must be sent to the company’s Nodal Officer/RTA.
- Company Verification: Companies must submit scanned copies and e-verification to IEPF within 30 days.
- Share Transfer: Approved shares are credited to the demat account or issued as new certificates for physical shares.
Who Can Claim Shares?
- Original Shareholders: Individuals or entities holding the shares.
- Legal Heirs: In case of death, heirs can claim shares with valid succession documents.
Documents Required for Claiming Shares
To claim shares from IEPF, prepare:
- Form IEPF-5 – filled and signed
- PAN card – identity proof
- Aadhaar / Passport / OCI card
- Share certificates (if physical) or demat holding proof
- Cancelled cheque or bank passbook
- Indemnity Bond (on stamp paper if required)
- Death Certificate / Succession Documents – for legal heirs
Step-by-Step Process to Claim Shares
Step 1: Check Your Shares
- Visit IEPF portal.
- Use PAN, name, or company details to verify unclaimed shares.
Step 2: Register / Login
- Create a login on the MCA/IEPF portal.
- Navigate to ‘Claim Shares / Dividends’.
Step 3: Fill & Submit Form IEPF-5
- Choose “Shares” as the claim type.
- Enter personal details, company name, share details, and demat account info.
- Submit online and note down your SRN.
Step 4: Prepare Physical Documents
- Signed IEPF-5 form
- Acknowledgment receipt (with SRN)
- Indemnity Bond
- Proof of entitlement: share certificates or demat statement
- Identity and address proofs
- Cancelled cheque / bank details
Step 5: Send to Company Nodal Officer / RTA
- Send the document set via registered post/courier.
- Label envelope: “Claim for refund from IEPF Authority”.
Step 6: Company Verification
- The company verifies your documents and submits them to IEPF electronically within 30 days.
Step 7: Receive Shares
- Upon approval, shares are credited to your demat account or fresh physical certificates issued.
- Any pending dividends are transferred to your bank account.
Common Issues & How to Avoid Them
- Incorrect Demat Info: Always include full 16-digit Demat ID + Client ID.
- Incomplete Documents: Check your checklist before submission.
- Lost Share Certificates: Send via secure courier / registered post.
- Legal Heirs: Ensure succession documents are complete.
FAQs
Q1. Can legal heirs claim shares?
Yes, with valid succession/probate documents.
Q2. Is there a time limit to claim shares?
No, claims can be made anytime.
Q3. How long does it take to process?
Typically 2-3 months after verification.
Q4. Do I need a demat account?
Yes, shares are transferred electronically to your demat account.
Conclusion
Claiming shares from IEPF is now simpler due to the Recent 2025 rules. By following this updated process, investors can:
- Reclaim unclaimed shares efficiently
- Ensure future dividends are received
- Avoid unnecessary delays
Always check the IEPF portal regularly and maintain your documents ready. Your unclaimed shares are your rightful assets – claim them safely!
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