Introduction
The chance that their shares and unclaimed dividends have been moved to the Investor Education and Protection Fund (IEPF) is unknown to many Indian investors. iepf claim process 2026 Companies have a duty to give the IEPF Authority both the unpaid dividends and the shares in question if dividends go unclaimed for seven years in a row.
This full 2026 step-by-step guide will assist you in understanding the complete IEPF claim procedure, necessary paperwork, timetable, and how to properly reclaim unclaimed shares and dividends if you or a family member owns unclaimed shares.
The IEPF Claim Process 2026 allows investors to recover unclaimed dividends and shares transferred to IEPF Authority.
What is IEPF?
The Indian government founded the Investor Education and Protection Fund (IEPF) in line with the Companies Act of 2013. Its primary objectives are raising awareness and protecting investment interests.
When dividends remain unclaimed for seven consecutive years, companies must transfer:
- Unpaid dividends
- Underlying shares related to those dividends
- Matured deposits
- Debentures
Once transferred, investors must file a formal claim with the IEPF Authority to recover their shares or dividends.
Why Do Shares Get Transferred to IEPF?
Shares are transferred to IEPF mainly due to:
- Dividends not claimed for 7 consecutive years
- Change in address without updating records
- Lost share certificates
- Death of shareholder
- Inactive demat account
- Lack of communication from investors
Many investors are unclear that shares can be transferred to IEPF even if the dividend isn’t paid for seven years in a row.
Under the IEPF, Who is Allowed to Submit a Claim?
The following individuals can file a claim:
- Original shareholder
- Joint shareholder
- Legal heir (after the passing of a shareholder)
- Nominee
- Authorized representative
Other legal documentation, such as a succession certificate or, depending on the situation, a probate, will be needed if the shareholder passes away.
Complete IEPF Claim Process 2026
Here is an easy-to-follow of the entire IEPF claim process:
Step 1: Check if Shares are Transferred to IEPF
Visit the IEPF Authority website and search using:
- Company name
- Shareholder name
- Folio number
Confirm whether your shares are listed under IEPF.
Step 2: Collect the Required Documents
Before sending Form IEPF-5, get the required paperwork ready. Common documents include:
- Aadhaar Card
- PAN Card
- Client Master List (Demat Account)
- Cancelled cheque
- Original share certificates (if physical)
- Indemnity bond
- Advance stamped receipt For deceased cases:
- Death certificate
- Legal heir certificate
- Succession certificate (if required)
Document accuracy is extremely important to avoid rejection.
Step 3: File Form IEPF-5 Online
The claim must be filed online through Form IEPF-5 available on the MCA portal.
Key details required:
- Personal details
- Company information
- Number of shares claimed
- Dividend details
- Demat account details
After submission, you will receive a Service Request Number (SRN).
Step 4: Send Physical Documents to Company
After filing online:
- Take printout of the filled form
- Attach all supporting documents
- Send them to the Nodal Officer of the respective company
The company verifies documents before forwarding them to IEPF Authority.
Step 5: Company Verification
The company examines:
- Claim authenticity
- Document accuracy
- Signature verification
- Shareholding confirmation
If everything is correct, the company sends a verification report to IEPF Authority.
Step 6: Approval by IEPF Authority
The IEPF Authority reviews the verification report and documents. If satisfied:
- Shares are credited to claimant’s demat account Dividends are transferred to bank account
How Long Does the IEPF Claim Take in 2026?
The average processing time ranges between:
- 4 to 6 months (standard cases)
However, it may extend to 8–12 months in complex cases such as:
- Death of shareholder
- Name mismatch
- Missing documents
- Legal heir claims
Delays often occur due to incomplete documentation.
Documents Required for IEPF Claim (Checklist)
Here is a complete checklist:
For Individual Claim:
- PAN card copy
- Aadhaar copy
- Cancelled cheque
- Demat client master list
- Indemnity bond (as per format)
- Advance stamped receipt
- Self-attested copies
For Legal Heir Claim:
- Death certificate
- Legal heir certificate
- Affidavit
- Succession certificate (if required)
- No objection certificate from other heirs
Ensure all documents are signed consistently.
Common Mistakes to Avoid During IEPF Claim
- Name mismatch between PAN and company records
- Incorrect demat account details
- Improperly executed indemnity bond
- Missing signatures
- Sending incomplete documents
- Not tracking SRN status
Small mistakes can result in rejection or delay.
Can Shares Be Recovered from IEPF After Many Years?
Yes. There is no deadline for claiming shares once transferred to IEPF. Investors can file a claim at any time.
However, earlier action is advisable to avoid documentation issues.
Is Professional Assistance Required for IEPF Claim?
While individuals can file claims themselves, many investors prefer professional guidance because:
- Documentation can be complex
- Legal heir cases require additional compliance
- Companies may ask for additional clarifications
- Rejections require re-filing
Professional assistance reduces processing time and rejection risk.
Special Case: IEPF Claim After Death of Shareholder
If the shareholder has passed away:
- Shares must first be transmitted to legal heir
- Demat account must be opened in legal heir’s name
- Proper legal documentation must be submitted
Legal heir cases are more documentation-heavy and require careful preparation.
IEPF Claim for Physical Shares
If shares were held in physical form:
- Share certificates must be surrendered
- Demat account is mandatory
- Transmission process must be completed first
Without a demat account, shares cannot be credited.
Important 2026 Updates
- Mandatory demat account for share credit
- Strict verification of KYC documents
- Faster digital tracking via MCA portal
- Increased scrutiny in legal heir cases
Investors must ensure an updated KYC before filing.
Tips to Speed Up IEPF Claim Approval
- Double-check all details before submission
- Ensure signature matches company records
- Use proper indemnity bond format
- Maintain clear photocopies
- Track SRN regularly
- Respond quickly to company queries
Preparation is key to faster approval.
Conclusion
While recovering unclaimed shares and dividends from IEPF may appear difficult, it may be done easily with the right knowledge and paperwork.
The IEPF Claim Process 2026 requires:
- Accurate form filing
- Complete documentation
- Company verification
- Patience during processing
It is suggested to verify your eligibility and start the claim process as soon as possible if you think your shares or dividends have been transferred to IEPF.
Restoring your capital safely is ensured by proper compliance.
The IEPF Claim Process 2026 allows investors to recover unclaimed dividends and shares transferred to IEPF Authority.
Questions and Answers (FAQ)
1. What is the IEPF claim process?
By filling the IEPF claim process, investors may recover shares and dividends that have been transferred to the Investor Education and Protection Fund after they have not been claimed for seven years.
2. How can I check if my shares are in IEPF?
You can search on the IEPF Authority website using your name, company name, or folio number to check the transfer status.
3. How long does the IEPF claim take?
Typically 4–6 months for normal cases. Legal heir cases may take longer.
4. Is demat account mandatory for IEPF claim?
Yes. Shares are credited only to a demat account.
5. Can legal heirs claim shares from IEPF?
Yes. Legal heirs can claim after submitting proper legal documents such as death certificate and succession certificate.
6. Can I claim old unclaimed dividends only?
Yes. You can claim dividends separately or along with shares.
7. Is there any last date for the IEPF claim?
No. There is no deadline for filing an IEPF claim.
8. What happens if my claim is rejected?
You can re-submit the claim after correcting errors mentioned by the authority.
9. Can I file an IEPF claim without professional help?
Yes, but due to documentation complexity many investors prefer expert guidance
10. How many times can I apply for an IEPF claim?
You can reapply if the claim is rejected or incomplete.