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How to Recover Shares of Hindustan Zinc Limited (HZL) from IEPF with Share Samadhan

How to Recover Shares of Hindustan Zinc Limited (HZL) from IEPF with Share Samadhan

06, Aug 2025

Have you or your family lost track of shares once purchased in Hindustan Zinc Limited? You're not alone. With decades of transitions, mergers, and regulatory updates, many investors have seen their shares transferred to the Investor Education and Protection Fund (IEPF). But there is good news—these shares are not lost forever. They can be recovered.

This blog provides a step-by-step guide to reclaiming your HZL shares, outlines the company’s historical milestones, and explains how Share Samadhan can assist in retrieving what’s rightfully yours.

About Hindustan Zinc Limited (HZL)

Hindustan Zinc Limited (HZL), a subsidiary of Vedanta Limited, is India’s only and the world’s second-largest integrated producer of zinc. Listed on the NSE and BSE, it operates across five districts in Rajasthan and one in Uttarakhand, managing mines, smelters, and a silver refinery. With an average zinc-lead grade of 6.5%, HZL has a resource and reserve base of 453.2 million tonnes and a mine life of over 25 years. Vedanta owns 63.42% of the company, while the Government of India holds 27.92%.

HZL has a strong legacy, beginning as a public sector undertaking and transitioning to private ownership under Vedanta Group. Today, it remains a market leader in India’s zinc industry and ranks among the top 5 global silver producers.

Year-wise History of Hindustan Zinc Limited

Why HZL Shares Get Transferred to IEPF

According to the Companies Act, 2013, if a shareholder fails to claim dividends for 7 consecutive years, both the dividends and underlying shares are transferred to the IEPF. Some common reasons include:

  • Death of shareholder without informing heirs.

  • Change in contact details not updated.

  • Physical shares not dematerialized.

  • Misplaced share certificates or folio numbers.

Step-by-Step Guide to Recover Shares from IEPF

Step 1: Check Eligibility

 Ensure you are either the shareholder or the legal heir/nominee.

Step 2: Search Your Name on IEPF Website

 Go to iepf.gov.in and search by shareholder name or company name.

Step 3: Fill and Submit IEPF Form-5

 Provide PAN, contact details, bank account, and demat information.

Step 4: Submit Physical Documents

 Send printed Form-5 along with:

  • PAN & Aadhaar (or Passport for NRIs)

  • Demat client master report

  • Cancelled cheque

  • Shareholding proof (old certificates or statements)

  • Legal heirship documents (if applicable)

Step 5: Verification & Approval

 The company and RTA verify documents before sending them to IEPF Authority.

Step 6: Reclaim Shares and Dividends

 Once approved, shares are transferred back to your demat account and unclaimed dividends are credited to your bank.

Dividend History Table of Hindustan Zinc Limited Here

Source: https://www.moneycontrol.com/company-facts/hindustanzinc/dividends/HZ/ 

Share Price Graph of Hindustan Zinc Limited:

Source: https://www.moneycontrol.com/india/stockpricequote/metals-non-ferrous/hindustanzinc/HZ 

How Share Samadhan Makes It Easy

Share Samadhan has helped thousands of investors recover dormant and unclaimed shares, including those of HZL. Here’s how we help:

  • Track folios and trace lost shareholdings

  • Assist in filling and filing IEPF Form-5

  • Ensure documentation is complete

  • Coordinate with HZL and its RTA

  • Help with legal succession documents and affidavits

  • Offer full support to NRIs (including POA and notarization)

With our assistance, you don’t have to handle any of the legal or procedural hassle alone.

Why You Should Act Now

  • Shares of HZL have appreciated significantly since privatization.

  • Unclaimed dividends also accumulate interest.

  • Proactive recovery helps in estate consolidation and tax planning.

  • IEPF shares can only be claimed within legal time limits.

FAQ 1: What causes shares of Hindustan Zinc to be transferred to IEPF?

 Shares are transferred to the Investor Education and Protection Fund (IEPF) if dividends on them remain unclaimed for seven consecutive years. This usually happens when shareholders are unaware of their investments, change contact details without updating records, or in cases of inheritance where legal heirs don’t know about the holding. Physical share certificates that were never dematerialized are also a common reason. Once transferred, both the shares and dividends must be claimed from IEPF.

FAQ 2: Can I recover shares of a deceased parent from IEPF without original share certificates?

 Yes, even if you don’t have the original certificates, shares can still be recovered. You’ll need valid documents like a death certificate, succession certificate/legal heirship proof, PAN, Aadhaar, and a demat account. Share Samadhan helps in tracing folio numbers, filing IEPF Form-5, and coordinating with Hindustan Zinc and its RTA. Legal affidavits or indemnity bonds may be required, but recovery is absolutely possible with proper documentation and expert guidance.

FAQ 3: How long does it typically take to recover Hindustan Zinc shares from IEPF?

 The timeline varies by case complexity but usually takes 8 months to 1.5 years. This includes online submission of Form IEPF-5, dispatching physical documents to the company and RTA, and IEPF authority verification. Delays often occur due to incomplete paperwork, incorrect demat details, or missing succession documents. With Share Samadhan’s assistance, the process is handled smoothly with expert follow-ups, reducing delays and ensuring that all requirements are met correctly and on time.

FAQ 4: Can I recover dividends along with the shares transferred to IEPF?

 Yes, all unclaimed dividends associated with the transferred shares can be claimed along with the shares. Once your Form IEPF-5 is approved and the documents verified, dividends for all relevant years are credited to your linked bank account. However, you must claim within the timeframe mandated by the IEPF—especially for dividends transferred from the Senior Citizen Welfare Fund. Share Samadhan ensures no step is missed while helping you recover both shares and dividends.

FAQ 5: Why should I choose Share Samadhan to recover Hindustan Zinc shares from IEPF?

 Recovering shares from IEPF involves legal formalities, coordination with multiple authorities, and technical paperwork. Share Samadhan simplifies the process by offering end-to-end support—identifying unclaimed holdings, filing Form IEPF-5, compiling documentation, and liaising with Hindustan Zinc, its RTA, and IEPF. For NRIs, we also assist with apostille, POA, and remote documentation. Our team ensures timely, error-free processing so you can reclaim your rightful assets without stress or confusion.

FAQ 6: I’m aware that my family owned HZL shares, but I don’t know the folio number or where the records are. Can the shares still be recovered?

 Yes. Even if you don’t have the folio number, demat details, or physical certificates, lost shares can still be traced. Using basic information like the shareholder’s full name, father’s name, and purchase-time address, Share Samadhan can help locate the holdings through company and registrar archives—making recovery possible even without documentation.

Conclusion

Hindustan Zinc Limited has been a vital part of India’s industrial story. If your or your family’s investment in HZL has gone dormant or unclaimed, now is the time to recover it. Share Samadhan ensures that your claims are handled with expertise, speed, and compliance.

Don’t let your family’s legacy remain unclaimed. Get in touch with Share Samadhan today.

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Recover Your Adani Total Gas Limited Shares from IEPF with Share Samadhan

Recover Your Adani Total Gas Limited Shares from IEPF with Share Samadhan

01, Aug 2025

Have your shares of Adani Total Gas Limited (ATGL) been transferred to the Investor Education and Protection Fund (IEPF)? You're not alone. Many shareholders lose access to their investments due to inactivity, missed dividends, or inheritance issues. The good news is: your shares are not lost forever. With the right assistance, you can reclaim them.

This blog outlines the complete process of recovering Adani Total Gas shares from IEPF and how Share Samadhan helps investors—both in India and abroad—regain what is rightfully theirs.

Understanding Adani Total Gas Limited- Company Overview

Adani Total Gas Limited (ATGL), originally incorporated as Adani Gas Limited on August 5, 2005, is one of India’s leading city gas distribution (CGD) companies. Headquartered in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, ATGL supplies piped natural gas (PNG) to residential, commercial, and industrial sectors and compressed natural gas (CNG) to the automotive sector.

Key Milestones and History of ATGL

Why Shares of ATGL Get Transferred to IEPF

As per Section 124 of the Companies Act, 2013, any shares for which dividends remain unclaimed for seven consecutive years are transferred to IEPF. This typically occurs due to:

  • Failure to claim dividends.

  • Outdated KYC or contact details.

  • Death of shareholder without succession process.

  • Physical shares not dematerialized.

These shares, along with accrued dividends, can be legally claimed through a structured process.

How to Recover Adani Total Gas Shares from IEPF

Step 1: Confirm Eligibility

 You must be the original shareholder or a legal heir. Dividends must have remained unclaimed for over 7 years.

Step 2: Search for Shares on IEPF Website

 Visit iepf.gov.in and use shareholder name or folio number to search.

Step 3: Fill Form IEPF-5

 Provide details of shares, bank and demat account, and PAN/Aadhaar.

Step 4: Submit Physical Documents

 Send Form IEPF-5 and supporting documents to ATGL and its RTA. Required docs include:
Identity proof (PAN, Aadhaar)

  • Shareholding proof

  • Succession proof (if heir)

  • Cancelled cheque

  • Client Master Report (for Demat)

Step 5: Follow-up and Verification

 IEPF and RTA verify claims. This may take 8 months - 1.5 years with regular follow-ups.

Step 6: Credit of Shares

 Once approved, shares and any pending dividends are credited to your demat and bank accounts.

How Share Samadhan Helps You Recover Your ATGL Shares

Recovering shares can be time-consuming and legally complex. Share Samadhan makes it simple with:

  • Search Assistance: We help trace unclaimed holdings.

  • Legal Documentation: Drafting of affidavits, indemnity, and succession proof.

  • Form Filing: Accurate preparation and filing of IEPF Form-5.

  • RTA Coordination: Follow-up with ATGL and its registrar.

  • End-to-End Support: From demat accounts to dividend claims.

For NRIs, we offer:

  • POA and apostille documentation

  • Remote processing

  • Multi-jurisdictional coordination

Why You Should Act Now

  • Rising Share Prices: ATGL shares have gained value over time. Reclaim your rightful ownership.

  • Dividend Accruals: Unclaimed dividends may amount to lakhs.

  • Legacy Wealth: Recover inherited assets and consolidate family investments.

  • Time Sensitivity: Delays can cause procedural complications.

Dividend History Table 

Source: https://www.moneycontrol.com/company-facts/adanitotalgas/dividends/ADG01/#google_vignette 

Share Price Growth Graph

Source: https://www.moneycontrol.com/india/stockpricequote/gas-distribution/adanitotalgas/ADG01 

FAQs

Q1: Can I claim ATGL shares if I’ve lost the original share certificate?

 Yes, you can still recover your ATGL shares even if the original physical certificates are missing. By submitting valid identity proof, PAN card, and demat account details—along with an indemnity bond and affidavit—you can establish ownership. Share Samadhan can assist in tracing your folio, drafting the required legal documents, and handling the verification with the RTA and IEPF authority to ensure a seamless recovery without delays or rejections.

Q2: I am an NRI. Can I recover my ATGL shares from abroad?

 Absolutely. NRIs are eligible to claim shares transferred to IEPF from anywhere in the world. Share Samadhan offers complete assistance including demat account opening (NRO/NRE), notarization and apostille of documents, and preparation of Power of Attorney, so you never need to travel to India. Our team ensures that all regulatory and compliance procedures are met while coordinating with the IEPF Authority, Registrar, and ATGL to expedite your claim.

Q3: Can I recover dividends along with ATGL shares from the IEPF?

 Yes. Any unpaid or unclaimed dividends linked to your ATGL shares that were transferred to IEPF can also be recovered. These dividends are released after the IEPF-5 form is approved and ownership is verified. Share Samadhan ensures accurate dividend tracing and helps you claim all associated benefits—including interest (if applicable)—from the date they were due until the shares were transferred to IEPF.

Q4: How long does it take to recover ATGL shares from IEPF?

 The recovery process typically takes between 8 months- 1.5 years. The duration depends on various factors such as completeness of documents, legal heirship verification (in case of deceased holders), and IEPF Authority processing times. Share Samadhan minimizes delays by ensuring error-free documentation, proactive follow-ups with ATGL’s RTA, and expert handling of all procedural steps from IEPF Form-5 submission to demat credit.

Q5: What if the shareholder is deceased—can legal heirs claim ATGL shares?

 Yes, legal heirs can recover the shares of a deceased shareholder through the IEPF claim process. You'll need a succession certificate, probate of will, or a legal heir certificate, along with identity proofs and a claim form. Share Samadhan simplifies the legal complexities by helping heirs identify unclaimed holdings, arrange the required documentation, and ensure that the rightful claim is filed and approved without unnecessary delays or legal hurdles.

Conclusion

Your investments in Adani Total Gas Limited are not gone—just misplaced. Whether it’s due to inheritance, inactivity, or paperwork delays, Share Samadhan can help you reclaim what’s rightfully yours. Our team ensures timely, accurate, and hassle-free share recovery, no matter where you reside.

Don’t let your legacy go unclaimed. Reach out to Share Samadhan today.
 

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Recover Your LTIMindtree Limited Shares from IEPF

Recover Your LTIMindtree Limited Shares from IEPF

31, Jul 2025

LTIMindtree Limited, a leading global technology consulting and digital solutions company, has helped hundreds of enterprises evolve through innovation and strategy since 1996. With over 86,000 employees, 700+ clients across 40+ countries, and a current market capitalization of ₹1.78 lakh crore, LTIMindtree is a vital player in the Indian IT services sector. However, thousands of investors are unaware that their LTIMindtree shares or dividends may have been transferred to the Investor Education and Protection Fund (IEPF) due to inactivity.
If you or your family members held shares in LTIMindtree (formerly L&T Infotech or Mindtree) and haven’t claimed dividends for over seven years, this blog will help you understand how to recover them with support from Share Samadhan.

What is IEPF and Why Are Shares Transferred?


The Investor Education and Protection Fund (IEPF) is a fund established by the Ministry of Corporate Affairs under the Companies Act, 2013. According to IEPF rules:

  • If dividends remain unclaimed for 7 consecutive years

  • The corresponding shares and benefits are transferred to the IEPF

This includes:

  • Unclaimed dividends

  • Matured deposits and debentures

  • Application money is due for refund

  • Shares linked to those benefits

Once transferred, these shares can only be claimed back by applying with the IEPF Authority.

LTIMindtree Ltd: A 29-Year Legacy in Technology

Below is the complete year-wise history of LTIMindtree Limited, rewritten and organized in a tabular format:

Source: https://www.goodreturns.in/company/ltimindtree/history.html 

Placeholder: Dividend History Table

Placeholder: Share Price Graph

Source: https://www.moneycontrol.com/india/stockpricequote/computers-software/ltimindtree/LI12 

How to Recover LTIMindtree Shares from IEPF: Step-by-Step Guide

1. Check if Your Shares Are with IEPF

  • Visit iepf.gov.in

  • Click on the "View IEPF Claims" section

  • Search by investor name or folio number to confirm

2. Ensure Eligibility

  • Shares must have been transferred after 7 years of unclaimed dividends

  • The original shareholder or legal heir can apply

3. File Form IEPF-5 Online

  • Available at IEPF-5 Submission

  • Enter your PAN, bank account, demat account, and share details

4. Attach Necessary Documents

  • PAN and Aadhaar copies

  • Demat account statement or original share certificates

  • Bank passbook or cancelled cheque

  • Proof of entitlement (if claiming as a legal heir)

5. Download the Advance Receipt & Indemnity Bond

  • Download from the portal

  • Sign and notarize as instructed

6. Send Documents to LTIMindtree Limited's Nodal Officer

  • After online submission, send the signed documents and acknowledgment to LTIMindtree’s registered office

7. Company Verifies and Forwards to IEPF Authority

  • Verification is typically completed within 30 days

  • Upon successful verification, the claim is sent to the IEPF Authority

8. Receive Refund

  • If approved, shares are credited to your demat account

  • Dividends are transferred to your bank account

Common Mistakes That Delay IEPF Claims

  • Incomplete or incorrect form submission

  • Mismatched signatures or old address proofs

  • Missing documents like original certificates or succession proofs

  • Failure to follow up with the company post-submission

Even minor errors can lead to rejections. Double-check all details and consider expert guidance.

How Share Samadhan Helps

Share Samadhan is India’s leading service provider for recovering unclaimed investments. Our team ensures your LTIMindtree shares are recovered from IEPF with complete documentation support, legal assistance, and constant coordination with the company and IEPF Authority.

Our services include:

  • Document preparation and verification

  • Legal heir or nominee support

  • Liaising with LTIMindtree's Nodal Officer and IEPF

  • Monitoring progress and updates until resolution

With years of experience in handling complex IEPF recovery cases, Share Samadhan stands by your side as a trustworthy partner in wealth recovery.

FAQs

1. Can NRIs claim LTIMindtree shares from IEPF?

Yes, NRIs can apply with additional attested ID and address proofs issued by Indian authorities or the embassy.

2. What if I lost the original share certificates?

You will need to apply for a duplicate certificate from LTIMindtree before initiating the IEPF claim.

3. Is it necessary to have a demat account?

Yes, shares recovered from IEPF are credited only to a demat account.

4. What if the shareholder has passed away?

 Legal heirs can apply with supporting documents like a death certificate, a succession certificate, or a probate.

5. How long does the recovery process usually take?

Typically 8 months to 1.5 years, depending on document accuracy and IEPF verification timelines.

6. I held LTIMindtree shares jointly with a family member, but I’m not sure who the primary holder was. Can I still recover them?

Yes. In joint shareholding cases, recovery is possible even if you're unsure who the first holder was. With basic information like both names, PAN numbers (if available), and the original purchase address, Share Samadhan can investigate through registrar records and help establish rightful ownership—ensuring the shares don’t remain forgotten due to uncertainty in documentation.

Final Thoughts

LTIMindtree shares may be high in value today, but unclaimed holdings are often forgotten due to a lack of awareness or documentation issues. If you suspect any LTIMindtree shares linked to you or your family are transferred to IEPF, don’t delay the recovery process.
With Share Samadhan, you don’t have to face the process alone. We bring years of professional experience, legal know-how, and a strong track record in recovering shares, dividends, and lost investments.
Your wealth is your right. Let us help you reclaim it.

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Recover Your Siemens Limited Shares from IEPF

Recover Your Siemens Limited Shares from IEPF

29, Jul 2025

Siemens Limited, a leading engineering and technology firm, has shaped India’s industrial and technological journey for decades. A subsidiary of Siemens AG, Germany, Siemens Limited operates across energy, healthcare, infrastructure, and business sectors. However, like many large corporations with a long history, several investors have unclaimed dividends or shares, transferred to the Investor Education and Protection Fund (IEPF) due to inactivity.
If you or your family members have Siemens shares that remained unclaimed for over seven years, you can recover them through the IEPF claim process. Here’s a complete guide, yearwise, along with essential company milestones.

Siemens Limited: A Journey Through the Years

Early Foundation and Expansion (1957–1967)

  • 1957: Incorporated on March 2 as Siemens Engineering and Manufacturing Company of India Private Limited.

  • 1959: Acquired a workshop in Calcutta for manufacturing switchboards and electrical equipment.

  • 1961: Took over East Asiatic Siemens-Reiniger-Werke AG’s operations in India.

  • 1965–1967: Expanded shareholding with Siemens AG, West Germany, increasing foreign collaboration.

  • 1967: Renamed Siemens India Ltd.

Name Change and Growth Phase (1967–1987)

  • 1970: Siemens AG merged Siemens-Reiniger-Werke AG and Siemens-Schuckertwerke AG globally.

  • 1971–1976: Issued bonus shares, increased public shareholding, and expanded manufacturing capabilities.

  • 1981–1987: Launched several debentures; expanded into medical engineering and railway automation.

  • 1987: Renamed again as Siemens Limited.


Industrial Innovation and Diversification (1988–2000)

  • 1988–1990: Introduced microprocessor-based drives, digital UPS systems, and energy-optimizing AC Drives.

  • 1991–1995: Focused on automation, renewable energy (windmills), and communication systems.

  • 1996–2000: Diversified further into smart cards, solar technology (with Siemens Solar Industries), and hotel solutions.

Key Growth Milestones (2001–2010)

  • 2001–2003: Expanded into mobile telephony; launched low-cost mobile models; partnered with AGI USA.

  • 2004–2006: Expanded medical equipment division; strategic alliances with Bosch and Aethra.

  • 2007–2009: Acquired iMetrex Technologies; started PETNET services in India; focused on gas-insulated switchgear manufacturing.

  • 2010: Awarded contracts for India’s first Formula 1 track power systems; expanded renewable and metro rail projects.

Strategic Projects and Digital Transformation (2011–2023)

  • 2011–2015:
    - Major projects with Chennai Metro, Power Grid Bangladesh, and Indian Railways
    - Launched the SIMATIC S7-1500 automation system.
    - Installed India’s first wireless ultrasound system.

  • 2016–2018:
    - Smart building projects launched.
    - Siemens Gamesa Renewable Energy expanded solar and wind projects.

  • 2019–2021:
    - Set up MindSphere Application Centers for digital industries.
    - Siemens Mobility expanded metro projects across India.
    - Partnered with Switch Mobility Automotive for e-mobility projects.

  • 2022–2023:
    - Established a rail bogie factory in Aurangabad.
    - Awarded a landmark ₹26,000 crore locomotive contract.

Source: https://www.moneycontrol.com/company-facts/siemens/history/S#goog_rewarded 

How to Recover Siemens Limited Shares from IEPF

Recovering shares from the IEPF is a structured process. Here’s how you can reclaim your rightful investments:

1. Check Eligibility

  • Siemens Limited shares are transferred to the IEPF after seven consecutive years of unclaimed dividends.

  • Only shareholders (or legal heirs) can file a claim.

2. How to Find Unclaimed Shares

  • Visit the IEPF website

  • Search using your name, folio number, or company name to locate the shares.

3. Submit IEPF Form-5

  • Fill and submit the IEPF-5 Form online.

  • Attach documents like PAN card, Aadhaar, original share certificates (or demat proof), and bank details.

4. Send Documents to Siemens Limited

  • After online filing, forward the physical documents along with acknowledgment to Siemens Limited’s Nodal Officer for verification.

5. Verification by Company

  • Siemens verifies the documents and forwards them to the IEPF Authority.

6. Refund Processing

  • Upon approval, shares will be credited back to your demat account.

  • Dividends, if any, are credited separately.

Placeholder for Dividend History Table

Source: https://www.moneycontrol.com/company-facts/siemens/dividends/S/#goog_rewarded 

Placeholder for Share Price Graph

Source: https://www.moneycontrol.com/india/stockpricequote/infrastructure-general/siemens/S#google_vignette 

Important Points to Remember

  • Claims must be filed carefully to avoid rejections or delays.

  • Legal heirs must produce a succession certificate if the shareholder has passed away.

  • Share certificates (if physical) must be intact; if lost, a duplicate issuance procedure will be needed.

  • Demat details are mandatory for receiving shares electronically.

About Siemens Limited Today

Siemens continues to serve vital sectors like healthcare, infrastructure, manufacturing, mobility, and energy. Its focus on digital industries, sustainability, and smart mobility solutions positions it as a future-ready corporation with a commitment to innovation.

Why Choose Share Samadhan for Recovering Siemens Shares?

Recovering shares from IEPF can be time-consuming and complex. Errors, missed steps, or lack of legal understanding can delay or even derail your claim. Share Samadhan offers expert help with:

  • Complete document preparation

  • Legal compliance and verifications

  • Coordinating with Siemens Limited and the IEPF Authority

  • Reducing time and errors

Our team of financial and legal experts ensures that your rightful investments are returned to you in the shortest possible time, without stress.

FAQs

Q1: Can NRIs reclaim Siemens shares from IEPF?

Yes, NRIs can reclaim shares by submitting additional identity and address proofs attested by Indian authorities.

Q2: What happens if the original share certificates are lost?

You will need to apply for duplicate share certificates through Siemens Limited before filing IEPF-5.

Q3: How long does the recovery process take?

Typically, 8 months–1.5 years, depending on document completeness and IEPF Authority processing time.

Q4: Is it necessary to open a demat account?

Yes, as shares are now credited only in demat form after IEPF recovery.

Q5: Can a nominee claim the shares if the shareholder is deceased?

 Yes, but legal documents like a death certificate, a succession certificate, or a probate are needed.

Q6: I no longer have any records or documents of my Siemens shares from years ago. Can they still be located and recovered?

Yes. Even if you’ve misplaced all documents, your Siemens shares can still be traced using basic identifiers like your full name, father’s name, PAN (if available), and the address used at the time of purchase. Share Samadhan uses registrar records and company archives to locate and verify such long-lost investments.

Final Words

If you have Siemens Limited shares lying unclaimed or dividends unpaid, now is the time to recover them before they are lost forever.
Let Share Samadhan be your trusted partner in claiming back what rightfully belongs to you — safely, professionally, and efficiently.
 

 

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How NRIs Can Recover Shares from IEPF

How NRIs Can Recover Shares from IEPF

28, Jul 2025

The Reality of Forgotten Investments

Over the decades, many Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) have invested in India’s public companies, encouraged by their trust in Indian growth and promising dividend opportunities. Through physical share certificates or early-stage DEMAT investments, these long-term investors built valuable portfolios. However, many of these shares, along with unclaimed dividends, now sit under the custody of the Investor Education and Protection Fund (IEPF) due to prolonged inaction. This blog will help you understand how to initiate NRI Shares Recovery from IEPF, the documents required, and why relying on Share Samadhan can make the entire process smoother and more effective.

Understanding IEPF and NRI Forfeiture Risks

In India, if a dividend remains untouched for seven straight years, it doesn’t just disappear — it, along with the corresponding shares, gets moved to the Investor Education and Protection Fund (IEPF). While this rule is meant to safeguard investors, it often creates unexpected trouble for NRIs.

Why? Unlike residents, many NRIs don’t receive dividend updates on time. Maybe the contact details weren’t updated. Maybe the share certificates were lost during a move overseas. Sometimes, they simply aren’t aware of the communication. And by the time they realize what’s happened, their hard-earned investment has already been marked as unclaimed.

Who Qualifies as an NRI?

As Per the Income Tax Act:

  • Individuals who have not resided in India for 182 days or more during a financial year.

  • Individuals who are in India for less than 60 days in a financial year and have not stayed in India for 365 days in the preceding 4 years.

As Per FEMA:

  • Someone who resides outside India for work, business, or any purpose, indicating an indefinite stay abroad.

Common examples include:

  • Indians working in the Middle East, the USA, the UK, or Singapore.

  • Students pursuing education abroad.

  • Entrepreneurs operating businesses from overseas.

These investors often contribute significantly to the NRI invest in the Indian stock market.

The Typical Scenario- How Shares Land in IEPF

Let’s say an NRI holds shares in a public company purchased in the early 2000s. They might:

  • They forgot to update their foreign address

  • Missed dividend notifications

  • Not cash physical dividend warrants

After seven years of unclaimed dividends, the company must legally transfer:

  • All unclaimed dividends to the IEPF

  • Corresponding shares to the IEPF's DEMAT account

Once this happens, the original shareholder loses access to the shares until a formal claim is filed.

Step-by-Step Process to Recover NRI Shares from IEPF

Here’s a simplified view of how Share Samadhan assists in NRI Asset Recovery:

Step 1: Check Share Status

Before filing, it's crucial to determine whether the shares are still with the company or have already been transferred to the IEPF.

  • Share Samadhan contacts the Registrar and Transfer Agent (RTA) of the company.

  • They verify shareholding status using the folio number, PAN, and shareholder credentials.

  • IEPF records are also searched online to track the current status of dividends and share transfers.

Step 2: Document Collection

Here is a standard list of documents required:

  Category

  Required Documents

  Identity Proof

  Self-attested copy of Passport, OCI/PIO card (if applicable)

  Address Proof

  Foreign address proof (e.g., utility bill, license)

  Bank Details

  Cancelled cheque and recent bank statement

  Demat Account

  Client Master List (CML) from the Depository Participant

  Shareholding Proof

  Original/duplicate share certificates or demat statements

  IEPF Requirements

  Indemnity bond, advance receipt, Form IEPF-5 printout

Share Samadhan provides customized checklists to ensure nothing gets missed, especially since requirements can vary by company.

Step 3: Filing Form IEPF-5

  • Share Samadhan assists in preparing and filing Form IEPF-5, which is the official reclaim form.

  • The Service Request Number (SRN) is generated after submission for tracking purposes.

  • All details must match precisely with the RTA’s records to avoid rejections.

Step 4: Submitting Physical Documents

Once the form is submitted online:

  • All signed and attested documents, including the indemnity bond and advance receipt, must be couriered to the Nodal Officer of the respective company.

  • Timely follow-ups are crucial to ensure that the nodal verification doesn’t lapse.

Step 5: Company Verification

  • The company reviews the submitted documents.

  • If everything is satisfactory, they forward the verification report to the IEPF Authority within 30 days.

Step 6: IEPF Authority Processing

  • After receiving the report from the company, the IEPF scrutinizes the claim.

  • If approved, the shares are credited back to the investor’s DEMAT account and the unclaimed dividend is transferred to their NRI bank account.

Case Study- Seema’s NRI Share Recovery Journey

Let’s take an example:

Seema, an NRI based in Canada, had shares in XYZ Ltd. that she inherited from her late father. The shares remained inactive for years. All dividend cheques sent to their old Indian address went unclaimed.

Here's how Share Samadhan helped her:

  1. Verified the IEPF transfer status for XYZ Ltd.

  2. Assisted in compiling documents across Canada and India

  3. Filled and filed Form IEPF-5 accurately

  4. Sent notarized documents to the company’s Nodal Officer

  5. Followed up until company verification and IEPF approval

Within 1.5 years, Seema had her shares and dividend amount credited back to her accounts.

Why NRIs Trust Share Samadhan

1. End-to-End Assistance

Share Samadhan acts as a single window for:

  • Tracking investments

  • Coordinating with companies and RTAs

  • Managing IEPF documentation

  • Ensuring deadlines and compliance are met

2. Legal & Documentation Support

Their experts are well-versed in:

  • Succession certificate procurement

  • Legal heir claims for the joint or deceased holders

  • Affidavit and indemnity bond drafting

3. Global Coordination

No matter where you're based—USA, UAE, UK, Singapore or other parts of the world—Share Samadhan offers:

  • Email consultations

  • Courier-ready documentation packages

  • India-based liaisons to coordinate with RTAs and companies

4. Time-Saving and Transparent

Recovering shares from IEPF without help can take over 3-4 years, with the risk of rejection due to minor errors. Share Samadhan’s expertise reduces processing time and ensures accurate submissions from the start.

What Makes NRI Claims More Complex?

While the IEPF recovery process remains the same for all, NRI claims include additional challenges:

  Challenge

  Impact

  Distance & time zone

  Delay in communication and document dispatch

  Signature mismatch

  Differences in past and current records cause claim rejections

  Foreign notarization

  Extra costs and delays in notarizing documents

  Succession-related claims

  Inheritance paperwork and legal complications

Share Samadhan is equipped to handle each of these layers.

Tips to Protect Your NRI Investments

  • Regularly monitor DEMAT statements

  • Update your email, mobile, and address in every company/RTA holding your shares

  • Link PAN to Aadhaar and bank accounts (as applicable)

  • Convert physical shares to DEMAT without delay

  • Claim dividends annually to reset the 7-year rule

These steps are simple yet essential for safeguarding your NRI stock investment portfolio.

Final Thoughts- Don’t Let Your Wealth Remain Unclaimed

NRI Asset Recovery is not just about reclaiming shares. It’s about reclaiming your financial legacy in India. The process is procedural but not impossible, especially when you have a reliable partner.

With over a decade of trust and 10,000+ successful cases, Share Samadhan is India’s go-to name for helping NRIs recover what is rightfully theirs.

If you or your family members suspect you have unclaimed shares in India, take the first step.

Reach out to Share Samadhan. Let your investments come back to you.

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