Lost Your Share Certificates?
If you have lost, misplaced, or damaged your physical share certificates, don't panic. Indian securities law provides a clear procedure to obtain duplicate share certificates from the issuing company. This process involves filing an FIR, executing an indemnity bond, and submitting an application to the company or its Registrar and Transfer Agent (RTA).
⚠️ Act Quickly
If your share certificates are lost or stolen, report to the police immediately to prevent unauthorized transfer. Also lodge a complaint with the company's RTA to place a stop-transfer on the shares.
Step-by-Step Lost Share Recovery Process 2026
Recovering lost certificates is a multi-layered legal process. Any technical error in the FIR or Indemnity Bond can lead to immediate rejection by the company RTA.
- 1. File a Detailed FIR: Visit your local police station. The FIR must contain the Folio Number, Distinctive Numbers, and Certificate Numbers. If you don't have these, first obtain them from the company RTA.
- 2. Formal Intimation to RTA: Send a letter to the Registrar and Transfer Agent (RTA) informing them of the loss. Request a "Stop Transfer" and ask for the "Duplicate Issuance Checklist."
- 3. Newspaper Public Notice: Most companies require a public notice in two newspapers (one English, one local language). This notice invites objections within 15-21 days. We assist in drafting and publishing these ads.
- 4. Execution of Indemnity & Affidavit: Prepare the Indemnity Bond on non-judicial stamp paper (usually ₹100-₹500 depending on state) and get it notarized. An affidavit on a ₹100 stamp paper is also required.
- 5. Signature Verification: If your signature has changed over the years, you must get your current signature attested by your bank manager using Form ISR-2.
- 6. Submission & Verification: Submit the full docset (FIR, Ads, Bond, Affidavit, ISR forms) to the RTA. They will verify the documents and issue an Entitlement Letter or Letter of Confirmation (LOC).
- 7. Direct Credit to Demat: In 2026, companies no longer issue physical duplicate certificates. Instead, the shares are credited directly to your Demat account via the LOC.
Dos
- Always send documents via Registered Post with AD.
- Keep photocopies of everything you sign.
- Ensure all names match your PAN card exactly.
Don'ts
- Don't use white ink (whitener) on legal bonds.
- Don't sign bonds without a notary present.
- Don't ignore RTA emails regarding "deficiencies."
Documents Required
| Document | Purpose |
|---|---|
| FIR / Police Complaint Copy | Proof of loss report to police |
| Indemnity Bond (Stamp Paper) | Legal indemnification to the company |
| Notarized Affidavit | Sworn statement about loss circumstances |
| PAN Card Copy | Identity verification |
| Aadhaar Card Copy | Identity and address verification |
| Application Letter | Formal request for duplicate certificates |
| Newspaper Ad (if required) | Public notice about lost certificates |
Need Professional Assistance?
Our team handles the entire lost share recovery process — from FIR drafting to indemnity bonds and company coordination. Get expert help →