Losing a share certificate can be a stressful situation, especially when you’re unaware of the legal steps involved. Whether it’s misplaced, lost in transit, or stolen, Obtaining Duplicate Share Certificate is necessary to regain ownership of your shares.
At Share Claimers, we help investors and legal heirs navigate the recovery process smoothly. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about getting a duplicate share certificate in India.
What Is a Duplicate Share Certificate?
A duplicate share certificate is a legally issued copy of the original certificate by the company or its registrar. It’s granted when the original is lost, stolen, destroyed, or misplaced beyond recovery.
Why You Might Need a Duplicate Share Certificate
There are several common reasons you may need help obtaining duplicate share certificate, such as:
- The original was lost during shifting homes.
- It was misplaced by a family member.
- It got damaged due to floods or fire.
- You inherited shares but can’t find the physical certificate.
In any of these cases, you’ll need to apply for a legally approved duplicate from the issuing company.
Legal Procedure for Obtaining Duplicate Share Certificate
1. File an FIR (First Information Report)
The first step is reporting the loss of the certificate to your local police station. Ensure you get a copy of the FIR — it’s crucial for the legal claim.
2. Publish a Newspaper Advertisement
Next, publish a loss announcement in an English daily and a regional language newspaper. This public declaration helps prevent fraud and notifies others.
3. Submit an Affidavit & Indemnity Bond
You’ll need to draft an affidavit declaring the loss and an indemnity bond to protect the company against future claims.
4. Provide Supporting Documents
Along with your application for obtaining duplicate share certificate, include:
- PAN Card and Aadhar Card copy
- FIR copy
- Newspaper advertisement
- Old share certificate details (if any)
- Transmission documents (for heirs)
Timeframe and Charges
The process may take 30–60 days, depending on the registrar and completeness of your documents. Charges vary per company but typically include notarization, advertisement fees, and bond stamp duty.
Common Challenges Faced
Many individuals find the process of obtaining duplicate share certificate confusing and time-consuming. Common issues include:
- Rejection due to incomplete documentation
- Legal complications in case of inherited shares
- Errors in name, folio number, or share quantity
That’s where professional assistance can make a big difference.
How Share Claimers Can Help
At Share Claimers, we specialize in helping clients legally reclaim their lost, unclaimed, or inherited shares. Our expert team ensures:
- Proper drafting of affidavits and indemnity bonds
- Timely publication of newspaper ads
- Smooth coordination with registrars and companies
- Error-free application submission
We guide you throughout the process of obtaining duplicate share certificate — from FIR to final issuance.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I get a duplicate certificate without an FIR?
No. Filing an FIR is mandatory as it serves as legal proof of the loss.
Q2: What if the shareholder is deceased?
Legal heirs can apply by submitting the succession certificate, death certificate, and related documents.
Q3: Is the process the same for dematerialized shares?
No. If shares are demat, you don’t need a physical certificate. This guide is specific to physical share certificates.
Final Thoughts
Losing a share certificate doesn’t mean losing your shares. With the right guidance and documentation, obtaining duplicate share certificate is straightforward and legally enforceable. Instead of getting overwhelmed by the paperwork and legalities, let Share Claim help you recover your rightful ownership quickly and hassle-free.
Don’t let lost certificates stand in the way of your investments. Contact us today and take the first step toward securing your shares!
