How to recover ITC Shares from IEPF

How to recover ITC Shares from IEPF. ITC Limited is one of India’s most diversified and respected conglomerates, with a strong presence across multiple sectors such as FMCG, Hotels, Paperboards & Packaging, Agriculture, and Information Technology. Founded in 1910 as the Imperial Tobacco Company of India Limited, ITC has evolved over the decades with a vision for sustainability, innovation, and nation-building.
Today, ITC’s FMCG brands such as Aashirvaad, Sunfeast, Bingo!, Classmate, Fiama, Vivel, Nimyle, Savlon, and ITC Master Chef are used daily in millions of Indian households. Its businesses contribute significantly to the country’s economy through employment, exports, and rural development.
This article gives a simple overview of ITC Limited and explains how shareholders can recover unclaimed dividends or shares that have been transferred to the Investor Education and Protection Fund (IEPF).
History and Background of ITC
ITC was established in 1910 as a tobacco company, but over the years it diversified into multiple business sectors. The company was renamed India Tobacco Company Limited in 1970 and later became ITC Limited in 2001 to reflect its growing multi-business character.
ITC today operates through world-class brands, a strong distribution network, and a deep commitment to sustainability under its “Triple Bottom Line” philosophy focusing on economic, social, and environmental performance. The company continues to innovate across FMCG, agriculture, hospitality, and paperboards, making it one of India’s most valuable and trusted corporations.
Financial Performance
ITC Limited is listed on both the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) and National Stock Exchange (NSE). With consistent revenue growth, strong profitability, and a rich brand portfolio, ITC is a preferred choice for long-term investors.
ITC regularly declares dividends. However, many shareholders do not claim their dividends on time. When a dividend remains unclaimed for seven consecutive years, the amount and the corresponding shares are transferred to the Investor Education and Protection Fund (IEPF). This article explains how shareholders or their legal heirs can recover such dividends or shares. 
Process to Claim Dividend or Shares from IEPF (ITC Limited)
Step 1: Check Your Unclaimed Dividend Status
Visit:

ITC Limited’s website → Investor Relations section

IEPF website

Enter your Folio Number or DP ID/Client ID to check whether any unpaid dividends or shares have been transferred to the IEPF.
Step 2: Send Physical Documents to ITC’s Registrar
ITC’s Registrar & Share Transfer Agent (RTA) is:
Virginia House,
37 Jawaharlal Nehru Road,
Kolkata, West Bengal, 700071.
Email: isc@itc.in  Helpline: 033-22886426 / 0034
Follow these steps:

Contact the RTA or ITC’s Nodal Officer to confirm your eligibility to claim transferred shares or dividends.

Request an Entitlement Letter, confirming:

Number of shares transferred to IEPF

Amount of unclaimed dividend

Confirmation that you are the rightful shareholder

Send your request along with:

Copy of PAN and Aadhaar

Details of your shareholding (Folio or Demat details)

Old dividend warrants or proofs (if available)

Step 3: Prepare IEPF Form-5 on MCA Website
Visit MCA (Ministry of Corporate Affairs) → IEPF Services.
Fill Form IEPF-5 with details including:
Documents Required:

Personal Information (PAN, Aadhaar, Address, Email, Mobile)

Company Name: ITC Limited

Claim Details: No. of shares / dividend amount

Demat Information: DP ID & Client ID

Submit the form online and then download:

Filled IEPF Form-5

Acknowledgement (SRN)

Keep these for submission to the company.
Step 4: Prepare Document Set for Submission to ITC Limited
Once you have completed and submitted IEPF Form-5 online, print a copy of the form along with the acknowledgement. Attach all required supporting documents such as identity proof, address proof, cancelled cheque, share certificates (if physical), and indemnity bond. These documents should be properly self-attested and compiled in an organised manner before sending the complete set as a hard copy to the Nodal Officer of ITC Limited for verification and further processing.
Required Documents:

Signed printout of IEPF-5 & acknowledgement

Indemnity Bond (on stamp paper as per IEPF rules)

Advance Stamped Receipt (signed by claimant & witnesses)

Entitlement Letter (from ITC / RTA)

Self-attested copies of:

PAN & Aadhaar

Cancelled Cheque

Client Master List (CML) from DP

Original Share Certificates (if shares were physical)

Additional Documents for Legal Heirs:

Death Certificate of original shareholder

Legal Heir Certificate / Succession Certificate / Will

NOCs from all other heirs (if applicable)

ID and address proof of all heirs

Step 5: Send Documents to ITC Nodal Officer
Send the complete set by Speed Post or Courier to:
Nodal Officer – IEPFMr. R. K. Singhi,
(Executive Vice President and Company Secretary)
Investor Service Centre, ITC Limited,
37 Jawaharlal Nehru Road,
Kolkata 700 071 – India
Email: investor@itc.in
Step 6: Verification by ITC Limited
After receiving the complete document set, ITC Limited carefully examines all submitted papers to confirm the authenticity of the claim and the identity of the claimant. The company cross-checks details with its records, including shareholding history and transfer status to the IEPF. Once satisfied, ITC prepares a formal Verification Report and forwards it to the IEPF Authority, usually within 30 days. The refund or transfer process by the IEPF Authority begins only after this verification report is approved.
Step 7: Approval by IEPF Authority
The IEPF Authority examines the verification report and documents. If everything is satisfactory:

Shares are credited to your Demat Account

Unclaimed dividends (if any) are transferred to your bank account

The processing time may vary depending on the completeness of documents.
Final Word
Recovering unclaimed shares or dividends of ITC Limited from the IEPF is an important process that allows shareholders and their legal heirs to regain ownership of their rightful financial assets. While the procedure may appear complex at first, it is designed to ensure transparency, prevent fraud, and protect genuine investors. By carefully following each step from verifying unclaimed holdings and obtaining the entitlement letter to filing Form IEPF-5 and submitting a complete and accurate set of documents the process becomes systematic and achievable.
ITC Limited, together with the IEPF Authority, provides a structured and investor-friendly framework to facilitate smooth recovery. Timely communication with the Registrar and Nodal Officer, along with precise documentation, greatly reduces the chances of delay or rejection. Shareholders are encouraged to keep their contact and Demat details updated and regularly monitor their investments to avoid future transfers to IEPF. With patience, proper guidance, and attention to detail, investors can successfully reclaim their unclaimed dividends and shares and safeguard their long-term financial interests. 
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. What is IEPF?
Ans. IEPF stands for Investor Education and Protection Fund, created by the Government of India to safeguard investor interests. It holds shares, dividends, and other financial benefits that remain unclaimed for a long period. The fund ensures that such amounts are preserved safely and can be claimed by the rightful owners through a formal recovery process.
Q2. Why were my ITC shares/dividends transferred to the IEPF?
Ans. If dividends remain unpaid or unclaimed for seven consecutive years, ITC is legally required to transfer both the unpaid dividends and the related shares to the IEPF. This transfer is done to prevent misuse and ensure transparency. Once transferred, shareholders must apply through IEPF to recover their assets.
Q3. How do I check if my ITC shares are in the IEPF?
Ans. You can check the status on ITC Limited’s website by visiting the Investor Relations section. Alternatively, you can search on the official IEPF portal by entering your Folio Number or Demat details. This helps confirm whether your shares or dividends have been transferred.
Q4. Is filing IEPF-5 mandatory?
Ans. Yes, filing Form IEPF-5 is compulsory for claiming shares or dividends from the IEPF. This form officially initiates your recovery request with the IEPF Authority. Without submitting this form, your claim cannot be processed further.
Q5. Can legal heirs claim shares from the IEPF?
Ans. Yes, legal heirs or nominees are eligible to claim shares from the IEPF. They must submit supporting documents such as a death certificate, succession certificate, and NOCs from other heirs. These documents help establish their legal right over the shares.
Q6. How long does it take to get ITC shares back from the IEPF?
Ans. ITC usually verifies the claim within 30 days after receiving the complete set of documents. After verification, the application is forwarded to the IEPF Authority for final approval. The overall process can take several weeks or even months depending on the case.
Q7. Do I need to submit original documents?
Ans. In most cases, original share certificates must be submitted if the shares were held in physical form. Self-attested copies of identity and address proof are also required. For legal heir claims, original legal documents may be requested for verification.
Q8. What if my documents are incomplete?
Ans. If the submitted documents are incomplete or incorrect, the claim process may be delayed or rejected. The company may ask for resubmission or clarification of documents. Therefore, it is important to ensure that all papers are clear and properly signed.
Q9. Will recovered shares be sent in physical form?
Ans. No, recovered shares are not issued in physical form under current regulations. All shares reclaimed from the IEPF are credited directly to the claimant’s Demat account. This ensures safer holding and easier future transactions.
Q10. Whom should I contact for assistance?
Ans. You can contact ITC’s Registrar and Transfer Agent, for assistance regarding the claim process. You may also reach ITC’s Nodal Officer for official guidance and updates. Both contacts can help resolve procedural queries and document-related issues.

ITC Limited is one of India’s most diversified and respected conglomerates, with a strong presence across multiple sectors such as FMCG, Hotels, Paperboards & Packaging, Agriculture, and Information Technology. Founded in 1910 as the Imperial Tobacco Company of India Limited, ITC has evolved over the decades with a vision for sustainability, innovation, and nation-building.

Today, ITC’s FMCG brands such as Aashirvaad, Sunfeast, Bingo!, Classmate, Fiama, Vivel, Nimyle, Savlon, and ITC Master Chef are used daily in millions of Indian households. Its businesses contribute significantly to the country’s economy through employment, exports, and rural development.

This article gives a simple overview of ITC Limited and explains how shareholders can recover unclaimed dividends or shares that have been transferred to the Investor Education and Protection Fund (IEPF).

History and Background of ITC

ITC was established in 1910 as a tobacco company, but over the years it diversified into multiple business sectors. The company was renamed India Tobacco Company Limited in 1970 and later became ITC Limited in 2001 to reflect its growing multi-business character.

ITC today operates through world-class brands, a strong distribution network, and a deep commitment to sustainability under its “Triple Bottom Line” philosophy focusing on economic, social, and environmental performance. The company continues to innovate across FMCG, agriculture, hospitality, and paperboards, making it one of India’s most valuable and trusted corporations.

Financial Performance

ITC Limited is listed on both the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) and National Stock Exchange (NSE). With consistent revenue growth, strong profitability, and a rich brand portfolio, ITC is a preferred choice for long-term investors.

ITC regularly declares dividends. However, many shareholders do not claim their dividends on time. When a dividend remains unclaimed for seven consecutive years, the amount and the corresponding shares are transferred to the Investor Education and Protection Fund (IEPF). This article explains how shareholders or their legal heirs can recover such dividends or shares.

Process to Claim Dividend or Shares from IEPF (ITC Limited)

Step 1: Check Your Unclaimed Dividend Status

Visit:

ITC Limited’s website → Investor Relations section
IEPF website

Enter your Folio Number or DP ID/Client ID to check whether any unpaid dividends or shares have been transferred to the IEPF.

Step 2: Send Physical Documents to ITC’s Registrar

ITC’s Registrar & Share Transfer Agent (RTA) is:

Virginia House,

37 Jawaharlal Nehru Road,

Kolkata, West Bengal, 700071.

Email: isc@itc.in
Helpline: 033-22886426 / 0034

Follow these steps:

Contact the RTA or ITC’s Nodal Officer to confirm your eligibility to claim transferred shares or dividends.
Request an Entitlement Letter, confirming:

Number of shares transferred to IEPF
Amount of unclaimed dividend
Confirmation that you are the rightful shareholder

Send your request along with:

Copy of PAN and Aadhaar
Details of your shareholding (Folio or Demat details)
Old dividend warrants or proofs (if available)

Step 3: Prepare IEPF Form-5 on MCA Website

Visit MCA (Ministry of Corporate Affairs) → IEPF Services.

Fill Form IEPF-5 with details including:

Documents Required:

Personal Information (PAN, Aadhaar, Address, Email, Mobile)
Company Name: ITC Limited
Claim Details: No. of shares / dividend amount
Demat Information: DP ID & Client ID

Submit the form online and then download:

Filled IEPF Form-5
Acknowledgement (SRN)

Keep these for submission to the company.

Step 4: Prepare Document Set for Submission to ITC Limited

Once you have completed and submitted IEPF Form-5 online, print a copy of the form along with the acknowledgement. Attach all required supporting documents such as identity proof, address proof, cancelled cheque, share certificates (if physical), and indemnity bond. These documents should be properly self-attested and compiled in an organised manner before sending the complete set as a hard copy to the Nodal Officer of ITC Limited for verification and further processing.

Required Documents:

Signed printout of IEPF-5 & acknowledgement
Indemnity Bond (on stamp paper as per IEPF rules)
Advance Stamped Receipt (signed by claimant & witnesses)
Entitlement Letter (from ITC / RTA)
Self-attested copies of:

PAN & Aadhaar
Cancelled Cheque
Client Master List (CML) from DP

Original Share Certificates (if shares were physical)

Additional Documents for Legal Heirs:

Death Certificate of original shareholder
Legal Heir Certificate / Succession Certificate / Will
NOCs from all other heirs (if applicable)
ID and address proof of all heirs

Step 5: Send Documents to ITC Nodal Officer

Send the complete set by Speed Post or Courier to:

Nodal Officer – IEPF
Mr. R. K. Singhi,

(Executive Vice President and Company Secretary)

Investor Service Centre, ITC Limited,

37 Jawaharlal Nehru Road,

Kolkata 700 071 – India

Email: investor@itc.in

Step 6: Verification by ITC Limited

After receiving the complete document set, ITC Limited carefully examines all submitted papers to confirm the authenticity of the claim and the identity of the claimant. The company cross-checks details with its records, including shareholding history and transfer status to the IEPF. Once satisfied, ITC prepares a formal Verification Report and forwards it to the IEPF Authority, usually within 30 days. The refund or transfer process by the IEPF Authority begins only after this verification report is approved.

Step 7: Approval by IEPF Authority

The IEPF Authority examines the verification report and documents. If everything is satisfactory:

Shares are credited to your Demat Account
Unclaimed dividends (if any) are transferred to your bank account

The processing time may vary depending on the completeness of documents.

Final Word

Recovering unclaimed shares or dividends of ITC Limited from the IEPF is an important process that allows shareholders and their legal heirs to regain ownership of their rightful financial assets. While the procedure may appear complex at first, it is designed to ensure transparency, prevent fraud, and protect genuine investors. By carefully following each step from verifying unclaimed holdings and obtaining the entitlement letter to filing Form IEPF-5 and submitting a complete and accurate set of documents the process becomes systematic and achievable.

ITC Limited, together with the IEPF Authority, provides a structured and investor-friendly framework to facilitate smooth recovery. Timely communication with the Registrar and Nodal Officer, along with precise documentation, greatly reduces the chances of delay or rejection. Shareholders are encouraged to keep their contact and Demat details updated and regularly monitor their investments to avoid future transfers to IEPF. With patience, proper guidance, and attention to detail, investors can successfully reclaim their unclaimed dividends and shares and safeguard their long-term financial interests.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. What is IEPF?

Ans. IEPF stands for Investor Education and Protection Fund, created by the Government of India to safeguard investor interests. It holds shares, dividends, and other financial benefits that remain unclaimed for a long period. The fund ensures that such amounts are preserved safely and can be claimed by the rightful owners through a formal recovery process.

Q2. Why were my ITC shares/dividends transferred to the IEPF?

Ans. If dividends remain unpaid or unclaimed for seven consecutive years, ITC is legally required to transfer both the unpaid dividends and the related shares to the IEPF. This transfer is done to prevent misuse and ensure transparency. Once transferred, shareholders must apply through IEPF to recover their assets.

Q3. How do I check if my ITC shares are in the IEPF?

Ans. You can check the status on ITC Limited’s website by visiting the Investor Relations section. Alternatively, you can search on the official IEPF portal by entering your Folio Number or Demat details. This helps confirm whether your shares or dividends have been transferred.

Q4. Is filing IEPF-5 mandatory?

Ans. Yes, filing Form IEPF-5 is compulsory for claiming shares or dividends from the IEPF. This form officially initiates your recovery request with the IEPF Authority. Without submitting this form, your claim cannot be processed further.

Q5. Can legal heirs claim shares from the IEPF?

Ans. Yes, legal heirs or nominees are eligible to claim shares from the IEPF. They must submit supporting documents such as a death certificate, succession certificate, and NOCs from other heirs. These documents help establish their legal right over the shares.

Q6. How long does it take to get ITC shares back from the IEPF?

Ans. ITC usually verifies the claim within 30 days after receiving the complete set of documents. After verification, the application is forwarded to the IEPF Authority for final approval. The overall process can take several weeks or even months depending on the case.

Q7. Do I need to submit original documents?

Ans. In most cases, original share certificates must be submitted if the shares were held in physical form. Self-attested copies of identity and address proof are also required. For legal heir claims, original legal documents may be requested for verification.

Q8. What if my documents are incomplete?

Ans. If the submitted documents are incomplete or incorrect, the claim process may be delayed or rejected. The company may ask for resubmission or clarification of documents. Therefore, it is important to ensure that all papers are clear and properly signed.

Q9. Will recovered shares be sent in physical form?

Ans. No, recovered shares are not issued in physical form under current regulations. All shares reclaimed from the IEPF are credited directly to the claimant’s Demat account. This ensures safer holding and easier future transactions.

Q10. Whom should I contact for assistance?

Ans. You can contact ITC’s Registrar and Transfer Agent, for assistance regarding the claim process. You may also reach ITC’s Nodal Officer for official guidance and updates. Both contacts can help resolve procedural queries and document-related issues.