Lost Share Certificate? What You Can Do

Finding that a share certificate or holding statement is missing can feel serious, but the missing paper does not necessarily mean the investment has disappeared. Australian listed share ownership is generally recorded electronically on a register or subregister.

A certificate may not be the ownership record

For many Australian listed securities, the official register or CHESS subregister is more important than the paper document. The certificate or statement is evidence and useful for identifying the holding, but a registry or broker may still be able to locate the position after verifying you.

Gather identifying information

Write down the company name, approximate purchase date, previous addresses, former names, joint-holder details and any partial reference numbers. Old dividend deposits and tax records can also help identify the registry.

Contact the correct organisation

For shares on a broker account (ie Commsec, NabTrade etc), contact the broker or successor broker. For issuer-sponsored holdings (ie Computershare, MUFG, Boardroom etc), contact the current share registry. Ask specifically what identity and ownership documents are required for a replacement statement or access.

Be careful with sensitive information

Never publish a full HIN or SRN in a social media post or public forum. Confirm that you are dealing with the genuine broker, registry or company before sending identity documents.

After the holding is recovered

Update the address, email, bank details and communication preferences. You can then decide whether to retain, consolidate, sell, transfer or donate the shares.

Ready to take the next step?

Recovering an unwanted holding is only the first step. Donate Your Shares Australia can help eligible shareholders explore a charitable transfer.

General Information Disclaimer

This article contains general information only and does not constitute financial, legal or tax advice. Requirements vary between holdings, brokers, registries and personal circumstances. Consider obtaining advice from an appropriately qualified professional.