Finding a possible lost shareholding is only the first step. The next question is whether you can establish that the investment actually belongs to you.

For Australians searching for lost shares or unclaimed investments, old financial records can become extremely valuable.

Previous addresses, shareholding statements, dividend records, employment documents and other historical information may help connect an old investment with its rightful owner.

What Should You Look For?

When investigating lost shares in Australia, check for:

• Previous residential addresses
• Old shareholding statements
• Dividend statements
• Previous employers
• Tax records
• Shareholder numbers
• Previous names
• Company correspondence

ASIC explains that claimants may need documentation showing an address associated with the unclaimed-money record. If the required information doesn't match the relevant company or shareholding details, the claim can be rejected.

Start With the Official Search

The Australian Government provides a free unclaimed-money search. ASIC holds records for certain unclaimed shares and investments, and an Original Transaction Number (OTN) is provided for each record when you find one.

This makes the official search a sensible starting point before considering professional assistance.

When Tracing Becomes Complicated

Some investments are decades old or have been affected by company mergers, de-mergers, employee share schemes or changes in personal circumstances.