Applying for an IPO can be an exciting step for retail investors hoping to get early access to a company going public. However, after submitting an application and making the payment, the next critical step is to check the IPO allotment status. This process lets applicants know whether they have received any shares and how many. Because IPOs are often oversubscribed, especially in emerging markets, not every applicant receives shares. Knowing how to check IPO allotment status accurately and on time can help investors plan their next move, whether that involves holding, buying more in the secondary market, or adjusting their investment strategy.
What Is IPO Allotment?
Definition and Purpose
IPO allotment is the process of distributing shares of a company among investors who have applied during the IPO subscription window. After the IPO subscription period ends, the registrar of the issue allots the shares based on various investor categories and demand levels. The allotment ensures fair and transparent distribution, especially when there is an oversubscription.
Categories of Investors
The allotment process generally distinguishes among these categories:
- Retail Individual Investors (RII)
- Qualified Institutional Buyers (QIB)
- Non-Institutional Investors (NII)
- Anchor Investors (if applicable)
Retail investors often receive allotments through a lottery system if the IPO is oversubscribed, making it important to check the allotment result.
Timeline for IPO Allotment
When to Expect Allotment Results
The IPO allotment status is typically available three to five working days after the issue closes. This timeline may vary depending on the registrar’s processing speed and the size of the IPO. On the date of allotment, applicants can check their status using various methods discussed below.
Information Required to Check IPO Allotment
Key Details to Keep Ready
To check your IPO allotment status, you will need one or more of the following:
- PAN (Permanent Account Number)
- DP Client ID (for Demat accounts)
- Application Number
- Bank Account Number (in some cases)
These details are usually available on your IPO application or trading account dashboard.
Methods to Check IPO Allotment Status
1. Through the Registrar’s Website
The registrar of the IPO, often a third-party agency assigned by the company going public, provides a direct way to check allotment. Here’s how to do it:
- Visit the official website of the registrar (e.g., Link Intime, KFin Technologies)
- Click on the IPO Allotment or Public Issues section
- Select the relevant IPO from the dropdown menu
- Enter your PAN, DP ID, or application number
- Submit to view the status
The registrar updates the allotment status as soon as the process is finalized, and this is usually the most reliable source.
2. Using Your Broker’s Platform
Most stockbrokers and trading platforms integrate IPO allotment status checks within their applications. Steps generally include:
- Log in to your broker account (Zerodha, Upstox, Angel One, etc.)
- Navigate to the IPO or Orders section
- Click on the specific IPO to see allotment details
This method is simple if you applied for the IPO through the same broker.
3. Through Stock Exchange Websites
Major stock exchanges such as NSE and BSE also provide IPO allotment status checking options. To use this method:
- Visit the IPO status page of the exchange
- Select the IPO and enter your PAN or application number
- Complete any required CAPTCHA or verification
- Click submit to view the result
This method is useful for confirming allotment, especially if you didn’t use a broker directly.
4. Through Bank SMS or Email Notification
If your application was successful or blocked via ASBA (Application Supported by Blocked Amount), your bank may notify you via SMS or email about the status:
- If shares are allotted, the message will confirm the deduction and number of shares received
- If not allotted, the message may indicate that the blocked amount has been released
Always verify such messages with the registrar or trading platform to be certain.
Understanding the Allotment Status Result
Possible Outcomes
After checking your IPO allotment status, the result will usually fall into one of these categories:
- Allotted Fully: You receive all the shares you applied for
- Partially Allotted: You receive fewer shares than requested
- Not Allotted: No shares are allotted, and your application money is refunded
If you received shares, they will typically be credited to your Demat account one or two days before the stock lists on the exchange.
Refund Process
If you didn’t receive any allotment, your money will be unblocked or refunded, depending on your payment method. In ASBA, the amount is simply unblocked in your bank account without any manual refund action needed.
Common Issues When Checking Allotment
Delayed Updates
Sometimes, the registrar’s or exchange’s website may delay updating the allotment status due to high traffic or processing time. In such cases, try again later or use alternative methods like your broker’s app.
Incorrect Information
Entering the wrong PAN, application number, or DP ID can result in an error or ‘no record found’ message. Always double-check the information you provide.
Mismatch in Broker and Application Details
If you applied using a different name or PAN than what’s linked to your broker, status updates may not appear in your broker’s portal. Use the registrar’s website for accurate results in such cases.
Tips for a Smooth IPO Allotment Experience
- Apply using ASBA-enabled bank accounts for easier fund blocking and release
- Submit multiple applications only within the rules duplicate PANs may lead to disqualification
- Keep your Demat and PAN details updated and correct
- Track the IPO timeline so you know exactly when to check allotment status
Knowing how to check IPO allotment status is a vital part of participating in the stock market. It provides clarity on whether your investment was successful and allows you to prepare for the next steps. Whether you’re a first-time investor or a seasoned market participant, using the registrar’s website, your broker’s platform, or the stock exchange site can help you check allotment quickly and accurately. Always keep your PAN, DP ID, and application number handy, and stay informed about the IPO timelines. By understanding the process and staying updated, you can make smarter, more confident investment decisions in the IPO space.