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How to file a complaint on SEBI SCORES against a broker or mutual fund

You cannot complain directly to SEBI when you have a problem with a broker or mutual fund. You must write to the company first. If they reject your claim or ignore you for 21 days, you can learn how to file a complaint on SEBI SCORES. The process is free and requires your PAN.

By Qrates research desk · 2026-10-27

You must first complain directly to your broker or mutual fund in writing. If they reject your complaint or fail to reply within 21 days, you can escalate the matter to the regulator. You do this by completing your SCORES portal registration with your PAN and submitting your grievance.

Quick answer: How to file a complaint on SEBI SCORES

You cannot go straight to the regulator when you have a problem. You must follow a strict order to get your investor grievance resolved.

  1. Complain to the company first: Write an email or raise a support ticket with your broker or mutual fund.
  2. Wait for a response: The company has 21 days to reply and fix the issue (sebi.gov.in).
  3. Escalate to SEBI: If the company ignores you or rejects your claim, go to the SCORES 2.0 portal. You will need to register with your PAN and submit your grievance using the ticket number from your first complaint.

What you need before you start

You need specific details and files ready before you open the portal. SEBI will ask for proof of your identity and your earlier attempts to fix the problem.

  • Proof of first contact: An email screenshot or a support ticket number from the company.
  • Identity details: Your Permanent Account Number (PAN) card details are mandatory (sebi.gov.in).
  • Account details: Your demat account number for a stock broker fraud or frozen account, or your folio number for a mutual fund.
  • Supporting documents: Files that prove your claim, such as bank statements or contract notes. The portal accepts JPG, JPEG, PDF, audio, and video files.

Steps to register and file your complaint on SCORES 2.0

The SEBI complaints redress system is entirely online. You can use a computer or download and learn how to use SEBI SCORES app on your phone. Before you proceed, you may also want to check if a stock broker is SEBI registered and spot fake trading apps to ensure your service provider is legitimate.

Step 1: Register on the SCORES portal

Visit the official SCORES website to create your account. You must enter your PAN, mobile number, and email address. The system will send a One Time Password (OTP) to verify your contact details.

Step 2: Fill in the complaint details

Log in and select the correct category for the company you are complaining about. This could be a depository participant, a listed company grievance, or a SEBI registered investment advisor complaint. Type a clear description of the issue, such as an unauthorized trading complaint or a delayed payout. If you are dealing with other financial institutions, you might also need to complain to the RBI Ombudsman against a bank or loan app if the issue involves banking or lending services.

Step 3: Upload documents and submit

Attach your supporting files to back up your written description. Click submit to finish the process. The portal will generate a unique registration number for your case.

How long it takes and what it costs

Filing a complaint on the SEBI complaints redress system is completely free (sebi.gov.in). You do not need to pay any fees to register or upload documents. If you have faced issues with other financial products, you might also find it useful to complain to IRDAI Bima Bharosa about a rejected claim or report cyber fraud on 1930 and cybercrime.gov.in if you have been a victim of online scams.

Once your complaint is routed through SCORES, the company has 21 days to provide a response (sebi.gov.in). You can check your SEBI scores complaint status at any time on the portal using your registration number and password.

If it does not work: Escalating to SMART ODR

Sometimes a company will reply to a SCORES complaint but still refuse to fix the problem. You have 15 days from the date of the company's reply to request a review on the SCORES portal (sebi.gov.in).

If the review does not solve the problem, your next step is the SEBI Online Dispute Resolution (ODR) portal. The ODR portal SEBI runs is a separate system for formal dispute resolution. It connects you with independent conciliators and arbitrators to settle the matter (sebi.gov.in).

What complaints SCORES will not accept

SEBI only handles specific types of financial grievances. The portal will automatically reject your complaint if it falls outside the regulator's rules.

  • Unregulated entities: SEBI will reject complaints against unlisted companies or entities they do not regulate (sebi.gov.in).
  • Pending legal cases: You cannot use SCORES for matters that are already pending in a court or tribunal (sebi.gov.in).
  • Old complaints: You must file your complaint within one year of the issue date (sebi.gov.in).

FAQs

How long does SEBI take to resolve a complaint on SCORES?

Once you file a complaint on SCORES, the portal routes it to the company. The company then has 21 days to provide a resolution (sebi.gov.in). If you are unhappy with the reply, you have 15 days to request a review.

Can I file an anonymous complaint on SEBI SCORES?

No, the SEBI SCORES portal does not accept anonymous complaints (sebi.gov.in). You must provide your PAN during registration so SEBI can verify your identity.

What is the time limit to file a complaint on SCORES?

You must file your complaint within one year of the date the issue occurred (sebi.gov.in). Complaints filed after this one-year limit will be rejected by the system.

What happens after filing a complaint on SEBI SCORES?

The company will receive your complaint and must reply within 21 days. You can track your case status on the portal at any time. If you need help with registration, you can call the SEBI toll free helpline number at 1800 266 7575 or 1800 22 7575 (sebi.gov.in).

The short version

  • You must complain to your broker or mutual fund in writing and wait 21 days before approaching SEBI.
  • Registration on the SCORES 2.0 portal requires your PAN, email address, and mobile number.
  • You must file your complaint within one year of the issue date.
  • Filing a complaint is completely free of charge.
  • If you are unhappy with the company's reply on SCORES, you have 15 days to request a review.

Sources

Disclaimer

Qrates is an information directory. It takes no commission from any company listed and does not recommend products. Figures are taken from the sources named and dated, and they change; check the company's own page before you decide. This is not investment, credit, insurance or tax advice for your situation. For a specific dispute, a lawyer or the regulator's ombudsman can advise you.

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