How to Recover Lost CAC Documents

By Alexander Odidi, Esq. A

        Image Credit: Yulia Kavenishikova


You remember contacting an accredited agent to handle your business registration and now, years later, you cannot find your company's CAC documents. This can feel stressful, especially if you need them urgently for a bank transaction, a contract or a licence renewal. 

The good news? Losing such documents isn't the end of the world. The Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) keeps official records of every registered company, and there are clear steps you can follow to recover your lost documents. 

Common CAC Documents People Lose

  • Certificate of Incorporation 

  • Memorandum and Articles of Association (MEMART) 

  • CAC status report or company search report 

  • Share certificates

  • Other statutory forms

Whatever the document is lost, the CAC usually holds a digital record to help you recover vital details of your business. 

Steps to Recover Lost CAC Documents 

  1. Confirm Your Business/Company Details 

Sometimes, people forget every single detail linked to their business. However, part of the recovery process is gathering information about your business. You need any of the following: 

  • Registered name of the company 

  • RC or BN number (if you can recall it) 

  • The names of directors or shareholders at registration

  • The approximate date the company was registered

Any or all of this information will help CAC or an accredited agent locate your file quickly.

  1. Search the CAC Public Database

The CAC online portal has a public search feature you can use to search for basic company information using the company name or RC number. This can help confirm whether your company still exists on the register. Also, it can provide the correct RC number if you have forgotten it.

  1. Apply for a Certified True Copy (CTC)

If your Certificate of Incorporation or other statutory documents are lost, use these steps to apply for a Certified True Copy through the CAC: 

  • Filing an application for a CTC, either directly through the CAC portal or through an accredited CAC agent.

  • Provide your RC number and company details.

  • Paying the applicable fee for the certified copy.

  • Submitting an affidavit of loss, in some cases, especially where the original certificate was lost or destroyed.

  • Collecting or downloading the certified document once processed.

A Certified True Copy of your documents carries the same legal weight as the original for most official purposes.

  1. Obtain a Status Report If Needed

For situations like bank account opening, due diligence or loan applications, a CAC status report is often more useful than the original certificate. This report confirms the company's current status, registered address, directors and share structure. It can usually be requested through an accredited agent.

  1. Use an Accredited CAC Agent Where Necessary

When it comes to document recovery, doing it yourself can present many challenges. If the process involves affidavits or older paper-based records, they are easier to handle through an accredited CAC agent or company secretary. They are familiar with the process and can help avoid unnecessary delays.

How Long Does It Take to Recover Lost CAC Documents?

Straightforward requests, such as an online CTC for a company registered digitally, can often be processed within a few working days. Older companies with paper records may take longer, since some files require manual retrieval.

Tips to Avoid Losing CAC Documents 

  • Keep digital scans of all CAC documents in a secure cloud folder or your primary email address.

  • Store original certificates in a fireproof safe or with your company secretary.

  • Register your CAC portal account so you always have online access to your company's records.

Final Words

Losing CAC documents may be common but it is solvable. With your RC number and a few basic details, you can recover certified copies of your company's records. Taking steps to safely store digital copies going forward will save you time if this ever happens again.

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. How do I get a copy of my lost CAC certificate?

You can apply for a Certified True Copy (CTC) of your Certificate of Incorporation through the CAC portal or an accredited CAC agent, using your company's RC number.

  1. Do I need an affidavit to recover a lost CAC document?

In many cases, yes. An affidavit of loss is commonly required to confirm the original document was genuinely lost before a certified replacement is issued.

  1. How can I find my company's RC number if I've lost it?

You can search for your company by name on the CAC public search portal, which usually displays the RC number along with basic company details.

  1. How much does it cost to recover a lost CAC certificate?

Fees depend on the type of document and processing method. It is best to check the current CAC fee schedule or confirm with an accredited agent before applying.




Disclaimer: This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. LegalBizPro is not a part of or affiliated to the Corporate Affairs Commission. 

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