Accounting for Share Capital Class 12: Notes, Journal Entries and Solved Questions
Updated 14 October 2026 · Fact-checked
Accounting for Share Capital is the first company-accounts chapter in CBSE Class 12 Accountancy Part A. It covers company features, kinds of share capital, equity and preference shares, issue at par and premium, over- and under-subscription, calls in arrears and advance, shares to vendors, forfeiture and reissue, and balance sheet disclosure.
What Accounting for Share Capital is about
A company raises its capital by issuing shares. This chapter is about recording that process: money called on application, allotment and calls, what happens when the public applies for more or fewer shares than offered, what happens when a shareholder does not pay (calls in arrears, then forfeiture), and how forfeited shares are reissued.
You also learn the vocabulary of capital (authorised, issued, subscribed, called-up and paid-up), the difference between equity and preference shares, how a securities premium is recorded and used, how shares are issued to a vendor for assets instead of cash, and the concepts of private placement, ESOP and sweat equity. Finally, share capital is shown in the balance sheet as per Schedule III through a note.
Syllabus limits for 2026-27: calls in arrears and calls in advance are recorded without interest; private placement, ESOP and sweat equity are concepts only. The Companies Act 2013 does not allow a company to issue shares at a discount (except sweat equity), but forfeited shares may be reissued at a discount up to the amount forfeited.
Weightage: This chapter is part of Part A: Accounting for Companies, which carries 24 of the 80 theory marks together with Issue and Redemption of Debentures.Source: CBSE Accountancy (055) syllabus 2026-27, Part A: Accounting for Companies
In real board papers: asked in 2 of the 2 board papers we hold (2026 to 2026), on average 17 marks per paper. See the questions
Key concepts
- Company: features and kinds
- NCERT section 1.1, 1.2
A company is an artificial person created by law, with a separate legal entity from its members, perpetual succession, a common seal (or authorised signatures), limited liability of members, transferable shares (in a public company) and management separate from ownership.
Kinds by liability: companies limited by shares, limited by guarantee, and unlimited companies. By control: holding and subsidiary companies. By ownership and access to capital: private company (restricts transfer of shares, cannot invite the public), public company, and one person company. Companies may also be listed or unlisted, and a government company is one where the government holds at least 51% of paid-up capital.
Worked example
Suppose a shareholder of a company limited by shares has fully paid for her shares and the company later fails with large debts. Is she liable to pay the creditors? [1 mark]
Try it first, then show the solutionSolution
- Liability of members is limited to the unpaid amount on their shares.
- Her shares are fully paid, so nothing is unpaid.
Answer: No. Her liability is limited to the unpaid amount on her shares, which is nil.
- Categories of share capital and Schedule III disclosure
- NCERT section 1.3, 1.3.1
- Authorised (registered or nominal) capital: the maximum capital the company may issue, stated in its memorandum.
- Issued capital: the part offered to the public (and others) for subscription.
- Subscribed capital: the part actually taken up. It is shown as "subscribed and fully paid" and "subscribed but not fully paid".
- Called-up capital: the part of the face value the company has asked for so far; uncalled capital is the rest.
- Paid-up capital: called-up capital actually received (called-up − calls in arrears).
- Reserve capital: uncalled capital that by special resolution can be called only on winding up.
In the balance sheet, "Share Capital" appears under Shareholders' Funds, with a note showing authorised, issued and subscribed capital, calls in arrears deducted, and the balance of Share Forfeiture Account added.
Worked example
Suppose a company is authorised to issue 2,00,000 equity shares of ₹10 each. It issues 1,00,000 shares, of which 90,000 are subscribed. ₹8 per share has been called, and calls of ₹1 per share on 2,000 shares are unpaid. Show the Share Capital note. [3 marks]
Try it first, then show the solutionSolution
- Note: Share Capital
Particulars ₹ Authorised capital: 2,00,000 equity shares of ₹10 each 20,00,000 Issued capital: 1,00,000 equity shares of ₹10 each 10,00,000 Subscribed capital: subscribed but not fully paid: 90,000 equity shares of ₹10 each, ₹8 called up 7,20,000 Less: Calls in arrears (2,000 shares @ ₹1) 2,000 Total subscribed capital 7,18,000
Answer: Subscribed but not fully paid ₹7,20,000 less calls in arrears ₹2,000 = ₹7,18,000.
- Note: Share Capital
- Equity and preference shares
- NCERT section 1.4
Preference shares carry two preferential rights: to receive a fixed rate of dividend before equity shareholders, and to repayment of capital before equity shareholders on winding up. They may be cumulative or non-cumulative, participating or non-participating, convertible or non-convertible, and redeemable (they must be redeemed within 20 years under the Companies Act 2013).
Equity shares are all shares that are not preference shares. Equity shareholders get dividends only after preference dividend, at a rate that varies with profit; they get capital back last on winding up; but they control the company through voting rights. They bear the most risk and can earn the most.
Worked example
Suppose a company earns a profit of ₹3,00,000 that it decides to distribute. It has 10,000 8% preference shares of ₹100 each and 1,00,000 equity shares of ₹10 each. What dividend per equity share can it pay? [3 marks]
Try it first, then show the solutionSolution
- Preference dividend first: 8% of ₹10,00,000 = ₹80,000.
- Left for equity: 3,00,000 − 80,000 = ₹2,20,000.
- Per equity share: 2,20,000 ÷ 1,00,000 = ₹2.20.
Answer: ₹2.20 per equity share (22%), after ₹80,000 to preference shareholders.
- Issue of shares: application, allotment, calls; arrears and advance
- NCERT section 1.5, 1.6, 1.6.1, 1.6.2
Shares are paid in instalments. For each instalment: when due, debit the instalment account (Application, Allotment, Call) and credit Share Capital (and Securities Premium for the premium part); when received, debit Bank and credit the instalment account. Application money is received first and transferred to capital on allotment. Allotment requires the minimum subscription, at least 90% of the issue; otherwise application money is refunded.
Calls in arrears: amount called but unpaid; can be left as a debit balance in the instalment account or transferred to a Calls in Arrears A/c; shown as a deduction from subscribed capital. Calls in advance: amount received before it is called; credited to Calls in Advance A/c, shown under other current liabilities until adjusted when the call is made. (Interest on these is not in the syllabus.)
Worked example
Suppose a company calls ₹3 per share on first call on 40,000 shares. One shareholder with 500 shares does not pay, and another with 1,000 shares also pays the final call of ₹2 in advance. Pass the entries for the first call. [3 marks]
Try it first, then show the solutionSolution
Particulars Dr (₹) Cr (₹) Equity Share First Call A/c ... Dr 1,20,000 To Equity Share Capital A/c 1,20,000 (First call due on 40,000 shares @ ₹3) Bank A/c ... Dr 1,20,500 Calls in Arrears A/c ... Dr 1,500 To Equity Share First Call A/c 1,20,000 To Calls in Advance A/c 2,000 (Call received except on 500 shares; final call received in advance on 1,000 shares)
Answer: Bank ₹1,20,500 = 1,20,000 − 1,500 + 2,000; calls in arrears ₹1,500; calls in advance ₹2,000.
- Over-subscription and under-subscription
- NCERT section 1.6.3, 1.6.4
Under-subscription: fewer shares applied for than offered. Shares are allotted to all applicants (if minimum subscription is met) and entries are based on shares actually allotted.
Over-subscription: more applications than shares offered. The directors can (a) reject some applications and refund their money, (b) allot pro rata (proportionately) and adjust the excess application money towards allotment (and calls, if allowed), refunding any balance, or (c) do both. With pro-rata allotment, find each applicant's excess money: (shares applied − shares allotted) × application money per share; subtract it from allotment due.
Worked example
Suppose 60,000 shares are applied for by applicants who are allotted 50,000 shares pro rata, with application money ₹3 per share. How much excess application money is adjusted towards allotment? [1 mark]
Try it first, then show the solutionSolution
- Excess shares applied = 60,000 − 50,000 = 10,000.
- Excess money = 10,000 × ₹3 = ₹30,000.
Answer: ₹30,000 is adjusted towards allotment.
- Securities premium and shares for consideration other than cash
- NCERT section 1.6.5, 1.6.7
Shares issued above face value carry a securities premium, usually collected with allotment and credited to Securities Premium A/c when it falls due. Under Section 52 of the Companies Act 2013 it can be used only to issue fully paid bonus shares, write off preliminary expenses, write off expenses, commission or discount on any issue of shares or debentures, pay premium on redemption of preference shares or debentures, and buy back shares. It is shown under Reserves and Surplus.
Shares to a vendor: when a company buys assets and pays by issuing shares: Sundry Assets A/c Dr, To Vendor A/c; then Vendor A/c Dr, To Share Capital A/c (and Securities Premium A/c). Number of shares = amount payable ÷ issue price.
Worked example
Suppose Neel Ltd buys machinery of ₹4,40,000 from Vardan Traders and pays by issuing equity shares of ₹100 each at a premium of 10%. Pass the entries. [3 marks]
Try it first, then show the solutionSolution
- Issue price ₹110; number of shares = 4,40,000 ÷ 110 = 4,000.
Particulars Dr (₹) Cr (₹) Machinery A/c ... Dr 4,40,000 To Vardan Traders 4,40,000 (Machinery purchased) Vardan Traders ... Dr 4,40,000 To Equity Share Capital A/c 4,00,000 To Securities Premium A/c 40,000 (4,000 shares of ₹100 issued at ₹110 to the vendor)
Answer: 4,000 shares: capital ₹4,00,000 and premium ₹40,000.
- Forfeiture of shares
- NCERT section 1.7
If a shareholder fails to pay an instalment, the directors may forfeit his shares as per the articles. The member loses his shares and the money already paid. Entry: debit Share Capital with the amount called up on those shares; debit Securities Premium only if the premium was due but not received; credit the unpaid instalments (or Calls in Arrears); credit Share Forfeiture A/c with the amount already received towards capital.
If the premium on those shares had already been received, it stays in Securities Premium and is not debited.
Worked example
Suppose a holder of 200 shares of ₹10 each issued at ₹12 (premium payable with allotment) paid application ₹3 and allotment ₹5 (including premium) but not the first and final call of ₹4. The shares are forfeited and reissued at ₹7 per share fully paid. Pass the entries. [4 marks]
Try it first, then show the solutionSolution
- Called up ₹10 × 200 = ₹2,000; unpaid call ₹800; received towards capital ₹6 × 200 = ₹1,200. Premium was received, so it is not debited.
Particulars Dr (₹) Cr (₹) Equity Share Capital A/c ... Dr 2,000 To Equity Share First and Final Call A/c 800 To Share Forfeiture A/c 1,200 (200 shares forfeited for non-payment of call) Bank A/c ... Dr 1,400 Share Forfeiture A/c ... Dr 600 To Equity Share Capital A/c 2,000 (200 shares reissued @ ₹7 fully paid) Share Forfeiture A/c ... Dr 600 To Capital Reserve A/c 600 (Gain on reissue transferred)
Answer: Forfeiture ₹1,200; discount on reissue ₹600; capital reserve ₹600.
- Reissue of forfeited shares and capital reserve
- NCERT section 1.7.1
Forfeited shares can be reissued at par, at a premium or at a discount, but the discount cannot exceed the amount forfeited on those shares. Entry: Bank A/c Dr (amount received), Share Forfeiture A/c Dr (discount), To Share Capital A/c (amount credited as paid up). If reissued above face value, credit the excess to Securities Premium.
After reissue, the remaining forfeited amount on the shares reissued is a capital profit: Share Forfeiture A/c Dr, To Capital Reserve A/c. Forfeited amount on shares not yet reissued stays in Share Forfeiture A/c and is added to share capital in the note.
When only some forfeited shares are reissued, find the forfeited amount per share first.
Worked example
Suppose 600 shares on which ₹2,160 had been forfeited are held by a company, and 400 of them are reissued at ₹8 per share fully paid (face value ₹10). Calculate the capital reserve. [3 marks]
Try it first, then show the solutionSolution
- Forfeited per share = 2,160 ÷ 600 = ₹3.60; on 400 shares = ₹1,440.
- Discount allowed = 400 × ₹2 = ₹800.
- Capital reserve = 1,440 − 800 = ₹640; ₹720 stays in Share Forfeiture A/c for the 200 shares not reissued.
Answer: Capital reserve ₹640.
- Private placement, ESOP and sweat equity (concepts)
- NCERT section 1.6 (boxes on private placement and ESOP)
- Private placement (Section 42, Companies Act 2013): an offer of securities to a select group of persons through a private placement offer letter, not to the public at large.
- Employee Stock Option Plan (ESOP): an option given to employees and employee directors to buy the company's shares at a future date at a price lower than the market or fair value. It is an option, so an employee may or may not use it.
- Sweat equity shares: shares issued to employees or directors at a discount or for consideration other than cash, for providing know-how, intellectual property or value additions. Sweat equity is the one case where shares may be issued at a discount.
Worked example
Suppose a software start-up offers its senior engineers the right to buy its shares after three years at ₹50 each, while the shares now trade at ₹80. What is this called, and must the engineers buy? [1 mark]
Try it first, then show the solutionSolution
- Shares offered to employees at a price below market value at a future date: an ESOP.
- It is an option, not an obligation.
Answer: An Employee Stock Option Plan; the engineers may choose whether to exercise it.
Accounting for Share Capital in real life
Each concept, met in an everyday situation. Read the situation, answer the question in your own words, then compare with the model answer. The one-line hook is what to remember.
Instalments and calls
Suppose a new electric-scooter company sells shares in instalments, like paying for a phone in parts, and one investor stops paying after the first instalment.
What can the company do, and what happens to money already paid?
Try it first, then show the solutionSolution
- The unpaid call is a call in arrears.
- The directors can forfeit the shares; the money already paid is credited to Share Forfeiture A/c and the investor loses it.
Answer: Forfeit the shares; the investor loses the amount already paid.
Memory hook: Miss your instalment, lose your shares and your deposit.
Securities premium
Suppose a well-known biscuit company issues shares of face value ₹10 at ₹60 because investors value its brand.
Where does the ₹50 extra go, and can it be paid out as dividend?
Try it first, then show the solutionSolution
- The ₹50 per share is credited to Securities Premium A/c.
- Section 52 allows only specified uses such as bonus shares; dividend is not one.
Answer: Securities Premium (Reserves and Surplus); it cannot be distributed as dividend.
Memory hook: Premium is capital in disguise: it cannot be eaten as dividend.
Pro-rata allotment
Suppose a popular IPO receives applications for twice the shares offered, and every applicant gets half of what was applied for.
What happens to the extra application money?
Try it first, then show the solutionSolution
- Each applicant's excess application money is the money paid on shares not allotted.
- It is adjusted towards the allotment amount due (and any surplus refunded).
Answer: It is adjusted towards allotment, reducing what each allottee must pay.
Memory hook: Paid for more, got less: the extra waits for allotment.
Topics in this chapter
Accounting for Share Capital: key facts
- Excess application money (pro rata)
- (Shares applied − shares allotted) × application money per share
- Amount due on allotment from a pro-rata allottee
- Shares allotted × allotment money − excess application money
- Forfeiture entry
- Dr Share Capital (called up) + Dr Securities Premium (if not received) = Cr unpaid instalments + Cr Share Forfeiture (received towards capital)
- Maximum discount on reissue
- Amount forfeited on the shares reissued
- Capital reserve on reissue
- Forfeited amount on shares reissued − discount on reissue
- Shares to a vendor
- Number of shares = purchase consideration ÷ issue price
- Paid-up capital
- Called-up capital − calls in arrears
- Minimum subscription
- At least 90% of the issue size
How the board asks Accounting for Share Capital
The question patterns to expect, and the method that works for each.
| Question type | How it is asked | Method |
|---|---|---|
| Concepts and kinds of capital | 1-mark MCQs on categories of capital, minimum subscription, uses of securities premium, ESOP and sweat equity. | Learn each term with one example figure. |
| Pro-rata calculations | 1- to 3-mark questions on excess application money and the amount due from one allottee. | Shares applied versus allotted for that applicant; excess × application rate. |
| Forfeiture and reissue | 3- or 4-mark entries, including capital reserve on partial reissue and shares issued at a premium. | Called up, received, unpaid; premium only if unpaid; capital reserve on reissued shares only. |
| Full share issue question | 6-mark journal entries from application to reissue with over-subscription. | One entry per stage; keep a side calculation for the defaulter. |
| Balance sheet disclosure | 3-mark Share Capital note as per Schedule III. | Authorised, issued, subscribed (fully and not fully paid), less arrears, add forfeiture balance. |
Tricks to remember Accounting for Share Capital
Short memory aids. Say each one aloud once, then use it on a question the same day.
Forfeiture recipe: C-P-U-R
Debit Called-up capital (and unpaid Premium); credit Unpaid calls and Received money (to forfeiture).
Use it when: Every forfeiture entry.
Discount ≤ forfeited
You can give away on reissue at most what you took away on forfeiture.
Use it when: Reissue limits.
A-I-S-C-P
Authorised ≥ Issued ≥ Subscribed ≥ Called-up ≥ Paid-up.
Use it when: Categories of share capital.
Premium travels with allotment
Unless told otherwise, premium is collected with allotment.
Use it when: Splitting allotment money.
Accounting for Share Capital: board-level solved questions
Ordered from board level to HOTS. Cover the solution, write your own, then compare step by step.
Example 1: Limit on reissue discount · 1 mark · MCQBoard level
300 shares of ₹10 each, on which ₹6 per share had been paid, were forfeited. The maximum discount at which they can be reissued is:
(a) ₹3,000
(b) ₹1,800
(c) ₹1,200
(d) ₹600
Try it first, then show the solutionSolution
- Maximum discount = amount forfeited = 300 × ₹6.
Answer: (b) ₹1,800
Example 2: Uses of securities premium · 1 mark · Assertion-reasonBoard level
Assertion (A): A company cannot use its securities premium to pay dividends.
Reason (R): Section 52 of the Companies Act 2013 restricts the use of securities premium to specified purposes.
(a) Both true and R explains A (b) Both true, R does not explain A (c) A true, R false (d) A false, R true
Try it first, then show the solutionSolution
- Dividend is not one of the Section 52 purposes.
Answer: (a)
Example 3: Shares issued to a vendor at a premium · 3 marks · Short answerHarder board level
Suppose Sarthi Ltd purchased a building for ₹4,62,000 from Mehta Builders. It paid ₹22,000 by cheque and the balance by issuing equity shares of ₹100 each at a premium of 10%. Pass the journal entries and state the number of shares issued.
Try it first, then show the solutionSolution
- Paid in shares = 4,62,000 − 22,000 = ₹4,40,000; issue price ₹110; shares = 4,000.
Particulars Dr (₹) Cr (₹) Building A/c ... Dr 4,62,000 To Mehta Builders 4,62,000 (Building purchased) Mehta Builders ... Dr 4,62,000 To Bank A/c 22,000 To Equity Share Capital A/c 4,00,000 To Securities Premium A/c 40,000 (Vendor paid by cheque and by issue of 4,000 shares at ₹110)
Answer: 4,000 shares; capital ₹4,00,000, premium ₹40,000, cheque ₹22,000.
Example 4: Forfeiture when premium was received, and reissue · 4 marks · Short answerHarder board level
Suppose a company issued shares of ₹10 at ₹12 (₹3 on application, ₹5 on allotment including premium, ₹4 on first and final call). Kavya, holding 200 shares, paid application and allotment but not the call. Her shares were forfeited and reissued at ₹7 per share fully paid. Pass the entries for forfeiture and reissue.
Try it first, then show the solutionSolution
- Premium was received with allotment, so Securities Premium is not debited.
Particulars Dr (₹) Cr (₹) Equity Share Capital A/c ... Dr 2,000 To Equity Share First and Final Call A/c 800 To Share Forfeiture A/c 1,200 (200 shares forfeited for non-payment of call) Bank A/c ... Dr 1,400 Share Forfeiture A/c ... Dr 600 To Equity Share Capital A/c 2,000 (200 shares reissued @ ₹7 fully paid) Share Forfeiture A/c ... Dr 600 To Capital Reserve A/c 600 (Gain on reissue transferred)
Answer: Share Forfeiture ₹1,200; reissue discount ₹600; capital reserve ₹600.
Example 5: Complete issue with pro-rata allotment, forfeiture and partial reissue · 6 marks · Long answerHarder board level
Suppose Vayu Ltd invited applications for 50,000 equity shares of ₹10 each at a premium of ₹2, payable ₹3 on application, ₹5 on allotment (including premium) and ₹4 on first and final call. Applications were received for 70,000 shares. Applications for 10,000 shares were rejected and money refunded; applicants for 60,000 shares were allotted 50,000 shares pro rata, and excess application money was adjusted towards allotment. Ravi, who had applied for 720 shares, failed to pay allotment and the call; his shares were forfeited. Later, 400 of these shares were reissued at ₹8 per share fully paid. Pass the journal entries.
Try it first, then show the solutionSolution
- Ravi: allotted 600 (720 × 5/6); excess application money = 120 × ₹3 = ₹360; allotment unpaid = 600 × 5 − 360 = ₹2,640.
- Allotment cash = 2,50,000 − 30,000 − 2,640 = ₹2,17,360; call cash = 2,00,000 − 2,400 = ₹1,97,600.
- Forfeiture: called up 600 × ₹10 = ₹6,000; premium not received ₹1,200; received towards capital 1,800 + 360 = ₹2,160.
Particulars Dr (₹) Cr (₹) Bank A/c ... Dr 2,10,000 To Equity Share Application A/c 2,10,000 (Application money received on 70,000 shares @ ₹3) Equity Share Application A/c ... Dr 2,10,000 To Equity Share Capital A/c 1,50,000 To Equity Share Allotment A/c 30,000 To Bank A/c 30,000 (Application money transferred to capital; excess on 10,000 shares adjusted to allotment; 10,000 shares refunded) Equity Share Allotment A/c ... Dr 2,50,000 To Equity Share Capital A/c 1,50,000 To Securities Premium A/c 1,00,000 (Allotment due on 50,000 shares @ ₹5 including premium ₹2) Bank A/c ... Dr 2,17,360 To Equity Share Allotment A/c 2,17,360 (Allotment money received except from Ravi) Equity Share First and Final Call A/c ... Dr 2,00,000 To Equity Share Capital A/c 2,00,000 (Call due on 50,000 shares @ ₹4) Bank A/c ... Dr 1,97,600 To Equity Share First and Final Call A/c 1,97,600 (Call money received except on 600 shares) Equity Share Capital A/c ... Dr 6,000 Securities Premium A/c ... Dr 1,200 To Equity Share Allotment A/c 2,640 To Equity Share First and Final Call A/c 2,400 To Share Forfeiture A/c 2,160 (Ravi's 600 shares forfeited) Bank A/c ... Dr 3,200 Share Forfeiture A/c ... Dr 800 To Equity Share Capital A/c 4,000 (400 forfeited shares reissued @ ₹8 as fully paid) Share Forfeiture A/c ... Dr 640 To Capital Reserve A/c 640 (Gain on reissue of 400 shares transferred) - Note 1: Share Capital (Vayu Ltd)
Particulars ₹ Authorised capital: … equity shares of ₹10 each (as given in the question) … Issued capital: 50,000 equity shares of ₹10 each 5,00,000 Subscribed and fully paid: 49,800 equity shares of ₹10 each 4,98,000 Add: Share Forfeiture A/c (200 shares not reissued) 720 Total 4,98,720 - Check: bank receipts ₹5,98,160 = share capital 4,98,000 + forfeiture 720 + premium 98,800 + capital reserve 640.
Answer: Share Forfeiture ₹2,160; capital reserve ₹640; Share Forfeiture balance ₹720 on 200 shares; securities premium ₹98,800.
Example 6: One pro-rata allottee defaults on allotment · 4 marks · Short answerHOTS / competency
Suppose shares of ₹10 are issued at ₹12: ₹4 on application and ₹6 on allotment (including ₹2 premium), the rest on call. Ananya applied for 1,800 shares and was allotted 1,200 on a pro-rata basis. She failed to pay allotment and her shares were forfeited immediately after allotment. Calculate the amount she owed on allotment and pass the forfeiture entry.
Try it first, then show the solutionSolution
- Excess = 600 × ₹4 = ₹2,400; allotment owed = 7,200 − 2,400 = ₹4,800.
- Called up so far ₹8 per share (₹4 + ₹4 capital part of allotment) = ₹9,600; premium due but not received ₹2,400.
- Received towards capital = 1,200 × ₹4 + ₹2,400 excess = ₹7,200.
Particulars Dr (₹) Cr (₹) Equity Share Capital A/c ... Dr 9,600 Securities Premium A/c ... Dr 2,400 To Equity Share Allotment A/c 4,800 To Share Forfeiture A/c 7,200 (Ananya's 1,200 shares forfeited after allotment)
Answer: Owed ₹4,800; Share Forfeiture A/c credited ₹7,200.
Example 7: Share Capital note with calls in arrears · 3 marks · Short answerHOTS / competency
Suppose a company is authorised to issue 2,00,000 equity shares of ₹10 each. It offered 1,00,000 shares; 90,000 were subscribed. ₹8 per share has been called; a shareholder holding 2,000 shares has not paid the last call of ₹1. Show share capital in the Notes to Accounts. Why is the forfeiture balance sometimes added in such a note?
Try it first, then show the solutionSolution
- Note: Share Capital
Particulars ₹ Authorised capital: 2,00,000 equity shares of ₹10 each 20,00,000 Issued capital: 1,00,000 equity shares of ₹10 each 10,00,000 Subscribed capital: subscribed but not fully paid: 90,000 equity shares of ₹10 each, ₹8 called up 7,20,000 Less: Calls in arrears (2,000 shares @ ₹1) 2,000 Total subscribed capital 7,18,000 - Share Forfeiture A/c is money received on shares that no longer exist in the subscribed figure; until those shares are reissued, it is added to subscribed capital in the note.
Answer: Subscribed capital ₹7,18,000 after deducting calls in arrears.
Example 8: Excess application money · 1 mark · MCQHarder board level
A company offered 50,000 shares with ₹3 on application. Applicants for 60,000 shares were allotted 50,000 pro rata. The excess application money adjusted towards allotment is:
(a) ₹1,50,000
(b) ₹30,000
(c) ₹60,000
(d) ₹10,000
Try it first, then show the solutionSolution
- 10,000 excess shares × ₹3.
Answer: (b) ₹30,000
Case-study practice (Section E style)
Read the situation, then answer every part. In the board paper this is a 4-mark question split into 1 + 1 + 2 marks.
A start-up raises its first public capital
Suppose Kalp Robotics Ltd, after private placement to a few investors, offers 1,00,000 equity shares of ₹10 each to the public at ₹15 (₹4 on application, ₹6 on allotment including ₹5 premium, and ₹5 on first and final call). It receives applications for only 85,000 shares. It also plans an ESOP for its engineers.
(i) · 1 mark
Can the company proceed to allot shares?
Answer
Answer: No.
Minimum subscription is 90% (90,000 shares); only 85,000 were applied for, so application money must be refunded.
(ii) · 1 mark
What was the private placement it made earlier?
Answer
Answer: An offer of shares to a select group of persons through a private placement offer letter under Section 42.
Not an offer to the general public.
(iii) · 2 marks
If applications had been for 95,000 shares and all were allotted, how much would be credited to Securities Premium and to Share Capital on allotment?
Answer
Answer: Premium ₹4,75,000; share capital ₹95,000.
Allotment ₹6 = ₹1 capital + ₹5 premium; × 95,000 shares.
Where the marks are
How a typical answer is split into step marks. Show every step: a right final answer alone rarely earns full marks.
Capital reserve on partial reissue of forfeited shares. (3 marks)
| Step | Marks |
|---|---|
| Forfeited amount per share | 1 |
| Forfeited amount on reissued shares and discount | 1 |
| Capital reserve and balance in Share Forfeiture A/c | 1 |
Forfeiture and reissue of shares originally issued at a premium (premium received). (4 marks)
| Step | Marks |
|---|---|
| Forfeiture entry without debiting premium | 1.5 |
| Reissue entry with discount debited to Share Forfeiture | 1.5 |
| Transfer to Capital Reserve | 1 |
Journal entries for a complete issue with pro-rata allotment, forfeiture and reissue (Vayu Ltd). (6 marks)
| Step | Marks |
|---|---|
| Application received, transferred, adjusted and refunded | 1.5 |
| Allotment due and received (with the defaulter's calculation) | 1.5 |
| Call due and received | 1 |
| Forfeiture including premium not received | 1 |
| Reissue and capital reserve | 1 |
Where students lose marks in Accounting for Share Capital
The slips examiners see most often, and what to write instead.
Mistake: Debiting Securities Premium on forfeiture when the premium had already been received
Habit of always reversing premium.
Wrong working
Share Capital Dr 2,000; Securities Premium Dr 400 ...
Right working
Share Capital Dr 2,000 To Call 800, To Share Forfeiture 1,200
Do this: Debit premium only if it was due and remains unpaid.
Usually costs: 1-2 marks.
Mistake: Transferring the whole Share Forfeiture balance to capital reserve after a partial reissue
Not working per share.
Do this: Only the forfeited amount on reissued shares, less discount, goes to capital reserve.
Usually costs: 1-2 marks.
Mistake: Ignoring a defaulter's excess application money
Treating pro-rata allottees like full allottees.
Do this: Excess application money reduces allotment due and adds to the amount forfeited.
Usually costs: 1-2 marks.
Mistake: Crediting share capital with the premium on allotment
Not splitting the allotment.
Do this: Allotment due: credit Share Capital with the capital part and Securities Premium with the premium part.
Usually costs: 1 mark.
Mistake: Recording interest on calls in arrears
Following older textbooks.
Do this: Interest on calls in arrears and in advance is outside the 2026-27 syllabus; record calls without interest.
Usually costs: Wasted time and possible errors.
NCERT exercise guide: Accounting for Share Capital
What each exercise in the NCERT chapter tests, how to approach it, and a question of the same kind solved step by step. Questions here are written in our own words.
Short and long answer questions
What it tests: Company features, kinds of companies, categories of capital, equity versus preference shares, minimum subscription, securities premium, forfeiture.
How to approach it: Define the term and add one line of significance or an example.
Same kind as NCERT theory questions
State four purposes for which securities premium may be used.
Show the solutionSolution
- Issue of fully paid bonus shares; writing off preliminary expenses.
- Writing off expenses or discount on issue of securities; premium on redemption; buy-back of shares.
Answer: Any four of the five Section 52 purposes.
Issue of shares at par and premium, with arrears or advance
What it tests: Journal entries for application, allotment and calls, including calls in arrears and in advance.
How to approach it: Two entries per instalment: due and received.
Same kind as NCERT issue numericals
Suppose 10,000 shares of ₹10 are issued at ₹11, with ₹5 (including premium ₹1) due on allotment. Pass the allotment-due entry.
Show the solutionSolution
- Allotment due = 10,000 × ₹5 = ₹50,000; premium part ₹10,000.
Answer: Equity Share Allotment A/c Dr 50,000 To Equity Share Capital A/c 40,000 and To Securities Premium A/c 10,000.
Over-subscription and pro-rata allotment
What it tests: Rejection, pro-rata allotment and adjustment of excess money.
How to approach it: Split applicants into groups; compute excess for each group.
Same kind as NCERT over-subscription numericals
Suppose Ananya applied for 1,800 shares and was allotted 1,200 (application ₹4, allotment ₹6 including ₹2 premium). How much does she pay on allotment?
Show the solutionSolution
- Excess = 600 × 4 = ₹2,400.
- Allotment due = 1,200 × 6 = ₹7,200; payable = 7,200 − 2,400.
Answer: ₹4,800
Forfeiture and reissue
What it tests: Forfeiture of shares issued at par and premium, reissue at a discount, capital reserve.
How to approach it: Forfeiture table for each defaulter; capital reserve on reissued shares only.
Same kind as NCERT forfeiture numericals
Suppose ₹500 was forfeited on 100 shares, which are reissued at ₹9 fully paid (face value ₹10). Find the capital reserve.
Show the solutionSolution
- Discount = ₹100.
- Capital reserve = 500 − 100.
Answer: ₹400
Accounting for Share Capital: previous year questions
- Asked in 2 of the 2 board papers we hold (2026 to 2026), on average 17 marks per paper; 14 questions in all, counting OR alternatives. In 4 of 4 sample papers.
Counted from the real papers on our previous year papers page, not estimated. Average marks are over every board paper we hold, with an OR pair counted once. Chapter tags are ours.
Solved board questions from Accounting for Share Capital
Real questions from recent papers. Try each one first, then open our step-by-step solution with marks per step.
2026, set 67/1/1, Q3(a) · 1 mark · MCQ
If 600 shares of ₹ 10 each, issued at a premium of ₹ 1 per share are forfeited on which ₹ 8 per share (including premium) have been called and ₹ 6 per share (including premium) have been paid, then 'Share Forfeiture Account' will be ________ by ________.
- (A)credited, ₹ 3,000
- (B)debited, ₹ 3,000
- (C)debited, ₹ 3,600
- (D)credited, ₹ 3,600
Try it first, then show our solutionSolution
Paid ₹ 6 per share including the ₹ 1 premium, so capital received = ₹ 5 per share. Premium received is not forfeited.
- 1 mark
Share Forfeiture A/c is credited with 600 × ₹ 5 = ₹ 3,000. Option (A).
Answer: (A) credited, ₹ 3,000
Where the marks are
- Credit of capital paid ₹ 5 × 600 (1 mark)
2026, set 67/1/1, Q19(a) · 3 marks · Short answer
Raunak Cotton Ltd. purchased machinery of ₹ 6,80,000 from Heavy Machines Ltd. The Payment to Heavy Machines Ltd. was made by issuing 10,500 equity shares of ₹ 50 each at a premium of 20% and the balance through a cheque.
Pass necessary journal entries for the above transactions in the books of Raunak Cotton Ltd.
Try it first, then show our solutionSolution
Shares: 10,500 × ₹ 60 (₹ 50 + 20% premium) = ₹ 6,30,000 (capital ₹ 5,25,000, premium ₹ 1,05,000). Balance by cheque = 6,80,000 − 6,30,000 = ₹ 50,000.
- 1 mark
Particulars Dr. (₹) Cr. (₹) Machinery A/c Dr. 6,80,000 To Heavy Machines Ltd. 6,80,000 (Being machinery purchased) - 2 marks
Particulars Dr. (₹) Cr. (₹) Heavy Machines Ltd. Dr. 6,80,000 To Equity Share Capital A/c 5,25,000 To Securities Premium A/c 1,05,000 To Bank A/c 50,000 (Being vendor paid by 10,500 shares at 20% premium and a cheque) The payment can also be split into two entries: shares ₹ 6,30,000 and cheque ₹ 50,000.
Answer: Machinery Dr. ₹ 6,80,000 to Heavy Machines Ltd.; Heavy Machines Ltd. Dr. ₹ 6,80,000 to Share Capital ₹ 5,25,000, Securities Premium ₹ 1,05,000, Bank ₹ 50,000
Where the marks are
- Purchase entry (1 mark)
- Payment by shares at premium and cheque (2 marks)
2026, set 67/1/1, Q24(a) · 6 marks · Long answer
Generic Pharma Ltd. invited applications for using 3,00,000 equity shares of ₹ 10 each at a premium of ₹ 6 per share. The amount was payable as follows :
on Application and Allotment – ₹ 4 per share (including premium of ₹ 2 per share)
on First and Final Call – Balance
Applications for 4,00,000 shares were received. Applications for 40,000 shares were rejected and the application money was refunded. Shares were allotted on pro-rata basis to the remaining applicants. Excess money received on applications was adjusted towards sums due on first and final call. Jain, an applicant for 3,600 shares failed to pay the first and final call. His shares were forfeited.
Pass necessary journal entries in the books of Generic Pharma Ltd. for the above transactions. Open 'calls in arrears account' and 'calls in advance account', wherever necessary.
Try it first, then show our solutionSolution
Working. Per share: application and allotment ₹ 2 capital + ₹ 2 premium; call ₹ 8 capital + ₹ 4 premium. 3,60,000 applicants get 3,00,000 shares (6 : 5); excess 60,000 × 4 = ₹ 2,40,000 held as calls in advance. Jain (3,600 applied, 3,000 allotted) had ₹ 2,400 in advance, so his arrears = 3,000 × 12 − 2,400 = ₹ 33,600.
- 1 mark
Particulars Dr. (₹) Cr. (₹) Bank A/c Dr. 16,00,000 To Equity Share Application and Allotment A/c 16,00,000 (Being application money received on 4,00,000 shares at ₹ 4) - 1½ marks
Particulars Dr. (₹) Cr. (₹) Equity Share Application and Allotment A/c Dr. 16,00,000 To Equity Share Capital A/c 6,00,000 To Securities Premium A/c 6,00,000 To Calls in Advance A/c 2,40,000 To Bank A/c 1,60,000 (Being application money adjusted, excess held and rejected money refunded) - 1 mark
Particulars Dr. (₹) Cr. (₹) Equity Share First and Final Call A/c Dr. 36,00,000 To Equity Share Capital A/c 24,00,000 To Securities Premium A/c 12,00,000 (Being call money due) - 1 mark
Particulars Dr. (₹) Cr. (₹) Bank A/c Dr. 33,26,400 Calls in Arrears A/c Dr. 33,600 Calls in Advance A/c Dr. 2,40,000 To Equity Share First and Final Call A/c 36,00,000 (Being call money received except from Jain) - 1½ marks
Forfeiture: capital called ₹ 10 × 3,000 and unpaid premium ₹ 4 × 3,000 are cancelled; Jain had paid 3,000 × 2 + 2,400 = ₹ 8,400 towards capital.
Particulars Dr. (₹) Cr. (₹) Equity Share Capital A/c Dr. 30,000 Securities Premium A/c Dr. 12,000 To Share Forfeiture A/c 8,400 To Calls in Arrears A/c 33,600 (Being Jain's 3,000 shares forfeited)
Answer: Application ₹ 16,00,000 (capital ₹ 6,00,000, premium ₹ 6,00,000, advance ₹ 2,40,000, refund ₹ 1,60,000); call ₹ 36,00,000, Bank ₹ 33,26,400, arrears ₹ 33,600; forfeiture to Share Forfeiture ₹ 8,400
Where the marks are
- Money received (1 mark)
- Application adjustment (1½ marks)
- Call due (1 mark)
- Call received (1 mark)
- Forfeiture (1½ marks)
Every Accounting for Share Capital question, by year
- For 2027
Sample paper 2026-27: Q3 (1 mark, solved), Q4 (1 mark, solved), Q11 (1 mark, solved), Q12 (1 mark, solved), Q15 (1 mark, solved), Q21 (4 marks, solved), Q26(A) (6 marks, solved), Q26(B) (6 marks, solved)
- 2026
Set 67/1/1: Q3(a) (1 mark, solved), Q6(b) (1 mark, solved), Q12 (1 mark, solved), Q13 (1 mark, solved), Q19(a) (3 marks, solved), Q24(a) (6 marks, solved), Q24(b) (6 marks, solved), Q26 (6 marks, solved)
Set 67/5/1: Q3(a) (1 mark, solved), Q6(a) (1 mark, solved), Q14 (1 mark, solved), Q23 (6 marks, solved), Q25(a) (6 marks, solved), Q25(b) (6 marks, solved)
Sample paper 2025-26: Q3(a) (1 mark, solved), Q3(b) (1 mark, solved), Q4(b) (1 mark, solved), Q21 (4 marks, solved), Q23 (6 marks, solved), Q26(a) (6 marks, solved), Q26(b) (6 marks, solved)
Practice questions on Accounting for Share Capital
Write each answer on paper first. Open the hint only if you are stuck, and the answer only when you have finished.
Q1 · 1 mark · MCQBoard level
The minimum subscription a company must receive before allotment is:
(a) 50% of the issue
(b) 75% of the issue
(c) 90% of the issue
(d) 100% of the issueHint
Otherwise refund.
Answer
(c) 90%
Q2 · 1 mark · MCQBoard level
Calls in advance are shown in the balance sheet under:
(a) Share Capital
(b) Reserves and Surplus
(c) Other Current Liabilities
(d) Short-term ProvisionsHint
Money the company holds for a call not yet made.
Answer
(c) Other Current Liabilities
Q3 · 3 marks · Short answerBoard level
Distinguish between equity shares and preference shares on three bases.
Hint
Dividend, capital repayment, voting.
Answer
Dividend: fixed rate, paid first vs variable, paid after preference. Repayment on winding up: before equity vs last. Voting: limited (on matters affecting them) vs full voting rights.
Q4 · 3 marks · Short answerBoard level
Explain private placement, ESOP and sweat equity in one line each.
Hint
Who is offered the shares?
Answer
Private placement: offer to a select group through an offer letter (Section 42). ESOP: option to employees to buy shares later below fair value. Sweat equity: shares to employees or directors at a discount or for non-cash consideration for know-how or value additions.
Q5 · 4 marks · Short answerHarder board level
Suppose a company offered 40,000 shares of ₹10 each (₹3 on application, ₹4 on allotment, ₹3 on call) and received applications for 36,000 shares, all allotted. All money was received except the call on 500 shares. Pass the journal entries.
Hint
Under-subscription: work with 36,000 shares (90% met).
Answer
Particulars Dr (₹) Cr (₹) Bank A/c ... Dr 1,08,000 To Equity Share Application A/c 1,08,000 (Application money on 36,000 shares) Equity Share Application A/c ... Dr 1,08,000 To Equity Share Capital A/c 1,08,000 (Transferred to capital) Equity Share Allotment A/c ... Dr 1,44,000 To Equity Share Capital A/c 1,44,000 (Allotment due) Bank A/c ... Dr 1,44,000 To Equity Share Allotment A/c 1,44,000 (Allotment received) Equity Share First and Final Call A/c ... Dr 1,08,000 To Equity Share Capital A/c 1,08,000 (Call due) Bank A/c ... Dr 1,06,500 Calls in Arrears A/c ... Dr 1,500 To Equity Share First and Final Call A/c 1,08,000 (Call received except on 500 shares) Q6 · 3 marks · Short answerHarder board level
Suppose 800 shares of ₹10 each on which ₹4,800 had been received were forfeited, and 500 of them were reissued at ₹7 per share fully paid. Calculate the capital reserve and the balance left in Share Forfeiture A/c.
Hint
Per-share forfeited amount first.
Answer
Forfeited per share ₹6; on 500 shares ₹3,000; discount ₹1,500; capital reserve ₹1,500; balance ₹1,800 on 300 shares.
Q7 · 3 marks · Short answerHarder board level
Suppose 400 shares of ₹10 each issued at ₹13 (premium ₹3 payable with allotment) were forfeited after the holder paid only application money of ₹2. Allotment money was ₹6 (including premium) and the call ₹5 had been made. Pass the forfeiture entry.
Hint
Premium was not received.
Answer
Particulars Dr (₹) Cr (₹) Equity Share Capital A/c ... Dr 4,000 Securities Premium A/c ... Dr 1,200 To Equity Share Allotment A/c 2,400 To Equity Share First and Final Call A/c 2,000 To Share Forfeiture A/c 800 (400 shares forfeited) Q8 · 6 marks · Long answerHOTS / competency
Suppose Tarang Ltd issued 20,000 shares of ₹10 each at par (₹2 application, ₹3 allotment, ₹3 first call, ₹2 final call). Applications came for 30,000 shares: 5,000 were rejected and the rest allotted pro rata, excess adjusted on allotment. Mohan, allotted 100 shares, did not pay either call; his shares were forfeited and reissued at ₹9 fully paid. Pass the journal entries.
Hint
Applicants for 25,000 get 20,000; excess = 5,000 × ₹2.
Answer
Particulars Dr (₹) Cr (₹) Bank A/c ... Dr 60,000 To Equity Share Application A/c 60,000 (Application money on 30,000 shares @ ₹2) Equity Share Application A/c ... Dr 60,000 To Equity Share Capital A/c 40,000 To Equity Share Allotment A/c 10,000 To Bank A/c 10,000 (Transferred, adjusted and refunded) Equity Share Allotment A/c ... Dr 60,000 To Equity Share Capital A/c 60,000 (Allotment due @ ₹3) Bank A/c ... Dr 50,000 To Equity Share Allotment A/c 50,000 (Allotment received) Equity Share First Call A/c ... Dr 60,000 To Equity Share Capital A/c 60,000 (First call due @ ₹3) Bank A/c ... Dr 59,700 To Equity Share First Call A/c 59,700 (First call received except on 100 shares) Equity Share Final Call A/c ... Dr 40,000 To Equity Share Capital A/c 40,000 (Final call due @ ₹2) Bank A/c ... Dr 39,800 To Equity Share Final Call A/c 39,800 (Final call received except on 100 shares) Equity Share Capital A/c ... Dr 1,000 To Equity Share First Call A/c 300 To Equity Share Final Call A/c 200 To Share Forfeiture A/c 500 (Mohan's 100 shares forfeited) Bank A/c ... Dr 900 Share Forfeiture A/c ... Dr 100 To Equity Share Capital A/c 1,000 (Reissued @ ₹9 fully paid) Share Forfeiture A/c ... Dr 400 To Capital Reserve A/c 400 (Gain on reissue transferred) Q9 · 1 mark · Assertion-reasonHOTS / competency
Assertion (A): Forfeited shares can be reissued at a discount.
Reason (R): The discount on reissue cannot exceed the amount forfeited on those shares.
(a) Both true and R explains A (b) Both true, R does not explain A (c) A true, R false (d) A false, R trueHint
Does R explain why reissue at discount is allowed?
Answer
(b) Both are true, but R states a limit; it does not explain why reissue at a discount is permitted.
Q10 · 1 mark · MCQHarder board level
1,000 shares of ₹10 each (₹8 called up) were forfeited after ₹5 per share had been paid. 600 were reissued at ₹6 per share as ₹8 paid up. The amount transferred to capital reserve is:
(a) ₹1,800
(b) ₹3,000
(c) ₹1,200
(d) ₹600Hint
Discount = ₹2 per share on 600.
Answer
(a) Forfeited on 600 = ₹3,000; discount ₹1,200; capital reserve ₹1,800.
Test your recall
Answer in your head or on paper first, then open the card. Pulling an answer out of memory makes it stick far better than re-reading.
1.What is paid-up capital?Show answer
Called-up capital minus calls in arrears.
2.Name two uses of securities premium.Show answer
Issuing fully paid bonus shares; writing off preliminary expenses (also discount on issue, premium on redemption, buy-back).
3.Where is the Share Forfeiture balance shown?Show answer
Added to subscribed capital in the Share Capital note until the shares are reissued.
4.What is the maximum discount on reissue?Show answer
The amount forfeited on those shares.
5.Where does the gain on reissue go?Show answer
To Capital Reserve.
6.What is minimum subscription?Show answer
At least 90% of the issue; otherwise application money is refunded.
7.How many shares are issued to a vendor?Show answer
Purchase consideration ÷ issue price.
8.Is interest on calls in arrears in the 2026-27 syllabus?Show answer
No; calls in arrears and advance are recorded without interest.
Best order to study it
- Learn company features, kinds of companies and categories of share capital.
- Learn equity and preference shares and the Schedule III note.
- Practise issue at par and premium with calls in arrears and advance.
- Master over-subscription and pro-rata allotment.
- Practise forfeiture and reissue, including shares issued at a premium and partial reissue.
- Do full 6-mark questions from application to reissue.
- Learn private placement, ESOP and sweat equity definitions.
Quick revision checklist
The night before the exam: can you do each of these without looking?
- Can you list authorised, issued, subscribed, called-up and paid-up capital?
- Can you split allotment money between capital and premium?
- Can you compute excess application money for a pro-rata allottee?
- Can you record calls in arrears and calls in advance without interest?
- Can you issue shares to a vendor at a premium?
- Can you pass forfeiture entries with and without premium received?
- Can you calculate capital reserve after a partial reissue?
- Can you prepare the Share Capital note as per Schedule III?
- Can you explain minimum subscription?
- Can you define private placement, ESOP and sweat equity?
Accounting for Share Capital: frequently asked questions
Can a company issue shares at a discount?
Under the Companies Act 2013, no, except sweat equity shares. Forfeited shares can, however, be reissued at a discount up to the amount forfeited.
Should I open a Calls in Arrears account?
Either is accepted: leave the unpaid amount in the call account or transfer it to Calls in Arrears A/c. Use the account the question asks for.
Where does excess application money go if it exceeds allotment due?
It is adjusted towards calls if the terms allow, otherwise refunded.
Are ESOP and sweat equity accounting entries required?
No. The 2026-27 syllabus covers private placement, ESOP and sweat equity as concepts only.
Why is capital reserve not distributed as dividend?
It arises from a capital profit (reissue of forfeited shares), so it is kept as part of the company's reserves.
Based on: CBSE Accountancy (055) syllabus 2026-27; NCERT Accountancy Part II (Company Accounts and Analysis of Financial Statements), Textbook for Class XII (Reprint 2026-27)