Bank debited money wrongly? How to complain to the bank and RBI Ombudsman
Updated 2026-10 · General information, not legal advice. · Reviewed by: Ayush Sachan, Advocate, 2026-10-11 · How we review
If your bank or a payment app took money you did not agree to, you can complain in writing, and escalate to the Reserve Bank of India Ombudsman for free if the bank does not fix it.
When to use this
- Money was debited but the transaction failed
- A charge or transaction you did not make appears on your account
- The bank has not answered your complaint
Step by step
- 1
Report it to the bank at once
Call the bank and block the card or account if the transaction is unauthorised. Report fraud on 1930 or cybercrime.gov.in too. Early reporting matters for your liability.
- 2
Complain in writing
Write to the bank branch or its grievance channel and keep the complaint number. Attach the statement, screenshots and transaction ID.
- 3
Wait for the bank's reply
Give the bank 30 days to resolve it. Keep every reply.
- 4
Go to the RBI Ombudsman
If the bank rejects your complaint or does not reply in 30 days, file free at cms.rbi.org.in. The helpline is 14448.
- 5
Consider the Consumer Commission
For a larger loss or compensation, you can also file at the Consumer Commission after a legal notice.
Key facts
- The RBI Ombudsman is free to use
- Complain to the bank first; the Ombudsman usually needs that step
- Report an unauthorised transaction within 3 working days to limit your liability
Get your free action plan
Tell us what happened. We show your options, draft the letters and track every deadline.
Common questions
How long does the bank have to respond?
Give it 30 days. After that, or if it rejects your complaint, you can go to the RBI Ombudsman.
Does the Ombudsman charge a fee?
No. Filing at cms.rbi.org.in is free and does not need a lawyer.