If your bank is overcharging you, not reversing unauthorized transactions, or ignoring your complaints, you don’t have to stay silent.
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has made it easy to escalate such issues online through its Complaint Management System (CMS).
This system is free and works under the Integrated Ombudsman Scheme.
What Problems Can You Report?
The CMS portal helps you report a wide range of banking issues:
Incorrect or excessive charges
Failed ATM or UPI transactions that aren’t refunded
Delayed fund transfers
Unauthorized debits
Loan-related complaints
Mis-sold financial products
Minor issues like card charges or account closure problems
If your bank mishandled a previous complaint, the matter goes directly to the RBI.
This makes it simple to get help even for small retail banking issues.
Steps to Follow Before Filing a Complaint
Before using the RBI portal, you must first complain to your bank or financial company.
Banks have 30 days to respond.
If you don’t get a reply in 30 days, or if the response is unsatisfactory, you can escalate the complaint to the RBI.
Even if the bank quickly closes your complaint, you can proceed immediately.
Keep proof like emails, screenshots, or statements from your previous conversations—they will help later.
Skipping the bank step may result in your complaint being rejected, so always follow this order.
How to File a Complaint on the RBI Portal
Filing a complaint is simple:
Visit cms.rbi.org.in and select your bank, NBFC, or payment service provider.
Enter your name, address, mobile number, and details of the issue.
Upload a copy of proof supporting your complaint.
Submit the complaint and get a unique reference number to track your case.
Once submitted, RBI forwards your complaint to the bank.
If the bank delays or responds inappropriately, the Ombudsman personally investigates.
Most issues are resolved within a month, and banks either reverse charges or provide a correct response.