If your bank is overcharging you, not reversing unauthorized transactions, or ignoring your complaints, you don’t have to wait helplessly.
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) offers a simple online system called the Complaint Management System (CMS).
This portal operates under the Integrated Ombudsman Scheme and is completely free to use.
What Issues Can You Report?
The CMS portal lets you escalate a wide range of banking problems, including:
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 retail issues, such as account closure problems or card charges
If your bank mishandled a previous complaint, the matter goes directly to the RBI.
This ensures even small issues get proper attention.
Steps to Take Before Filing a Complaint
Before approaching the RBI portal, you must first complain to your bank or financial company.
The bank has 30 days to respond.
If you don’t get a reply, or if the response is unsatisfactory, you can escalate the issue to the RBI.
Even if the bank quickly closes your complaint, you can proceed immediately.
Keep proof of your complaint, such as emails, screenshots, or statements from prior conversations—these will be needed later.
Skipping this step may lead to your complaint being rejected.
How to File a Complaint on the RBI Portal
Filing a complaint is simple and straightforward:
Visit cms.rbi.org.in and select your bank, NBFC, or payment service provider.
Enter your name, address, mobile number, and a detailed description of the issue.
Upload proof supporting your complaint.
Submit the complaint and receive a unique reference number to track the case.
Once submitted, RBI forwards your complaint to the concerned bank.
If the bank delays or provides an unsatisfactory response, the Ombudsman personally investigates.
Most complaints are resolved within a month, and banks either reverse charges or provide a proper resolution.
