How to File a Complaint with the Banking Ombudsman: A Step-by-Step Guide

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Do you know that if your bank ignores your complaint, delays action, or harasses you, you can directly escalate your issue to the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) without paying a single rupee? Under RBI’s Integrated Ombudsman Scheme (RB-IOS), 2021, Indian consumers now have a simpler, unified process to seek justice against banks, NBFCs, and payment system providers. According to The Economic Times, there has been a noticeable rise in complaints filed due to wrongful charges, credit report issues, and aggressive recovery practices.

If you’re facing bank negligence, EMI disputes, or harassment by recovery agents, this article will walk you through the entire banking ombudsman complaint India process—step by step. We’ll also share examples, eligibility, tips, and how SingleDebt can support you when your finances and peace of mind are under attack.

What Is the RBI’s Banking Ombudsman Scheme?

The Banking Ombudsman Scheme is RBI’s official grievance redressal mechanism. It helps bank customers raise complaints related to deficiency in banking services, loan mishandling, credit card fraud, unauthorized charges, and even mental harassment by recovery agents.

Under the RB-IOS, 2021, a senior official appointed by the RBI (called the Banking Ombudsman) is empowered to review and resolve complaints within 30 days, free of cost.

When Should You File a Complaint with RBI?

You can file a complaint with RBI if:

  • Your bank or NBFC fails to resolve your complaint within 30 days
  • You are dissatisfied with their final response
  • You are facing unethical recovery tactics like repeated calls, public shaming, or home visits
  • Your bank violated RBI service norms, such as blocking your account without reason

🗓️ You must file your complaint:

  • Within 1 year from the bank’s last written response, or
  • Within 13 months from the date you raised the issue with the bank

Common Examples: Why People File Complaints

1. Harassment from Recovery Agents

Ramesh, a 41-year-old from Pune, missed a few EMI payments after a family medical emergency. Despite informing the lender, he received 20+ calls daily, and recovery agents showed up at his home. The lender ignored his written requests to stop harassment. Ramesh filed a complaint with RBI’s Ombudsman—and the calls stopped within two weeks.

2. Wrong Loan Charges

Ritika from Delhi noticed her personal loan balance increasing due to unexplained charges. Her bank failed to explain even after three visits. She filed a banking ombudsman complaint India online. The RBI ruled in her favor, and the charges were reversed.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to File a Complaint with RBI Ombudsman

✅ Step 1: Try Resolving It with Your Bank First

Before going to RBI, you must first try resolving the matter directly with your bank, NBFC, or financial institution. Write a formal complaint and wait for 30 days.

If they don’t respond, or you’re unhappy with the response—you’re now eligible to approach the Banking Ombudsman.

✅ Step 2: File Your Complaint through One of These Methods

a) Online (Most Recommended)

Go to the RBI CMS Portal.
Click on “File a Complaint” and follow these steps:

  1. Choose your category: Bank, NBFC, or Payment System
  2. Enter your complaint details
  3. Upload relevant documents (bank letters, account statements, emails, etc.)
  4. Submit your complaint and note the tracking number
b) Email Complaint

Email your complaint to crpc@rbi.org.in
Make sure to include all details as outlined in Step 3 below.

c) Physical Complaint (Postal)

Send a letter in the prescribed format to:
Centralised Receipt and Processing Centre, RBI,
6th Floor, Sector 17, Chandigarh – 160017.

Note: Complaints must be filed with the office having jurisdiction over your bank branch.

✅ Step 3: Include These Mandatory Details

To file complaint RBI effectively, mention:

  • Full name, age, gender
  • Address, mobile number, and email ID
  • Bank or NBFC name and branch address
  • Detailed facts of the complaint: account number, dates, transactions, written communication
  • Proof that you raised the issue with the bank (and their response)
  • Loss or inconvenience caused
  • Relief sought (refund, penalty reversal, apology, etc.)
  • A declaration stating your complaint is valid under RBI’s RB-IOS 2021

What Happens After You File the Complaint?

The Banking Ombudsman:

  • Reviews your complaint within 30 days
  • Contacts the bank/NBFC and seeks clarification
  • Proposes a resolution or compensation
  • If unresolved, may invite you for a hearing via video or written response
  • You’ll receive a written decision

If you’re still unhappy, you can appeal the decision with the Appellate Authority within 30 days.

Bonus Tip: Always retain acknowledgement receipts, screenshots, and any calls or emails exchanged with the bank. These help strengthen your case.

Is There a Fee?

No. RBI does not charge anything to file or resolve your complaint.

Whether it’s a ₹500 charge or a ₹5 lakh loan dispute—you can raise your voice, without worrying about cost.

How SingleDebt Can Help You Along the Way

How SingleDebt Can Help You Along the Way - Infographics

If you’re struggling with debt stress, legal threats, or harassment, don’t go through it alone. SingleDebt is India’s first certified debt resolution platform that combines:

  • Paralegal teams to answer creditor calls on your behalf
  • In-house advocates who handle legal notices, arbitration, court cases
  • Debt Management Plans (DMPs) that consolidate all your unsecured loans into one affordable monthly payment
  • Guidance on how and when to file an ombudsman complaint if your bank violates RBI norms
  • Legal audits to spot RBI violations, unfair lending practices, or mischarged penalties

We’ve helped thousands of Indian borrowers breathe again—and we’ll stand with you, too.

Summary: Speak Up, File Right, and Take Control

✔ The Banking Ombudsman is your legal shield when banks don’t listen
✔ File a complaint only after 30 days of raising it with your bank
✔ You can file online, by email, or physical post—with zero fees
✔ Always provide complete facts, documents, and proof
✔ If you’re being harassed, SingleDebt can intervene legally and financially

Call to Action: File Smart, Not Silent

Your voice matters. Whether it’s wrongful charges, delayed refunds, or daily harassment from creditors—you have rights, and RBI’s Banking Ombudsman will hear them.

📞 Still unsure what to include in your complaint?
🛡️ Tired of being bounced between bank helplines?

👉 Let SingleDebt guide you—from defending your legal rights to drafting the perfect complaint.
Your peace of mind is one step away.

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