TL;DR: The RBI Ombudsman process requires you to first raise your complaint with your bank and either receive an unsatisfactory response or get no response within 30 days.
How to File an RBI Ombudsman Complaint — a clear, step-by-step guide to what to do and how long it takes.
Step 1: First complain to your bank directly
The RBI Ombudsman process requires you to first raise your complaint with your bank and either receive an unsatisfactory response or get no response within 30 days.
Step 2: File your complaint on cms.rbi.org.in
Once you've met that condition, file your complaint on the RBI's Complaint Management System (CMS) at cms.rbi.org.in, providing your bank complaint reference and the details of the unresolved issue.
Step 3: Attach supporting documents
Upload your original complaint to the bank, its response (if any), and any evidence supporting your case, such as transaction records or correspondence.
Step 4: Track and respond to the Ombudsman's requests
The Ombudsman's office may reach out for clarification or additional documents — respond promptly to keep your complaint moving, and track status through the CMS portal.
If this looks similar to something else you've seen, it's worth reading How to Freeze a Bank Account After UPI Fraud.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Step 1: First complain to your bank directly
The RBI Ombudsman process requires you to first raise your complaint with your bank and either receive an unsatisfactory response or get no response within 30 days.
Step 2: File your complaint on cms.rbi.org.in
Once you've met that condition, file your complaint on the RBI's Complaint Management System (CMS) at cms.rbi.org.in, providing your bank complaint reference and the details of the unresolved issue.
Step 3: Attach supporting documents
Upload your original complaint to the bank, its response (if any), and any evidence supporting your case, such as transaction records or correspondence.
Step 4: Track and respond to the Ombudsman's requests
The Ombudsman's office may reach out for clarification or additional documents — respond promptly to keep your complaint moving, and track status through the CMS portal.