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Banking Ombudsman complaint — 2026 guide
Quick answer: Banking Ombudsman is RBI-appointed adjudicator for bank service deficiencies. Free, online (cms.rbi.org.in), 30-90 day resolution. RTI to bank in parallel.
Key facts
- BO covers all scheduled commercial banks (PSU + private)
- Free; no fee at any stage
- Online via cms.rbi.org.in
- 30-90 day resolution typically
- Compensation up to Rs 30 lakh + Rs 1 lakh for mental harassment
Step-by-step process
- File complaint at cms.rbi.org.in — Need bank complaint refused first.
- Submit grievance + bank refusal proof — Within 1 year of bank refusal.
- BO acknowledges — 7 days.
- BO calls hearing — Conciliation OR adjudication.
- Decision in 30-90 days — Mandatory for bank.
- Compensation + service direction — Per BO order.
Documents needed
- Bank complaint reference + bank reply
- Identity proof
- Account details
Common issues + how to handle
- BO acknowledges but no movement — RTI to BO secretariat for case allocation.
- BO decides against you — appeal to Appellate Authority RBI within 30 days.
- Bank not implementing BO decision — file contempt petition or RTI for compliance.
- Compensation denied — challenge under §16 of BO scheme.
If stuck — file an RTI
Most “delays” or “rejections” clear within 7-15 days of an RTI being filed. Use this 5-question template:
1. Status of my application no. _____ dated _____ as on date. 2. Name + designation of dealing officer assigned to my file. 3. Reasons for delay beyond the statutory timeline. 4. Copy of any noting / movement of my file in the past 30 days. 5. Likely date of resolution / decision.
Auto-fill the PIO + your case: Open the AI RTI Drafter →
Frequently asked questions
Free?
Yes — fully free. RBI funds the secretariat.
Time limit?
1 year from bank's final reply (or 6 months from no reply).
Compensation cap?
Rs 30 lakh financial harm + Rs 1 lakh mental agony (max).
Appeal possible?
Yes — to Appellate Authority RBI within 30 days.
Summary + next step
Bottom line: Banking Ombudsman is RBI-appointed adjudicator for bank service deficiencies. Free, online (cms.rbi.org.in), 30-90 day resolution. RTI to bank in parallel. If delayed beyond statutory timeline, file an RTI — most cases clear within 15 days.
- AI RTI Drafter: Auto-fill PIO + your case
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- Browse all banking guides: Index
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Last reviewed: 26 April 2026.

