The situation is quite common to all of us. In fact, if I ask you to show me your bank account passbook, you may not be able to do so.
Yes, that’s what we are talking about! Me either; I don’t have a clue where my bank account passbook is. But one should not be too casual when dealing with personal finances.
If you know other means of accessing your bank account, such as online banking, mobile banking, UPI services, etc.
Nevertheless, we are going to discuss the solution to the lost passbook issue. How can you get a duplicate passbook? Who is to address the issue? Or is there anything else we need to be prepared for before meeting the bank staff?
So, without further ado, here we go!
Lost Passbook: Recovering Bank Account Details
A passbook is one such thing that comes to mind when we are visiting the bank. A passbook and chequebook are the two basic needs for regular banking transactions.
One is for recording what you do with your bank account, and the cheques enable you to withdraw and transfer money from your account to another.
Here are some tips that might help you recover your bank account number.
- If you know the registered mobile number, you can easily get the bank account number.
- Look for the past statement of account if you have kept a copy; it will really help.
- If these do not work, make a request for account recovery through your bank. For this, you may have to produce your identity card and other details to establish account ownership.
What is a Passbook?
A passbook is a pocket-size booklet that comes along when opening a new savings bank account.
It’s a mini-ledger that keeps a record of your transactions. Other than that, the bank provides the details of the account holder in the passbook.
With the advent of digital banking, an online passbook is now available too.
Why is an Account Passbook Considered Important?
A passbook is an important thing because it’s the owner’s document required for account owner verification. You may also find important personal details on it.
The account holder’s name, address, and account number will be printed on it. Personal details of the account, such as your PAN number and nomination number, will also be there.
Other than your personal details, you may also find your bank details, such as your branch code, IFSC, MICR code, and bank address, along with the contact details of the bank.
If you are using a non-cheque facility account, then it becomes more crucial that you have your bank account passbook with you.
The reason is that the operation of a non-cheque facility account is possible only with the production of your bank account passbook.
Though it has been seen that the State Bank of India recently started allowing its customers to withdraw funds from the non-cheque facility account only if they produce a valid identification card.
And lastly, having a bank account passbook is important because other agencies, such as Aadhaar kendra seva, the Indian passbook issuing authority, and others, rely on bank passbooks, and sometimes your work will be on hold if you are unable to produce your passbook.
How to Resolve the Issue?
Losing a bank passbook or chequebook is quite normal, and it happens to all of us.
If you have lost your passbook and are unable to access your account, the only thing that you can do is apply for a fresh one.
Here’s what you need to do:
Report to your Bank
A lost passbook needs to be notified to your bank immediately.
This will enable you to avoid losses that may include unauthorised transactions to your bank account.
You must notify the bank immediately and request a replacement.
You may get a duplicate passbook on the same day; in fact, it may take 10 to 15 minutes to get a new passbook.
Make sure to check the details printed on it. If there are any errors, make a request for correction.
However, you should know that there are certain charges for issuing a duplicate passbook that may go up to ₹100 to ₹200.
Account Owner Verification
In the process of applying for a duplicate passbook, the bank may ask you to provide a few documents for verification purposes.
It may be your identity card, such as Voter Card, Aadhaar Card, Driver’s License, Passport, etc. But know that your details are correct on your ID card.
Once the bank official verifies your request, the bank will issue you a new passbook in no time.
Request your Bank for a Duplicate Passbook
A duplicate passbook is given to the customer who has lost or misplaced the bank passbook.
It is exactly the same as the original passbook; the only difference is that you may see the marking of a duplicate on the first page of it.
Once the duplicate passbook is issued, your bank will reject any request made using the original passbook. This means that nobody else can use your account passbook.
Conclusion
A bank account passbook is a crucial document for regular banking transactions, providing the account holder’s details and enabling withdrawal and transfer of money. It is essential for account owner verification and is often required for non-cheque facility accounts. If a passbook is lost, it is necessary to report the issue to the bank and request a replacement. The process may take 10 to 15 minutes, and the bank may ask for verification documents such as an identity card or a driver’s license.
A duplicate passbook is given to customers who have lost or misplaced the original passbook. The only difference is that the duplicate is marked on the first page of the passbook. Once the duplicate passbook is issued, the bank will reject any request made using the original passbook, ensuring that nobody else can use the account passbook.
In summary, a bank passbook is essential for maintaining a secure and organized account, as it serves as a record of transactions and the account holder’s personal information. If a passbook is lost or misplaced, it is crucial to obtain a duplicate passbook to ensure the account is properly maintained and protected.
