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How-to · Consumer help

Report an unauthorized debit-card or bank withdrawal

Notify your bank or credit union promptly about charges or withdrawals you did not authorize.

Steps

3 steps
  1. Report the unauthorized transaction immediatelyIf your card, PIN or security code was not lost or stolen, notify the bank no later than 60 days after it sends the statement showing the transaction.
  2. Follow up in writing if requestedIf you first reported by phone and the bank asks for written confirmation, provide it within ten business days to preserve temporary-credit protections during its investigation.
  3. Report a lost card or stolen PIN quicklyNotify your bank or credit union within two business days after discovering a lost or stolen debit card, security code or PIN. Later reporting can increase your liability.
  • How-to

    Appeal a denied National Flood Insurance Program claim

    Consumer help
    1. Ask the insurer about the denialDiscuss overlooked facts, documents or mistakes with your adjuster or insurer without missing the appeal deadline.
    2. Prepare and send the appealUse FEMA’s claim appeal form, explain the disputed issues, and attach the denial letter and supporting evidence. Follow the official page’s mail or email instructions and preserve proof of timely submission.
    CostThere is no fee to file a FEMA appeal.
    FEMA National Flood Insurance Program
  • How-to

    Block identity-theft debts from your credit reports

    Consumer help
    1. Prepare the blocking requestInclude an identity-theft report, proof of identity and a letter identifying fraudulent debts and information. IdentityTheft.gov provides a sample letter.
    2. Submit to each affected reporting companySend the request to the credit reporting companies showing the fraudulent information. Qualifying information must be blocked within four business days after receipt.
    Consumer reporting companies; CFPB guidance
  • How-to

    Challenge a checking-account report that caused a bank denial

    Consumer help
    1. Request the reportFind the reporting company’s name in the bank’s adverse-action notice. Contact that company for a free copy and check for errors.
    2. Dispute errors in writingContact the reporting company in writing. Banks and credit unions that supplied information also have duties to investigate and correct disputed errors; use the CFPB sample letters.
    3. Ask about other account optionsA different institution may use different criteria. Ask about accounts designed to avoid overdraft risks.
    Checking-account reporting companies; CFPB guidance