How to Block Lost ATM or Debit Card and Get a New Card Quickly

IMMEDIATE ACTION REQUIRED: If your card is lost or stolen, every minute counts. Blocking your card immediately activates “Zero Liability” protection, meaning you are not responsible for transactions that happen after you report the loss.

Who needs this service?

• Any Indian citizen whose ATM/Debit card is lost, stolen, or stuck in an ATM machine.

• Citizens noticing unauthorized transactions and needing to secure their bank account instantly.

Required documents

Keep these handy before starting (do not panic if you don’t have the card number):

• Registered Mobile Number (RMN): Crucial for receiving OTPs and sending block requests.

• Bank Account Number: Found in your passbook or chequebook.

• Last 4 digits of lost card: (Optional but helpful).

• ID Proof (Aadhaar/PAN): Required only if visiting the branch offline.

Phase 1: BLOCK Your Card Immediately (Step-by-Step)

Do not wait to visit the bank. Use SMS or Call immediately to block the card 24/7. This stops thieves from using your money.

Option A: The “SMS Block” Method (Fastest)

Send an SMS from your Registered Mobile Number to your bank’s official number.

(Note: If you do not remember the card number, skip to Option B immediately.)

Option B: The “IVR Call” Method (If Card Number Unknown)

If you don’t know your card number, call the official toll-free helpline.

1. Call the number (See “Helplines” section below).

2. Select Language (Hindi/English).

3. Choose “Report Loss of Card” (usually Option 0 or 1).

4. Enter Account Number: The system will ask for your Account Number or DOB instead of the card number.

5. Confirm Block: The system will confirm the block and send an SMS reference number. Save this number.

Phase 2: Apply for a New Card (Online Process)

Once blocked, you need a replacement. You can do this from home via Net Banking or Mobile App.

Method 1: Via Mobile Banking App (Easiest)

(Steps applicable for SBI YONO, HDFC MobileBanking, iMobile Pay, etc.)

1. Login to your bank’s official app (e.g., YONO SBI, HDFC Bank App).

2. Go to “Services” or “Cards” Section:

   • SBI: Menu → Service Request → ATM/Debit Card.

   • HDFC: Menu → Pay → Cards → Debit Cards.

   • ICICI: Services → Card Services → Reissue Debit Card.

3. Select “Request New / Reissue”:

   • Choose the account number linked to the lost card.

   • Select the Type of Card (e.g., Rupay, Visa, MasterCard). Tip: Rupay cards often have lower annual fees.

4. Verify Address: The screen will show your registered address. Ensure it is correct as the card will be delivered here.

5. Enter OTP: Confirm the request with the OTP sent to your mobile.

6. Success: You will see a “Ticket Number” or “Service Request Number”. Screenshot this.

Method 2: Via Internet Banking (Desktop)

1. Go to Official Portal: (e.g., onlinesbi.sbi, netbanking.hdfcbank.com).

2. Login: Enter Username and Password.

3. Navigate to e-Services:

   • Look for “ATM Card Services” or “Debit Card Operations”.

4. Click “Request ATM/Debit Card”:

   • Select the account.

   • Choose “Issue New Card”.

   • Type the Name you want printed on the card.

5. Submit: Authenticate using Profile Password or OTP.

Offline Process (Branch Visit)

If you do not have Net Banking or your mobile number is lost, you must visit the branch.

Where to go: Your home branch (preferred) or any nearest branch of your bank.

Required Steps:

1. Carry ID Proof: Original Aadhaar Card or PAN Card.

2. Ask for “Service Request Form”: Do not write a plain letter; most banks have a specific form for “Card Block & Reissue”.

3. Fill Details:

   • Tick “Block Old Card” (Reason: Lost/Stolen).

   • Tick “Issue New Card”.

   • Fill in Account Number and Mobile Number.

4. Submit & Get Acknowledge: The officer will process it immediately. Ask for a stamped acknowledgement slip.

How to Check Status / Track Application

After applying, the new card usually takes 7–14 working days to reach your home via India Post (Speed Post).

1. Track via Bank Portal:

• SBI: Login to onlinesbi.sbi → e-Services → ATM Card Services → Request/Track Debit Card.

• HDFC/ICICI: Check the “Service Requests” section in the mobile app.

2. Track via India Post:

• Once dispatched, the bank will SMS you a Speed Post Tracking Number (starts with E or J, ends with IN).

• Visit: India Post Tracking

• Enter the number to see exactly where your card has reached.

Common Problems and Solutions

Official Helpline Numbers (24/7)

Use these numbers to block cards or check status. Do not Google “Bank Customer Care” randomly to avoid scams.

Next Step for You: If you have just blocked your card, log in to your banking app now and check your “Mini Statement” for the last 5 transactions. If you see any transaction you didn’t make, report it to the helpline on the same call.

This information is from official sources as of January 2026. Always verify on your bank’s official portal for the latest updates.