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Thursday, August 14, 2025

14/08/25, The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has rolled out a game-changing set of guidelines to help customers easily reactivate dormant bank accounts and claim long-forgotten deposits.

 With over ₹42,000 crore lying unclaimed in inactive accounts across Indian banks, the central bank’s latest move is a significant step toward improving financial access and inclusion.

Here’s what’s new, and why it matters.

Dormant Accounts: What’s the Issue?

Bank accounts become “inoperative” when there’s no customer-initiated activity for two consecutive years. These accounts are often neglected or forgotten, even if they contain funds. The result? Billions of rupees sit untouched while account holders face a maze of red tape to get their money back.

Until now, reactivating such accounts involved visiting the original branch, submitting updated KYC documents, and waiting through verification delays.

The Big Shift: What RBI Has Changed

With the new guidelines announced on June 12, 2025, the RBI has simplified the entire process, giving customers multiple ways to update their KYC and reclaim access to their dormant accounts.

Here's what’s new:

  • Video KYC: Now you can verify your identity from anywhere using your phone or laptop, no branch visit needed.
  • Any Bank Branch Access: Customers can update their KYC at any branch of their bank, not just the one where the account was opened.
  • Business Correspondents (BCs): In rural and remote areas, customers can now update KYC via local BC agents authorized by banks.
  • No Fees Involved: The reactivation process is completely free of charge for customers.

More Customer-Friendly Features

The RBI is not just simplifying the paperwork — it's also making sure people stay informed and in control of their accounts.

  • Alerts and Reminders: Banks must now notify customers via SMS and email when their accounts approach dormancy or if action is needed.
  • Search Unclaimed Deposits Online: The RBI’s Udgam Portal is now integrated with multiple banks, allowing customers to search for forgotten deposits using simple identifiers like PAN or Aadhaar.
  • No More Home Branch Dependence: The days of traveling to your original branch to fix your KYC are over — a relief for people who’ve moved cities or changed jobs.

Why This Matters

The RBI’s move is being welcomed across the banking sector for good reason. It’s practical, timely, and puts the customer first.

Here’s why it’s a big deal:

  • ₹42,000 crore in unclaimed deposits can now be more easily returned to their rightful owners.
  • Senior citizens and rural customers, who often face mobility or access issues, can now reclaim their funds without hassle.
  • Migrants and working professionals who have switched cities can handle everything remotely.

Banks are also on board. Many have already begun upgrading their systems to accommodate video KYC and have started preparing customer awareness drives.

The Road to This Change

These guidelines didn’t arrive overnight. The RBI released a draft circular in May 2025 and invited public feedback through June 6. After evaluating inputs from customers, banks, and experts, the final framework was published on June 12.

This feedback-driven approach ensures the new rules are not only technically sound but also grounded in real-world usability.

How to Reactivate Your Account

Think you might have an inactive account or unclaimed funds? Here’s what you need to do:

  • Check Your Account Status:  Log in to your bank’s app or visit the RBI’s Udgam Portal to search for dormant accounts or unclaimed funds.
  • Update KYC:  Choose the most convenient method: Video KYC, Visit any branch or Meet with a Business Correspondent
  • Request Reactivation: Once your KYC is verified, ask your bank to reactivate the account.
  • Make a Transaction: A small deposit or withdrawal will ensure your account is active again.

Looking Ahead

The RBI’s latest move marks a shift toward smarter, more accessible banking. By cutting down on red tape and using tech to reach people where they are, the central bank is helping millions regain control of their finances.

If you’ve ever left behind a bank account or know someone who has, now is the perfect time to check and reclaim what’s rightfully yours.

Quick Tip: e-KYC has become a key enabler for many banking services, including fast loan approvals from banks and NBFCs. 

source: Insight Daily Hunt

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14/08/25, The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has rolled out a game-changing set of guidelines to help customers easily reactivate dormant bank accounts and claim long-forgotten deposits.

  With over ₹42,000 crore lying unclaimed in inactive accounts across Indian banks, the central bank’s latest move is a significant step tow...