If your credit, ATM, or debit card is lost or stolen, the law limits your liability for unauthorized charges. Your protection against unauthorized charges depends on the type of card — and when you report the loss.
Report Loss or Theft Immediately
Acting fast limits your liability for charges you didn’t authorize. Report the loss or theft of your card to the card issuer as quickly as possible. Many companies have toll-free numbers and 24-hour service for such emergencies. Once you report the loss of your ATM or debit card, the law says you cannot be held liable for unauthorized transfers that occur after that time.
Follow up with a letter or email. Include your account number, the date and time when you noticed your card was missing, and when you first reported the loss.
Check your card statement carefully for transactions you didn’t make. Report these transactions to the card issuer as quickly as possible. Be sure to send the letter to the address provided for billing errors.If your credit, ATM, or debit card is lost or stolen, the law limits your liability for unauthorized charges. Your protection against unauthorized charges depends on the type of card — and when you report the loss.