Mumbai: Many people are unaware that money left in old bank accounts can still be reclaimed, even after years of inactivity. According to the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), accounts that have been dormant for 10 years or more often have their funds transferred to the Depositor Education and Awareness (DEA) Fund. However, the good news is that depositors, or their family members, can still claim these funds along with any interest that may have accrued.
How to Check and Claim Your Money
The RBI has made the process of recovering unclaimed deposits straightforward. Account holders can start by checking for unclaimed deposits online through the RBI’s official portal at https://udgam.rbi.org.in. After identifying their accounts, depositors need to visit any branch of their respective banks to submit KYC documents such as Aadhaar, Passport, Voter ID, or Driving License. Once the verification process is complete, the bank will release the funds back to the account holder.
Special Camps for Easier Access
To encourage citizens to reclaim their unclaimed deposits, banks will be conducting special camps between October and December 2025. These camps aim to simplify the process, provide assistance with documentation, and ensure that depositors are aware of their rights and the steps needed to access their funds. The RBI emphasizes vigilance and awareness, urging the public to check for dormant accounts and claim their money promptly.
RBI’s Message
The RBI reiterates: “Jankaar Baniye, Satark Rahiye!” — stay informed and alert. With simple online tools and branch-level support, recovering forgotten money has become easier than ever, ensuring depositors can safely reclaim their funds and benefit from the interest accrued over time.
