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In today's digital world, while net banking and mobile apps are popular, bank passbooks still hold critical importance for millions. A passbook contains key account information — from your name, address, and account number to a detailed record of every transaction. But what if your passbook is lost or stolen? Don’t worry — you can apply for a duplicate passbook, but there’s an important legal condition you must fulfill first.

🧾 Why Is the Bank Passbook Important?

• It serves as a physical record of all your banking transactions.

• It includes your account number, address, and bank details.

• Often required as a proof of address or income in official work.

So, losing your passbook can be concerning — but there is a process to safely retrieve a new one.

🛑 Step 1: File a Police Complaint First

Before approaching your bank, your first action should be to lodge a complaint at your nearest police station.

• Reason: Banks require proof that your passbook is genuinely lost or stolen.

• Ask for a receipt or copy of the written complaint/FIR — this will be required during the bank application.

This step helps prevent any unauthorized misuse of your passbook and ensures legal safety.

🏦 Step 2: Inform Your Bank

Once you have the FIR copy:

• Visit your home branch (the branch where you opened your account).

• Inform the bank officer about the loss/theft.

• Request an application form for a duplicate passbook.

📝 Step 3: Submit the Required Documents

To get a duplicate passbook, you'll need to:

• Fill the duplicate passbook request form

• Submit a copy of the FIR/complaint

• Attach valid ID proof (Aadhaar, PAN, Voter ID, etc.)

• Provide address proof if requested

• Some banks may also charge a nominal fee for re-issuance

Once all documents are verified, the branch manager will approve your request and a duplicate passbook will be issued.

📌 Important Points to Remember:

• Only the account holder can apply for a duplicate passbook.

• In case of joint accounts, both holders may be required to sign.

• Always cross-check your account details after receiving the new passbook.

• Some banks may allow you to apply online or via customer care, but visiting the branch is often required for document verification.

✅ Final Takeaway

Losing your passbook isn’t the end of the world — but the process of getting a duplicate is not automatic. The FIR or police complaint copy is a mandatory condition, and you must personally visit your branch with proper ID documents.

Stay cautious and report a lost passbook immediately to avoid any risk of misuse.