What Happens When an ATM Card is Undelivered and Returned to the Bank
When an ATM card is undelivered and returned to the bank, several processes are initiated to resolve the issue and ensure customer satisfaction. This guide explains the typical steps taken and offers advice on how to handle such situations.
Return to Bank
Upon receiving the undelivered card, the bank will either send it back to the issuing bank or financial institution. This return could be due to various reasons such as an incorrect address, failure to collect the card, or the recipient being unavailable.
Notification
The bank may notify the account holder about the undelivered card through various mediums such as email, SMS, or postal mail. The notification may provide reasons for the card's return and instructions for proceeding with reissuance.
Reissue Process
To resolve the situation, the account holder may need to request a reissue of the card. This can often be completed online through the bank's app or by contacting customer service.
Verification
The bank will verify the account holder's identity and address to ensure that the new card is sent to the correct location. This step is crucial in preventing fraudulent activity and ensuring the protection of the customer's financial information.
New Card Issuance
Once the verification is complete, the bank will issue a new card. This new card will be sent to the updated or confirmed address, typically within a short period, usually within a week or so, depending on the bank's policies.
Card Activation
Upon receiving the new card, the account holder will need to activate it. Activation instructions will usually be provided with the card, and completing these steps will enable the card to be used for financial transactions.
Security Measures
If the card was returned due to suspected fraud or other issues, the bank may take additional security measures such as monitoring the account for unusual activity. These measures help to ensure the safety of the customer's finances and facilitate a quicker resolution of any issues.
What to Do if Your ATM Card is Undelivered
Usually, banks send the welcome kit, including the ATM card, within seven working days to the address provided during account opening. However, delays can occur due to errors in entering your address or other factors.
It's crucial to act promptly in such situations. If you haven't contacted your bank branch or personnel, do so immediately and verify if the correspondence address provided matches the bank's database. If there is a delay in mail delivery, consider writing an application before visiting the branch. Present all necessary proof and communication details to ensure the issue is addressed promptly.
Additionally, it's possible that the courier with the debit card may have found your house locked and left the card at the bank branch. Therefore, it's recommended to visit the bank branch immediately and contact the person who assisted in opening the account.