N
The Daily Insight Hub

What should you do if your debit credit card is lost or stolen Why?

Author

Andrew Campbell

Updated on February 18, 2026

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, federal law says you cannot be held liable for unauthorized transfers that occur after that time.

What happens if someone steals your credit card?

Your Responsibility for Charges on a Stolen Credit Card Under the FCBA, you won’t be held liable for any charges if you report the theft before any fraudulent charges are made on your account. However, you could be liable for up to $50 if the thief uses your stolen credit card before you report the theft.

What are two things you can do if your credit card is stolen?

It’s best to report a lost credit card as soon as you notice it’s missing, though some credit card issuers are more forgiving than others. You can call the number on the back of your card to contact your issuer. You may also need to follow up with a certified letter, especially if you need to dispute a charge.

Does a lost or stolen card affect credit?

Replacing a lost or stolen credit card does not hurt your credit score, as the account age and other information is simply transferred to a new account. Most credit card issuers will not hold the cardholder responsible for fraudulent charges. Protecting your credit can be done by reviewing your credit report regularly.

How much am I responsible for if my debit card is stolen?

The Fair Credit Billing Act (FCBA) and the Electronic Fund Transfer Act (EFTA) offer protection if your credit, ATM, or debit cards are lost or stolen. Under the FCBA, your liability for unauthorized use of your credit card tops out at $50.

What to do if your debit card is lost or stolen?

For debit cards, a cardholder’s liability for unauthorized use depends on how quickly he or she reports the loss or theft. Here’s what you should do if your credit cards are lost or stolen: 1. Contact TransUnion, Equifax, or Experian, and place a fraud alert on your credit report.

What should I do if my Social Security card is stolen?

However, if your wallet is stolen and your Social Security card was inside (not something we recommend), to report the fraudulent use to the credit reporting agencies and also you may want to freeze your credit reports and create a fraud alert as a precaution. What Happens After I Report My Lost Card?

What should I do if I Lose my credit card?

If you have to deal with lost credit cards or stolen credit cards, you’ll be very thankful that you took these steps in advance. Also, remember that federal law dictates that a cardholder’s maximum liability for unauthorized use is $50 per credit card.

What happens if I report my credit card stolen?

If you report the card stolen before any charges are made, the FCBA says you’re not responsible for any of the charges. You also have no liability if someone stole your credit card number, but not the actual card. Most credit card companies offer $0 liability across the board, in the interest of customer service.