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What happens to a bank account that is not used for years?
Updated · CardKhoj Editorial Team
Short answer
If there is no customer-initiated transaction for two years, a savings account is classified as inoperative and some services are blocked. After ten years without activity, the balance is transferred to the RBI's Depositor Education and Awareness (DEA) Fund. Your money is never lost — you or your heirs can claim it with interest at any time.
Timeline
| Inactivity | Status |
|---|---|
| 2 years | Inoperative — online and debit card access may be blocked |
| 10 years | Unclaimed — balance moved to the DEA Fund, still claimable |
How to reactivate
- Visit any branch of the bank (many now allow video KYC).
- Submit fresh KYC documents — PAN and Aadhaar.
- Make a small deposit or withdrawal.
Finding unclaimed deposits
Search across banks on RBI's UDGAM portal using your name and PAN or date of birth, then claim the amount from the bank concerned.
This answer is general information, not personalised financial or tax advice. Rules, rates and limits change — confirm with your bank, the RBI or a qualified adviser before making decisions.