Money is missing from your bank or card account. That can feel confusing and stressful. There are sensible first steps you can take right away.

Why This Situation Matters

Missing money can interrupt your bills and daily plans. It can also take time to fix. Checking early may make it easier to find out what happened and reduce hassle.

What to Do Immediately

1. Check recent transactions. Log into your account and look at the most recent entries and pending items.
2. Look for alerts or messages. Check your bank app, email, and text messages for notices about charges or holds.
3. Review other linked accounts. Check any connected accounts or cards to see if money moved between them.
4. Secure your login. Change your online banking password and sign out of other devices if that is easy to do.
5. Contact your bank or card issuer. Use the official phone number or in-app support to report the missing amount and ask what they recommend next.

Things to Avoid

• Don’t share login details. Never give your password or one-time codes to anyone who contacts you.
• Don’t rush large transfers. Moving money quickly may make it harder to trace transactions.
• Don’t post sensitive details. Avoid sharing account numbers or transaction images on social media.
• Don’t delete records. Keep emails, messages, and statements that relate to the missing funds.

What to Do Next

Keep watching your account for changes over the next few days. Follow any steps the bank suggests, such as opening a dispute or providing transaction details. Make a note of dates, amounts, and any reference numbers. Check with anyone who has access to the account, such as joint account holders or authorized users. You may also want to review upcoming automatic payments and update them if needed.

When to Get Professional Help

Professional help may be appropriate if the issue continues, gets worse, or suggests fraud. Contact your bank’s fraud or dispute team first. You may also choose to speak with your card issuer, a consumer protection office, or local law enforcement if identity theft is suspected. A financial advisor or accountant may help if the situation affects bills or budgeting.

Quick Summary

• Stay calm and check recent transactions and alerts.
• Secure your login and keep records of what you find.
• Contact your bank through official channels and follow their advice.
• Seek professional help if the problem continues or looks like fraud.

About the Author

Situation Guide Editorial Team

The Situation Guide editorial team writes clear, practical guides for common real-world situations. Content focuses on safe first steps, plain-language explanations, and helping readers recognise when professional help may be appropriate. This guide provides general information only and is not a substitute for personalised professional advice. Specific circumstances can vary.