I Lost My Wallet. What Should I Do?

Losing a wallet can be concerning, as it often contains identification and financial tools. This guide offers an actionable path to protect your finances and identity, and replace important documents.

Immediate Steps to Protect Your Finances

When your wallet is missing, securing financial accounts is the most pressing concern. Contact your banks and credit card companies promptly. Provide account numbers, recent transaction details, and personal identification to verify your identity. Request they immediately cancel lost cards and issue new ones with different account numbers to prevent unauthorized use. Many financial institutions allow temporary card freezes via mobile apps if you suspect the wallet might be found shortly.

Following this, place a fraud alert with one of the three major credit bureaus: Equifax, Experian, or TransUnion. A fraud alert signals to lenders that your identity may be compromised, requiring extra verification before extending credit. When you contact one bureau, they are legally obligated to notify the other two, ensuring the alert is applied across all your credit files. Be prepared to provide your full name, address, Social Security number, and date of birth to initiate this alert. This initial fraud alert typically lasts for one year and helps prevent new accounts from being opened in your name.

Reporting the Loss Officially

Formal reporting is the next step after securing finances. Filing a police report creates an official record of the incident, even if theft is not suspected. This report can serve as documentation for insurance claims, disputing fraudulent charges, or replacing certain documents. When contacting the police, provide details such as the approximate time and location of the loss, and a list of wallet contents. Obtain a copy of the police report or the report number for your records.

Report the loss to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) through IdentityTheft.gov. This online resource guides you through creating an official Identity Theft Report. This report can simplify disputing fraudulent accounts or charges, as it provides a recognized record of the incident. The FTC website also offers personalized recovery plans.

Replacing Your Important Documents

After securing financial accounts and filing reports, replace important documents. Contact your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or equivalent agency for a driver’s license or state identification card. To obtain a replacement, provide proof of identity (e.g., birth certificate, passport), proof of residency, and possibly existing documentation like a previous driver’s license number. Some states allow online replacement, while others may require an in-person visit.

Contact the Social Security Administration (SSA) to replace a Social Security card. If your Social Security card was lost, complete Form SS-5, Application for a Social Security Card. Provide original documents proving your identity and U.S. citizenship or immigration status. The SSA limits replacements to three cards per year and ten cards in a lifetime.

Contact your insurance provider for health insurance cards. Most providers can quickly issue a new card, and many can provide temporary digital cards or policy numbers for immediate use. For other common cards like library, retail loyalty, or transit passes, contact the issuing organization. These entities can usually replace cards without extensive documentation, often requiring only your name and account number.

Long-Term Security Measures

After managing the immediate aftermath, maintain vigilance for long-term security. Regularly check your credit reports. You are entitled to a free copy of your credit report from each of the three major credit bureaus—Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion—once every 12 months through AnnualCreditReport.com. Look for unfamiliar accounts, inquiries, or incorrect personal information that could signal identity theft.

Consistently review all bank and credit card statements. Scrutinize every transaction for unauthorized activity, even small charges, as these can be test transactions by fraudsters. Promptly report any suspicious entries to your financial institution.

Consider placing a credit freeze with each of the three credit bureaus. Unlike a fraud alert, a credit freeze prevents new credit from being opened in your name by restricting access to your credit file unless you temporarily lift the freeze. This offers stronger protection against identity theft. To place a freeze, contact each bureau individually; you will receive a PIN or password to temporarily lift or permanently remove the freeze. Some individuals also opt for identity theft protection services, which offer continuous monitoring and alerts for potential misuse.