So you though your credit card will never be stolen….think again. Today a credit card being stolen or getting lost is not an uncommon. Here are some steps that you should follow when your credit card is stolen.

The first and the most important thing that you should do are take copies of your credit card. Always have the photo copy of both the front and the back side of the credit card kept in a safe place. Write the toll-free number of the credit card company next to the credit card. Some companies change their toll-free number; therefore it is important that you keep your file updated. Even after you have contacted the credit card company by phone, it is important that you send them a letter. This letter should contain the credit card number, the date when your credit card is stolen, details on conversation on the phone and the last authorized tranaction entered by you.

Once you find out that your card is stolen call the credit card company to report the theft as soon as possible. Call the company at their toll-free number. You can call these companies any time as most companies are available throughout the day. Carefully note down the name of the person that you have spoken to. Also write down in brief the details of the conversation that you had with the company. If you find it difficult to call each company individually, you can register with credit card registration service. Once you have registered you just have to make one to report for all the cards stolen. Some registrars will also arrange for replacement of the credit card. There are many registrars in the market and it will do you good if you compare the price charged by them. It is also important that you keep the registrar updated about any changes that you to your credit card.

After you have reported the theft to credit card company, next call national credit reporting agencies. Call all the three agencies and ask them to attach a fraud alert on your credit card. Here are the latest numbers that I have of the agencies

Equifax: 1-800-525-6285

Experian: 1-888-397-3742

TransUnion: 1-800-680-7289

Once all the agencies are informed, call the cops in the jurisdiction where your credit card has been stolen to report details of the theft.

It is unfortunate that your credit card(s) is stolen, but always remember to keep your records updated and inform the company and police of the theft. This will help in mitigating your loss and recovering your credit card.