Your Wallet Has Just Been Stolen/Lost – Now What?

Act quickly to minimize the damage to your finances and credit report.

Immediate Steps

1. Call Credit Card Issuers: Cancel all cards immediately. Ask for new account numbers.
2. File a Police Report: You will need a case number for insurance and credit disputes.
3. Contact Credit Bureaus: Call Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion. Place a "Fraud Alert" on your file. This requires lenders to call you for verification before opening new credit in your name.
4. DMV: Report your driver's license as lost/stolen and get a replacement.
5. Social Security: If your SSN card was in the wallet, contact the SSA.

Maintenance

Monitor your credit reports closely for the next 6-12 months. Watch for inquiries or accounts you didn't open.