Need a consumer complaint format? This page explains when you need it, what it must contain and how to make it valid, step by step. You can also get CIVL’s ready-to-use consumer complaint format as an editable Word file and PDF.
Quick answer
If a product is defective or a service is deficient, you can file a consumer complaint under the Consumer Protection Act, 2019, online on the e-Jagriti portal or at the District Commission. File within 2 years. There is no fee for claims up to ₹5 lakh, and you do not need a lawyer.
Read the full guide: How to file a consumer complaint online on e-Jagriti
What is a consumer complaint?
A consumer complaint is a written complaint to a Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission asking for a refund, replacement, repair or compensation. The District Commission hears claims up to ₹50 lakh, the State Commission above ₹50 lakh and up to ₹2 crore, and the National Commission above ₹2 crore.
You can file where you live or work (Section 34), not only where the seller is. Online filing, earlier done on e-Daakhil, now happens on the e-Jagriti portal of the Department of Consumer Affairs.
When you need it
- A product is defective and the seller or manufacturer refuses to repair, replace or refund.
- A service (bank, insurer, airline, telecom, hospital, builder, courier, e-commerce site) was deficient.
- You were charged more than the displayed price or misled by an advertisement.
- An insurance claim was wrongly rejected, or a builder has delayed possession.
Stamp duty, notarisation and registration
| Requirement | What applies | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Stamp paper / e-stamp | Not needed | The complaint is on plain paper; the supporting affidavit may need stamp paper in some states. |
| Notarisation | Affidavit only | The complaint is supported by an affidavit sworn before a notary or oath commissioner. |
| Fee | Nil up to ₹5 lakh | Small fees apply above ₹5 lakh, rising by claim value. |
| Witnesses | Not needed | Attach documents as numbered annexures. |
Fees and pecuniary limits are set by central rules and apply across India. Check the current fee table on e-Jagriti before filing.
What the consumer complaint must contain
- Your name and address, and the name and address of each opposite party (seller, manufacturer, service provider).
- Facts in date order: what you bought, when, for how much, and what went wrong.
- Your complaints to the seller and their responses, including the notice you sent.
- Why the Commission has jurisdiction: value of the claim and your place of residence or work.
- Relief claimed: refund, replacement, compensation, costs, with amounts.
- Statement that the complaint is within two years.
- Verification, supporting affidavit and list of documents.
How to make it valid: step by step
- Send a notice first. Write to the seller or service provider asking them to fix the problem; it is not compulsory but helps.
- Work out the claim value. Price paid plus compensation claimed decides the Commission and the fee.
- Fill in the format. Write facts clearly and number your documents.
- File on e-Jagriti. Register, upload the complaint, affidavit and documents, and pay any fee online. You can also file in person.
- Attend the admission hearing. The Commission decides whether to admit the complaint and then issues notice to the other side.
- Follow the case. Track hearings online; mediation may be offered.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Missing the 2-year limit. File within two years of the problem arising, or explain the delay with a condonation application.
- Claiming huge compensation. An inflated claim can push the case to a higher Commission and raise fees.
- Wrong opposite party. Name both the seller and the manufacturer or service provider where relevant.
- No documents. Attach the bill, warranty, messages and photos.
- Commercial purchase. Goods bought for resale or commercial purposes are generally not covered.
CIVL format
Get the ready-to-use consumer complaint format
- Editable Word file and a print-ready PDF
- Notes on how to fill every blank
- Supporting affidavit and index of documents
- Pre-complaint notice to the seller
- Delivered to your email after payment
Price: ₹99 · Coming soon
Frequently asked questions
What is the time limit to file a consumer complaint?
Two years from the date the cause of action arose (Section 69). Late complaints need a reason for delay.
What is the fee for a consumer complaint?
Nil for claims up to ₹5 lakh at the District Commission. Above that, a fee applies on a slab basis.
Can I file a consumer complaint online?
Yes, on the e-Jagriti portal, which has replaced e-Daakhil.
Do I need a lawyer?
No. You can file and argue the complaint yourself.
What is the National Consumer Helpline?
A free government helpline (1915) that tries to resolve complaints with companies before you go to a Commission.
Where can I get a ready-to-use consumer complaint format?
CIVL’s consumer complaint format comes as an editable Word file and a print-ready PDF, with notes on filling every blank and checking your state’s rules. Use the button above to be told when it is available.