Consumer Complaint Time Limit: Section 69 and Late Filing
You have two years to file a consumer complaint. If you are late, a Commission can still hear you in some cases. Here is how.
The consumer complaint time limit is two years. Section 69 of the Consumer Protection Act, 2019 says a complaint must be filed within two years from the date the cause of action arose. Many good complaints are lost because people wait. This guide explains the rule, the exception for late filing, and how to prepare if you are past the deadline.
The two year rule
Under Section 69(1), a complaint must be filed with the District, State or National Commission within two years from the date on which the cause of action has arisen. The cause of action is the event that gave you the right to complain. It could be the day a refund was refused, the day a product failed, or the day an insurer rejected a claim.
When does the clock start?
Count from the event, and write the date down. Some examples: a flight cancelled on 10 March, a refund finally refused on 5 May, or a claim rejected by letter on 20 June. Each is a possible starting point, and which one applies depends on the facts. Where a problem keeps going, for example a builder keeps failing to give possession, people sometimes argue that the cause of action is continuing. Whether that argument works is for the Commission to decide, so do not rely on it.
Does a notice or an email stop the clock?
No. Sending a letter, an email or a legal notice does not extend the two years. Do not assume that ongoing talks with the company protect your right to file.
Late filing and condonation of delay
Section 69(2) lets a Commission entertain a complaint after two years if you satisfy it that you had sufficient cause for not filing earlier. The Commission must record its reasons for condoning the delay. This is the Commission's decision, and nothing guarantees it will be accepted.
What can count as sufficient cause depends on the facts. Examples people raise include serious illness, being in correspondence with the company, or approaching a wrong forum in good faith. Each needs to be explained with dates and proof.
How to prepare a late complaint
If you are past the limit:
- Write a clear timeline from the cause of action to today.
- Explain each gap by the event that bounds it, such as an illness, a reply from the company, or a hospital stay. Do not guess at dates.
- Attach proof for each reason.
- File an application for condonation of delay along with the complaint.
Jagrik AI has a late filing flow in its tools chat that helps you draft the application for condonation and organize the timeline. It prepares the paperwork. Whether the Commission accepts the delay is up to the Commission.
If you are not late yet
Check your date today. If you are within a few months, file soon. Read the steps in e-Daakhil to e-Jagriti and prepare your documents with our consumer complaint generator guide. Fees are in consumer court fees.
The consumer complaint time limit rewards the person who acts early, so write down your cause of action date today.
Frequently asked questions
What is the time limit for a consumer complaint?
Two years from when the cause of action arose, under Section 69.
Can I file after two years?
Possibly. You must show sufficient cause, and the Commission must record its reasons for accepting the delay.
When does the two years start?
From the cause of action, for example the day the refund was refused. A continuing default may be argued differently. The Commission decides.
Does sending a legal notice stop the clock?
No. Do not rely on notices or emails to extend the period.
Can Jagrik AI help with a late complaint?
It helps you prepare the application and documents. Whether the delay is condoned is the Commission's decision.
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Ready to file? Start your complaint with Jagrik AI or read our consumer complaint guide for the full walkthrough.
This is general information, not legal advice. Jagrik AI is an independent tool, not operated by or affiliated with the Government of India. It helps you prepare, and does not replace a lawyer for complex cases.