Forgetting something in a taxi can be stressful—especially if you’re in an unfamiliar city or didn’t take down the cab number. From smartphones and wallets to laptops and luggage, personal items are commonly left behind in vehicles. Fortunately, many cities and taxi services have systems in place to help you recover your belongings. Here’s a step-by-step guide to improving your chances of getting your item back quickly and efficiently.

Step 1: Check Your Receipt

Your best chance at recovery starts with your receipt. It typically includes critical information such as the taxi number, license plate, driver’s ID, and time of the trip. If you paid by card, you may also be able to retrieve this information from your bank or digital wallet.

Tip: Always request or take a photo of your receipt before exiting the cab.

Step 2: Try Calling the Taxi Company Directly

If you remember the company’s name or booked through an app, call their customer service line immediately. Provide them with as much information as possible:

• Pick-up and drop-off locations

• Estimated time of travel

• Description of the item

• Description of the taxi (color, number, etc.)

Many large taxi services maintain logs and GPS data that help match trips to specific drivers.

Step 3: Use City-Specific Lost & Found Services

Major cities often operate centralized taxi lost and found departments. For example:

New York City

• NYC’s Taxi & Limousine Commission (TLC) handles reports of lost items through an online form or phone hotline.

• If you have your medallion number or license plate, you can fill out a lost property form.

• Visit the official NYC Taxi Lost & Found page for step-by-step instructions.

Chicago, Los Angeles, and Other Cities

• Each city may have different procedures. Try searching “[City Name] taxi lost and found” for local resources.

• Many airport-based taxi services also have their own lost item portals.

Step 4: If You Booked Through an App, Use In-App Features

Taxi-hailing apps often include a “Report a Lost Item” feature that allows you to contact the driver directly. Popular options like Curb, Arro, and regional apps offer this option within your trip history.

Step 5: Follow Up Within 24–48 Hours

Time matters. Most lost items are recovered within the first two days, especially if you’ve reported them quickly. Be sure to follow up if you haven’t heard back and keep a written record of all communication.

Step 6: File a Police Report for High-Value Items

If you’ve lost something of significant value—like a passport, laptop, or large amount of cash—consider filing a non-emergency police report. This can help with insurance claims or documentation if the item is not recovered.

What Not to Do

• Don’t wait several days to report the item

• Don’t contact multiple taxi companies without knowing which one you used

• Don’t offer a reward without verifying legitimacy

Final Thoughts

Losing an item in a taxi doesn’t have to be a nightmare. With the right steps—especially if you’ve kept your receipt and can recall trip details—you stand a strong chance of retrieving your belongings. A few quick actions can turn a stressful situation into a solvable one.