What is a Bank Statement? Definition, Uses & Online Access

Definition of Bank Statement:

The bank statement is a monthly record published by a bank for an account holder that gives a detailed account of all the transactions that have taken place on a particular bank account. This statement is a general record that indicates what has been done with the finances attached to the account within a specific period, often a month. It presents the account’s financial history through both inflows and outflows of funds.

How to Get a Bank Statement Online?

In the digital age, accessing a bank statement has become more convenient through online banking platforms. Here’s a simplified guide on how to obtain a bank statement online:

1. Log into Online Banking: Now, using the login details, access your bank’s online portal. Such include entering your login credentials or other security features such as two-factor authentication.
2. Navigate to the Statements Section: After logging in, go to the statements section of your account. This can be referred to as “Statements,” “Account Summary” or something similar to what is available from the bank’s interface.
3. Select the Desired Period: In the statements part, select the period in which you wish to see the statement. Most online banking platforms provide you with an option to pick months or choose a custom date range.
4. Download or View Online: Once the appropriate time range is chosen, most banks will offer to either download the statement in a . PDF format or view it directly on their online portal. Either method can be selected based on the purpose.
5. Review and Verify: Once the statement is visible, check the transaction details, the account balance, and all the other information. This step helps to ensure accuracy and that you note any discrepancies or unauthorized transactions.

What is a Bank Statement?

A Bank statement is a detailed form produced by the bank for an account holder, usually at the end of every month. It gives an overall picture of all financial transactions linked to a particular banking account over a given time. This includes deposits, withdrawals, purchases, fees and any other activities affecting the balance of an account. The bank statement serves as a clear record that provides information about the history of the account’s financial performance and facilitates planning money matters.

Where Do I Get a Bank Statement?

Acquiring a bank statement is a straightforward process, and there are several ways to obtain it:

1. Paper Statements: The statements for a particular bank account are normally sent through regular posts to the registered address of the account holder periodically often monthly. Through these physical documents, we have a physical record of financial activities.
2. ATM Printouts: Many banks offer the option to print a mini statement or view recent transactions at their ATMs. This provides a quick snapshot of recent account activity.
3. Bank Branch: An account holder can always visit the branch of the bank where the account is held and ask for a hard copy of the bank statement. This may also be helpful to those who prefer personal one-on-one meetings.
4. Online Banking: The digital age has brought online banking that offers the use of bank statements from the internet. Statement access is provided through online banking portals which can be accessed by account holders through logging in to their online banking accounts. This approach allows the user to have access to financial information in real-time.
5. Mobile Banking Apps: By using bank apps on mobile devices such as smartphones and tablets, mobile banking apps provide users with their bank statements. This also makes it mobile, which increases its convenience.
6. Email Statements: In other banks, it is possible to receive bank statements through e-mail. Customers can choose to have their statements electronically posted in their email box for their safekeeping.
   

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