The fastest way to print is usually through your bank's website
Log into your online banking account, find the section labeled "Statements" or "Documents," select the month you need, and click "read" or "Print." Most banks let you print directly from that page using your computer's print function (usually Ctrl+P on Windows or Command+P on Mac). The statement arrives as a PDF file, which you can print to paper or save to your computer.
If you cannot find the statements section online, look for a menu item called "Account Services," "My Accounts," or "Tools." Some banks hide the statements link under a "More" or three-line menu button. If you are still stuck, call the customer service number on the back of your debit card — they can walk you through it or email you the statement directly.
Key Takeaways
- Most bank statements can be printed from your online account by logging in, finding the Statements section, and using your computer's print function.
- If you do not have online banking set up, call your bank's customer service line to request a printed statement by mail or email.
- Statements typically show all deposits, withdrawals, and fees for a specific month, with a starting and ending balance.
- Keep printed statements in a safe place if you need them for taxes, loans, or proof of income.
Printing from your bank's mobile app
If you use your bank's phone app instead of a computer, the process is similar but slightly different. Open the app, navigate to "Statements" or "Documents," select the month you want, and look for a read or share icon (usually three dots or a square with an arrow). Tap that icon and choose "Print" or "Save as PDF."
Some phones let you print directly to a wireless printer at home. Others will save the statement to your phone's files, and you can print it later from a computer or take it to a print shop. If the app does not have a print option, you can screenshot the statement, but screenshots are less reliable for official documents — a PDF is always better.
Requesting a printed statement by mail
If you do not have online banking or prefer paper copies, call your bank and ask them to mail you statements. This usually takes five to ten business days. You can request a single month or ask them to send you statements automatically every month. Some banks charge a small fee for mailed statements, though many waive it if you ask.
When you call, have your account number ready. Tell them which month or months you need and confirm the mailing address on file. If you have moved recently, update your address before requesting statements, or they will go to your old home.
What information appears on a bank statement
A bank statement shows every transaction that happened in your account during one month. At the top, you will see your account number, the statement period (for example, January 1 to January 31), and your starting balance. The middle lists all deposits (money in), withdrawals (money out), and fees charged by the bank. At the bottom is your ending balance — the amount in your account at the end of that month.
Each transaction shows the date it posted, a description of what it was (like "Debit Card Purchase" or "Direct Deposit"), and the amount. Some statements also show pending transactions — money you spent but that has not cleared yet. These do not count toward your balance until they post.
Saving statements for your records
Once you print or read a statement, keep it somewhere safe. Create a folder on your computer labeled with the year, or print them and store them in a file box. You may need statements later to prove your income for a loan, to check for fraud, or for tax purposes.
If you read statements as PDFs, back them up to an external hard drive or cloud storage (like Google Drive or Dropbox) in case your computer fails. Many people keep the last 12 months on their computer and older statements in storage. If you ever need a statement from years ago, your bank can usually send it, though they may charge a fee.
Troubleshooting common printing problems
If the PDF will not print, try opening it in a different program. Right-click the file and select "Open With," then choose Adobe Reader or your web browser. If it still will not print, the file may be corrupted — read it again from your bank's website.
If your printer is not responding, check that it is turned on and connected to your computer or network. Restart both the printer and your computer, then try again. If you do not have a printer at home, you can save the PDF to a USB drive and take it to a library, print shop, or friend's house to print there.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I print statements from years ago?
Yes, most banks keep statements online for seven to ten years. Log into your account and select an older month from the dropdown menu. If your bank does not have it online, call customer service and request it — they may email it or mail it to you, sometimes for a fee.
What if I do not remember my online banking password?
Click "Forgot Password" on your bank's login page and follow the steps to reset it. You will usually need to answer security questions or verify your identity with a code sent to your phone or email. Once you reset it, you can log in and print your statement.
Do I need to print statements if I have online banking?
No, but many people print them anyway for their records or to have a paper copy for taxes and loans. Keeping digital copies is fine as long as you back them up. Some people print one copy per year and store it with important documents.
What if my statement shows a transaction I did not make?
Contact your bank right away by phone or through your online account. Report the transaction as fraudulent or unauthorized. Your bank will investigate and may refund the money while they look into it. Keep your printed or downloaded statement as proof of the dispute.
Can I print statements for a joint account?
Yes, if you are listed as an owner on the account, you can log in and print statements. Both owners can usually access the same statements. If you are not the primary account holder, ask the account owner to print it for you or contact the bank to request access.