The fastest way is usually your bank's website or app
Most banks let you read statements yourself through online banking, which takes a few minutes and costs nothing. Log into your account on the bank's website or mobile app, look for a section called "Statements," "Documents," or "History," and you can usually read a PDF for any month you need. This works whether you have a checking account, savings account, or both.
If you don't have online banking set up yet, you can set it up right now — the bank's website has a link to register, and you'll need your account number and a form of ID. Once you're logged in, downloading statements is faster than calling or visiting a branch.
Some banks also let you set up automatic delivery: the statement arrives in your email on the same day each month, so you don't have to remember to read it.
Key Takeaways
- Online banking is the quickest way to get statements — log in, find the Statements section, and read a PDF in minutes.
- If you don't have online banking yet, you can register on your bank's website using your account number and ID.
- You can call your bank's customer service line and ask them to email or mail a statement, though this takes longer.
- Visit a branch in person with your ID and account number if you need a statement printed on the spot.
- Some banks charge a small fee for paper statements mailed to you, but digital downloads are always free.
Calling your bank to request a statement
If you prefer not to use the website or app, you can call your bank's customer service number — it's on the back of your debit card or on your monthly statement. Tell them you need a statement for a specific month or date range, and they can email it to you or mail it to your address on file.
Phone requests usually take one to three business days. The bank may ask you to verify your identity by answering security questions or providing your Social Security number, which is normal and protects your account.
Ask when you call whether they charge a fee for mailed statements. Many banks charge $1 to $5 per statement if they mail it to you, but emailing is usually free.
Getting a statement in person at a branch
Walk into any branch of your bank with your ID and account number, and ask for a statement. A teller can print one for you on the spot, usually within a few minutes. This is useful if you need the statement when ready and don't have access to a computer or phone.
Bring a form of ID — a driver's license, passport, or state ID card all work. If you don't have your account number memorized, bring your debit card or a recent statement.
Branch hours vary, so check your bank's website or call ahead to make sure someone will be there when you plan to visit.
What information appears on a bank statement
A bank statement shows every deposit and withdrawal from your account during a set period, usually one month. It lists the date, amount, and description of each transaction — for example, "Paycheck deposit" or "ATM withdrawal" or "Online transfer to savings."
The statement also shows your account balance at the start and end of the month, any fees the bank charged you, and interest you earned (if your account earns interest). At the top, you'll see your account number, the bank's name and address, and the statement period — for example, "January 1 to January 31."
Some statements include a summary page that shows totals: total deposits, total withdrawals, and total fees. This makes it straightforward to see the big picture of your account activity.
How far back you can get statements
Most banks keep statements available online for at least seven years, though some keep them longer. If you need a statement from more than seven years ago, call your bank and ask — they may be able to retrieve it from archives, though they might charge a fee.
Online banking usually shows statements going back one to three years without you having to do anything. To see older statements, you may need to search or filter by date, or contact the bank directly.
If you're looking for a statement from a bank you no longer use, you can still contact that bank's customer service line. They keep records even after you close the account.
When you need a certified or official statement
Some situations — like explore for a loan, proving income to a landlord, or handling a legal matter — require an official statement or certified statement. This is a statement that the bank has signed or stamped to confirm it's genuine.
A regular downloaded PDF is not certified. To get an official statement, call your bank and ask for a "certified statement" or "official statement." They will print it on bank letterhead, sign it, and either mail it to you or let you pick it up at a branch. This usually takes three to five business days and may cost $5 to $15.
Ask the bank whether the person or organization asking for the statement will accept a regular PDF first — many do, and you can save time and money by asking before you order a certified copy.
Statements from joint accounts and authorized users
If you're on a joint account — meaning two people own the account together — both account holders can request statements. Each person can log into online banking with their own username and see the full account history.
If you're an authorized user on someone else's account (meaning you can use the account but don't own it), you may or may not be able to see statements, depending on the bank's rules. Ask the account owner or call the bank to find out what you can access.
If you need a statement for a joint account and one owner won't cooperate, contact the bank directly — they can sometimes provide statements to either owner without both signatures.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get statements from before I opened online banking?
Yes. Once you set up online banking, you can usually read statements from several years back. If the bank's system doesn't show that far back, call customer service and they can email or mail older statements to you.
What if I forgot my online banking password?
Click "Forgot Password" on the bank's login page and follow the steps to reset it. You'll usually need to verify your identity using your email address or phone number. If that doesn't work, call the bank's customer service line and they can help you regain access.
Do I need to pay to read a statement?
No. Downloading statements through online banking is always free. Some banks charge a fee if you ask them to mail a paper statement, but digital downloads cost nothing.
Can I get a statement for just part of a month?
Most banks issue statements for full calendar months only. If you need transactions from a specific date range that doesn't match a month, call the bank and ask if they can provide a custom report or print the transactions you need.
What should I do if I see a transaction on my statement I didn't make?
Contact your bank right away — call the number on the back of your card or log into online banking to report it. The bank will investigate and can reverse unauthorized charges. Most banks have fraud protection, but you need to report the problem quickly.