The fastest way in is through Wells Fargo's website or mobile app
You can reach your Wells Fargo savings account in three ways: online through wellsfargo.com, through the Wells Fargo mobile app, or by walking into a branch with your ID. Most people use the website or app because they work 24/7 and show your balance and transaction history when ready. The mobile app is fastest if you just need to check your balance or transfer money between your own accounts.
To log in online or on the app, you'll need your username and password. If you don't have these yet, you can create them during your first login by entering your Social Security number, account number, and other identifying information. Wells Fargo will verify your identity before letting you set up access.
If you've forgotten your password, both the website and app have a "Forgot username or password?" link on the login screen. You'll answer security questions or verify your identity through a code sent to your phone or email, then create a new password. This usually takes a few minutes.
Key Takeaways
- You can access your savings account through wellsfargo.com, the Wells Fargo mobile app, or by visiting a branch in person with your ID.
- First-time login requires your Social Security number, account number, and answers to security questions so Wells Fargo can verify who you are.
- Once logged in, you can view your balance, transaction history, transfer money between accounts, and set up alerts for low balances or large withdrawals.
- If you forget your password, use the "Forgot username or password?" link and verify your identity through your phone number or email address.
What you can do once you're logged in
After you log in, your savings account dashboard shows your current balance, recent transactions, and interest earned. You can see how much money moved in and out, when each transaction posted, and what the balance was on any given day. This history usually goes back several months.
From the dashboard, you can transfer money to another Wells Fargo account you own, set up automatic transfers on a schedule, or move money to an external bank account if you've linked one. You can also set up alerts—for example, a text message when your balance drops below a certain amount, or an email when a large withdrawal happens.
If you need to deposit a check, the Wells Fargo mobile app has a mobile check deposit feature. You photograph the front and back of the check, enter the amount, and submit it. The funds usually appear in your account within one business day.
Setting up two-factor authentication for security
Wells Fargo offers two-factor authentication, which adds a second step to logging in. After you enter your password, you receive a code on your phone or email and must enter it before you can access your account. This makes it much harder for someone else to log in even if they know your password.
To turn this on, go to your account settings (usually labeled "Security" or "Profile") and look for "Two-Factor Authentication" or "Extra Security." Wells Fargo will ask whether you want codes sent by text message or email, and you can choose both. You'll set this up once, and then every time you log in from a new device, you'll get a code to enter.
If you lose access to your phone number or email, contact Wells Fargo customer service to update your contact information and reset two-factor authentication. This is why keeping your phone number and email current in your account is important.
Accessing your account from a Wells Fargo branch
You can also access your savings account information by visiting a Wells Fargo branch in person. Bring a government-issued ID—a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. A banker can pull up your account, show you your balance and recent transactions, and help you make transfers or withdrawals.
Branch hours vary by location, but most are open Monday through Friday during business hours and some are open Saturday mornings. You can find your nearest branch and its hours on wellsfargo.com by entering your zip code. During busy times, you may wait, so arriving early in the day or mid-week is usually faster.
If you need to make a large withdrawal or have questions about your account, a banker can often help you faster than you can solve it online. Some transactions—like ordering a new debit card or changing your address—can be done either way, but a branch banker can sometimes complete them on the spot.
What to do if you can't log in
If you've tried to reset your password and it's not working, or if you see an error message when you try to log in, start by clearing your browser's cache and cookies, then try again. If you're using the app, try logging out completely, closing the app, and logging back in. These steps fix most login problems.
If that doesn't work, call Wells Fargo customer service at the number on the back of your debit card or on your account statement. Have your account number and a form of ID ready. A representative can verify your identity and either reset your access or troubleshoot what's blocking you from logging in.
If your account has been locked due to too many failed login attempts, Wells Fargo will unlock it after a set period—usually a few hours. You can call customer service to unlock it sooner if you need when ready access.
Understanding savings account features you can manage online
Once you're in your account, you can change several settings without calling or visiting a branch. You can update your contact information (phone number, email, mailing address), set up or change automatic transfers, adjust your alert preferences, and link external bank accounts for transfers.
You can also view your interest rate, see how much interest you've earned year-to-date, and read statements as PDF files. Most people read statements for tax records or to share with an accountant. Wells Fargo keeps statements available online for several years.
If you want to close your savings account, you'll need to do that either by calling customer service or visiting a branch—you can't close it online. A banker will ask where your remaining balance should go and confirm the closure before it happens.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a Wells Fargo checking account to open a savings account?
No. You can open a Wells Fargo savings account on its own. However, if you have both a checking and savings account, transferring money between them online is when ready and free, which is convenient for managing your money.
Can I access my account from outside the United States?
Yes, you can log in to wellsfargo.com or use the mobile app from anywhere in the world as long as you have internet access. However, some transactions—like withdrawing cash—require you to visit a Wells Fargo branch or use an ATM in the Wells Fargo network.
What happens if I forget my username?
Click "Forgot username or password?" on the login page and enter your Social Security number and account number. Wells Fargo will send your username to your email address on file or display it on screen after you verify your identity.
Is it safe to use the Wells Fargo mobile app on public Wi-Fi?
The app encrypts your information, so it's safer than using the website on public Wi-Fi. However, using your phone's cellular data instead of public Wi-Fi is the most find option. If you must use public Wi-Fi, make sure two-factor authentication is turned on.
How do I link an external bank account for transfers?
Log in to your Wells Fargo account, go to "Transfer Money," and select "Link External Account." Enter the routing number and account number of the bank you want to link. Wells Fargo will send two small deposits to that account to verify you own it, then you enter those amounts to confirm the link.