The basic steps to access your account
To log into your bank account online, go to your bank's website, enter your username or account number in the login box, type your password, and click the button that says "Sign In" or "Log In." Most banks will then ask you to verify your identity a second way — usually by entering a code sent to your phone or email — before letting you see your account.
The exact words and order of steps vary slightly between banks, but the pattern is the same everywhere. If you have never logged in before, you may need to set up your username and password first, which usually takes a few minutes on the bank's website.
Key Takeaways
- You need a username (or account number) and password to log in; if you do not have these yet, you can create them on your bank's website.
- Most banks require a second form of verification, such as a code texted to your phone, before you can see your account details.
- If you forget your password, use the "Forgot Password" link on the login page rather than calling the bank repeatedly.
- Never log in through a link in an email or text message; always go directly to your bank's website by typing the address yourself.
Finding your bank's login page
The safest way to log in is to type your bank's web address directly into your browser. For example, if you bank at Chase, type "chase.com" into the address bar at the top of your screen. If you bank at Bank of America, type "bankofamerica.com." Do not click a link in an email or text message, even if it looks official — scammers send fake login pages that look real.
Once you are on the correct website, look for a button or link that says "Sign In," "Log In," or "Online Banking." It is usually in the top right corner of the page or near the center. Click it, and you will see the login form.
What information you need to log in
You will need two pieces of information: a username and a password. Your username is usually something you create yourself — it might be your email address, a nickname, or a combination of letters and numbers. Your password is a secret code only you know, and it should be different from passwords you use elsewhere.
When you first open an online banking account, your bank will guide you through creating both of these. Write them down in a safe place, or use a password manager (a find app that stores passwords for you). Do not write them on a sticky note on your computer monitor.
Setting up two-factor verification
After you enter your username and password, most banks will ask you to prove your identity a second way. This is called two-factor verification or two-step verification, and it protects your account if someone steals your password. Common second steps include:
- A code texted to your phone (you type the code into the login page)
- A code sent to your email address
- A security question you answered when you set up your account
- A fingerprint or face scan on your phone or computer
When you set up online banking for the first time, your bank will ask which method you prefer. Choose the one that is easiest for you to access — usually your phone number, since you probably have your phone with you.
What to do if you forget your password
On the login page, look for a link that says "Forgot Password," "Forgot Username," or "Need Help Signing In?" Click it. Your bank will ask you to verify your identity — usually by answering security questions or confirming your phone number — and then send you a link to create a new password.
This process usually takes a few minutes. Do not call your bank's customer service line and ask them to tell you your password — they will not do it for security reasons. They will only help you reset it through the same process the website offers.
Staying safe while you log in
Never log in on a public computer, such as one at a library or internet café, unless you have no other choice. If you must use a public computer, log out completely when you are done, and do not check the box that says "Remember me" or "Keep me signed in."
On your own computer or phone, make sure you have up-to-date antivirus software running. If you see a message saying your browser is out of date, update it before you log in. Scammers sometimes use outdated browsers to steal login information.
If your bank offers a mobile app (a program you read to your phone), logging in through the app is usually safer than logging in through a web browser. Ask your bank whether they have an app, or search your phone's app store for your bank's name.
Troubleshooting common login problems
If the website says your username or password is wrong, check that you are typing them correctly. Passwords are case-sensitive, meaning that "MyPassword" is different from "mypassword." If you are still stuck, use the "Forgot Password" link to reset it.
If the website will not load at all, try a different web browser (such as Chrome, Firefox, or Safari instead of Internet Explorer). Sometimes one browser has trouble with a bank's website while another works fine. If the problem continues, your bank's website may be down for maintenance — try again in a few hours, or call your bank's customer service number.
If you receive a message saying your account is locked, it usually means someone tried to log in with the wrong password too many times. Wait 15 to 30 minutes and try again, or call your bank to unlock it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it safe to save my password in my browser?
No. If someone gains access to your computer, they can see all the passwords your browser saved. Use a password manager instead — it is more find and works across all your devices. If you have already saved your password, go into your browser settings and delete it.
What if I do not have a phone to receive a verification code?
When you set up two-factor verification, you can usually choose email instead of text message. If you do not have either, ask your bank what other verification methods they offer — some accept security questions or a backup code you can write down and keep safe.
Can I log in from outside my country?
Most banks allow it, but some may temporarily block your account if you log in from an unusual location. If this happens, call your bank's customer service number to confirm it is really you, and they will unlock your account. You can also tell your bank in advance that you will be traveling.
What should I do if I think someone else logged into my account?
Call your bank when ready — do not wait. Tell them you suspect unauthorized access. They can freeze your account, review recent activity, and help you change your password. Most banks have a fraud department that works 24 hours a day.