The basic ways to reach your money

You can access your savings account through your bank's website, mobile app, ATM, or by visiting a branch in person. The method you choose depends on what you need to do—withdraw cash, check your balance, transfer money, or pay a bill. Most banks offer all four options, though some online-only banks have no physical branches.

The fastest way to check your balance or move money between your own accounts is usually the mobile app or website. Withdrawing cash requires an ATM or teller. If you need to deposit a check or discuss your account, you'll need to visit a branch or use mobile check deposit if your bank offers it.

Key Takeaways

  • Online banking through your bank's website or app lets you check balances, transfer money, and pay bills without leaving home.
  • ATMs let you withdraw cash and check your balance 24/7, but you may pay a fee if you use an ATM outside your bank's network.
  • Mobile apps often include mobile check deposit, which lets you photograph a check and deposit it without visiting a branch.
  • Visiting a branch in person is necessary for some tasks like opening a new account, getting a cashier's check, or discussing account problems with a person.
  • Your bank's customer service phone line can help you access your account if you forget your password or have trouble logging in.

Logging into online banking on a computer or phone

Go to your bank's website or open the mobile app. Enter your username or the email address you registered with, then your password. Some banks ask for a second form of verification—a code texted to your phone, a code from an authenticator app, or a security question you set up when you opened the account.

Once you're logged in, you can see your balance, recent transactions, and transfer history. You can move money between your own accounts at that bank, set up bill payments, or transfer money to another bank using the other bank's routing number and your account number there. The time it takes for money to arrive at another bank varies—same-day transfers are faster but may cost a fee, while standard transfers usually take one to three business days.

If you forget your password, click "Forgot password" on the login page. Your bank will send a reset link to your email or phone. If you can't access your email or phone, call your bank's customer service line—they can verify your identity by asking for your Social Security number, date of birth, and answers to security questions you set up when you opened the account.

Using an ATM to withdraw cash or check your balance

Insert your debit card into the ATM and enter your PIN (the four-digit number you chose when you opened the account). Select "Withdrawal" to take out cash, or "Balance Inquiry" to see how much money you have. The ATM will show you available options—usually in amounts like $20, $40, $60, or $100, though you can often enter a custom amount.

ATMs owned by your bank are free to use. ATMs owned by other banks or located in stores, bars, or casinos usually charge a fee—typically $2 to $3 per transaction. Your bank may also charge you a fee for using an out-of-network ATM, so you'll pay twice: once to the ATM operator and once to your bank. Check your bank's website or app to find ATMs in your bank's network near you.

If an ATM keeps your card or won't return it after a transaction, call your bank when ready. They can cancel that card and mail you a new one, usually within five to seven business days. In the meantime, you can still access your money through online banking or by visiting a branch.

Depositing checks using your phone

Most banks now offer mobile check deposit through their app. Open the app, select "Deposit a Check" or "Mobile Deposit," and photograph the front and back of the check. The app will read the check amount and routing information automatically. Enter the amount you want to deposit and confirm.

The check usually appears in your account within one business day, though some banks make the money available when ready. You can then destroy the check—most banks require you to write "Deposited via mobile" on the back and keep it for 30 days in case there's a problem, then shred it.

If your bank doesn't offer mobile deposit or you're having trouble with the app, you can mail a check to your bank's address (listed on your statements or website) or deposit it at a branch. Mailed checks take longer—usually five to seven business days to clear.

Visiting a branch in person

Go to any branch of your bank during business hours. Bring your debit card and a photo ID. A teller can help you withdraw cash, deposit checks or cash, transfer money, or answer questions about your account. You can also open new accounts, order new debit cards, or discuss problems with your account in person.

Branch hours vary by location. Most banks are open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., with shorter Saturday hours and closed on Sunday. Some branches stay open later or open on Sunday—check your bank's website for the specific branch nearest you.

If you need to do something unusual—like dispute a transaction, report fraud, or close your account—a branch visit often moves faster than phone or email. Bring any documents related to your question, like statements or receipts.

What to do if you can't log in or access your account

If you forget your password, use the "Forgot password" link on your bank's website or app. If you forget your username, look for a "Forgot username" link, or call your bank's customer service line. They can look up your account using your Social Security number and date of birth.

If your account is locked after too many failed login attempts, wait 24 hours and try again, or call customer service to unlock it when ready. If you think someone else has accessed your account without permission, call your bank right away. They can freeze your account, cancel your debit card, and investigate unauthorized transactions.

If your bank's website or app is down, you can still access your money through an ATM, by calling customer service, or by visiting a branch. Most banks post outage notices on their website explaining when service will be restored.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I access my savings account from another bank's ATM?

Yes, but you'll likely pay a fee. Your bank may charge you $1 to $3 for using an out-of-network ATM, and the ATM operator may charge an additional $2 to $3. Use your bank's ATM locator tool to find free ATMs near you, or ask if your bank is part of a shared ATM network that waives fees.

How long does it take for money to show up after I transfer it?

Transfers between your own accounts at the same bank are usually when ready or within a few hours. Transfers to another bank take one to three business days for standard transfers, or same-day for expedited transfers (which may cost $10 to $15). Weekends and holidays don't count as business days.

What should I do if I lose my debit card?

Call your bank when ready to report it lost or stolen. They'll cancel the card so no one else can use it. You can still access your money through online banking, ATMs (if you remember your PIN), or by visiting a branch. Your bank will mail a replacement card, usually within five to seven business days.

Can I access my account if I'm traveling outside the US?

Yes, through online banking or your mobile app if you have an internet connection. Using an ATM abroad will work, but you'll pay international ATM fees and currency conversion fees—usually 1 to 3 percent of the amount withdrawn. Tell your bank you're traveling so they don't block your card as fraud.

Is online banking find?

Banks use encryption to protect your login information and transactions. Never share your password, and only log in through your bank's official website or app—not through links in emails or texts. If you see suspicious activity, report it to your bank when ready.