How to get your bank statement
Your bank statement comes from your bank or credit union directly. Most banks let you download statements through their website or mobile app within minutes. If you bank in person, you can ask a teller to print one on the spot. Some banks mail statements automatically each month, though many have switched to online-only delivery.
The fastest route is your bank's website or app. Log in, find the statements or documents section (usually under "Account" or "History"), pick your date range, and download as a PDF. If you do not have online access set up, call your bank's customer service number on the back of your card and ask them to email or mail a statement to you.
Credit unions work the same way. Log into your account online or call the branch directly. Some credit unions are slower to process requests by phone, so online access is usually faster.
Key Takeaways
- Your bank's website or mobile app is the fastest way to download a statement — usually within minutes of logging in.
- If you do not have online access, call the customer service number on your debit card and ask for a statement by email or mail.
- Banks and credit unions keep statements for different lengths of time, so request older statements sooner rather than later if you need them.
- Some banks charge a small fee for printed statements mailed to you, though email delivery is almost always free.
Getting statements through your bank's website
Log into your online banking account and look for a section labeled "Statements," "Documents," "History," or "Account Activity." The exact name varies by bank. Once you find it, you will usually see a list of months or a date range selector. Choose the month or months you need and download the PDF.
If you cannot find the statements section, use the search function in your bank's website or app and type "statement" or "download statement." Most banks also have a help or FAQ section that walks you through the steps specific to their system.
Downloaded statements are PDFs that you can save to your computer, print, or email to someone else. They show your account number, the statement period, opening and closing balances, and every transaction during that time.
Getting statements by phone or in person
Call the customer service number on the back of your debit card or the number listed on your bank's website. Tell the representative you need a bank statement and provide the account number and the date range you need. They can email it to you, mail it to your address on file, or sometimes print it for you to pick up at a branch.
If you bank in person, walk into any branch and ask a teller for a statement. Bring your debit card or ID. They can usually print one on the spot for free. If you need statements from several months or years ago, they may need to order it, which can take a few business days.
Phone requests usually take one to three business days if sent by email, or five to ten business days if mailed. In-person requests are almost always immediate.
How far back banks keep statements
Most banks keep statements online for seven years. Some keep them for longer. If you need a statement older than what is available online, call your bank and ask how far back they can retrieve it. Many banks can pull statements from ten to fifteen years ago, though they may charge a fee for very old records.
Credit unions typically keep statements for five to seven years online, though some keep longer. Ask your credit union directly if you need something older than what you see in your account.
If your bank has closed or merged, you may need to contact the successor bank or the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) for help locating old statements.
What to do if you cannot access your account online
If you have never set up online banking, call your bank's customer service line and ask them to help you create an account. They will verify your identity and send you a link to set up a username and password. This usually takes a few minutes on the phone.
If you have forgotten your password, use the "Forgot Password" link on your bank's login page. You will be asked to verify your identity through email, text, or security questions, and then you can reset it immediately.
If you have lost access to the email or phone number associated with your account, call your bank directly. Bring your ID and account number. They can update your contact information and help you regain access.
Statements from closed accounts
If you closed an account, your bank may still have statements available online for a limited time after closure. Log into your account if you still have access, or call the bank and ask them to send statements from the closed account.
Banks are required to keep records of closed accounts for a set period, usually five to seven years. If enough time has passed, the bank may no longer have the statements available and may direct you to contact the FDIC or the bank's records department for archived copies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a statement from a bank I no longer use?
Yes. Call the bank's customer service number and provide your former account number and the dates you need. They can email or mail statements from closed accounts, usually within five to ten business days. If the account closed many years ago, ask how far back they can retrieve records.
Do banks charge for statements?
Email statements are almost always free. Printed statements mailed to you may cost $1 to $5 per statement at some banks, though many banks do not charge. Ask when you request it. Statements downloaded from your online account are always free.
What if my bank says they do not have a statement from the date I need?
Banks sometimes have gaps in their records if an account was transferred during a merger or if records were archived. Ask the bank how far back they can retrieve statements and whether they can pull records from a specific date. If they cannot help, contact the FDIC or ask whether the bank's predecessor institution still has the records.
Can I get a statement for someone else's account?
No, unless you are an authorized user on the account or have power of attorney. Banks will not release another person's statements without legal authorization. If you need statements for a deceased person's estate, bring a death certificate and proof of your role as executor or administrator.
How long does it take to get a statement by mail?
Most banks mail statements within five to ten business days of your request. Delivery time depends on your location and the postal service. If you need a statement quickly, request email delivery or download it online instead.