Log in to SunTrust Online Banking to see your balance instantly
SunTrust (now Truist Financial Corporation) lets you check your checking account balance through their online banking portal at truist.com. You'll need your username and password — the same login you use for any Truist online services. Once you're logged in, your current balance appears on the dashboard, usually labeled as "Available Balance" or "Current Balance."
The balance you see online updates throughout the day as transactions post, though the exact timing depends on when the transaction clears. Deposits and withdrawals initiated before the bank's cutoff time (typically 5 p.m. ET on business days) usually show the same day. Transactions after that cutoff may not appear until the next business day.
If you don't have an online banking account set up yet, you can create one on the Truist homepage. You'll need your account number, Social Security number, and other identifying information. The setup process takes about 10 minutes, and you can start checking your balance immediately after.
Key Takeaways
- Go to truist.com and log in with your username and password to see your current balance on the dashboard.
- The balance shown online updates during business hours, though transactions posted after 5 p.m. ET may not appear until the next day.
- You can also check your balance through the Truist mobile app, which is available for iPhone and Android devices.
- If you forget your password, use the "Forgot Username or Password" link on the login page to reset it through email or text verification.
Use the Truist mobile app for balance checks on the go
The Truist mobile app gives you the same balance information as the website, and many people find it faster for quick checks. Download the app from the Apple App Store or Google Play, then log in with the same username and password you use for online banking. Your balance appears on the home screen as soon as you open the app.
The app also shows recent transactions, pending deposits, and upcoming bill payments in one place. You can set up push notifications to alert you when your balance drops below a certain amount, which helps prevent overdrafts. The app works on older phones too, though Truist recommends keeping your phone's operating system current for security.
What "Available Balance" means and why it differs from "Current Balance"
Truist shows two different balance numbers: Current Balance and Available Balance. Current Balance is the total of all transactions that have posted to your account, including checks that have cleared and deposits that have been received. Available Balance is what you can actually spend right now — it subtracts pending transactions, holds on deposits, and any other temporary blocks.
The difference matters when you're checking whether you have enough money to make a purchase. If your current balance is $500 but you have a $300 pending charge and a $100 hold on a recent deposit, your available balance might be only $100. Truist holds deposits for various reasons: if you deposit a check, they may hold it for one to three business days. If you deposit cash at an ATM, the hold is usually shorter or nonexistent.
When you're deciding whether to spend money, use your Available Balance, not your Current Balance. This prevents overdrafts when pending transactions haven't cleared yet.
Troubleshooting login problems and forgotten passwords
If you can't remember your username or password, click "Forgot Username or Password" on the Truist login page. You'll be asked to verify your identity using your account number and Social Security number, then Truist will send a reset link to your email or phone number on file. The link works for 24 hours. If you don't receive it, check your spam folder or request a new link.
If you're locked out after too many incorrect login attempts, wait 24 hours before trying again. Truist locks accounts temporarily to protect against unauthorized access. If you're still having trouble after 24 hours, call Truist customer service at 1-800-TRUIST-1 (1-800-878-4781) and have your account number and Social Security number ready.
If you've changed your phone number or email address since you opened your account, update your contact information in the account settings before you try to reset your password. Truist sends reset links to the phone or email they have on file, so outdated contact details will prevent you from receiving the link.
Check your balance at a Truist ATM or branch
You don't need a computer or phone to check your balance. Any Truist ATM lets you insert your debit card and check your balance without making a withdrawal. The balance appears on the ATM screen and is updated in real time. This method works even if you forget your online banking password or don't have a smartphone.
You can also walk into any Truist branch during business hours and ask a teller to tell you your balance. Bring your debit card or account number. This is slower than checking online, but it's an option if you prefer talking to a person or need to discuss your account.
Set up balance alerts to monitor your account automatically
Truist online banking and the mobile app both let you set up automatic alerts. You can choose to receive a text message or email when your balance falls below a certain amount, when a large transaction posts, or when a check clears. These alerts help you catch fraud early and avoid overdrafts.
To set up alerts, log into online banking, go to Settings or Preferences, and look for "Alerts" or "Notifications." Choose which alerts you want, the threshold amounts, and whether you want texts or emails. You can change these settings anytime. The alerts are free and don't affect your account.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my online balance differ from the balance at the ATM?
The ATM and online banking should show the same balance, but if they differ, it's usually because one hasn't updated yet. ATMs update less frequently than online banking, especially late at night or on weekends. Wait a few hours and check again. If the difference persists, call Truist customer service to investigate.
Can I check my balance without logging in?
No. Truist requires a login for security reasons. However, you can check your balance at any Truist ATM by inserting your debit card, or call the automated phone line at 1-800-TRUIST-1 and follow the prompts to hear your balance read aloud.
How often does my online balance update?
Truist updates balances throughout the day during business hours. Transactions posted before 5 p.m. ET usually show the same day. Transactions after 5 p.m. or on weekends may not appear until the next business day. Pending transactions show immediately but may take one to three days to clear.
What if I see a transaction I don't recognize?
Contact Truist immediately at 1-800-TRUIST-1. Have the transaction details ready: the date, amount, and merchant name. Truist will investigate and can freeze your account if fraud is suspected. You have 60 days from your statement date to report unauthorized transactions.