The fastest way depends on your bank and how recent the statement is
Most banks let you download statements online through their website or mobile app within minutes. If your bank offers online banking, log in, find the statements or history section, select your account and date range, and download as a PDF. This works for statements going back several years, usually at least seven years for most major banks.
If you do not have online banking set up, call your bank's customer service line or visit a branch in person. A teller can print a statement on the spot or mail it to you, though mailed statements typically arrive in five to ten business days. Some banks charge a small fee for printed statements if you request more than a certain number per year, but the first few are usually free.
For statements older than what your bank keeps online—sometimes going back ten, fifteen, or twenty years—you will need to contact the bank directly. They can retrieve archived statements, but this may take longer and could involve a fee.
Key Takeaways
- Online banking is the fastest method: log in, select your date range, and download a PDF in minutes.
- If you do not have online banking, call your bank or visit a branch to request a printed or mailed statement.
- Most banks keep statements available online for at least seven years; older statements require a direct request to the bank.
- Mailed statements take five to ten business days; printed statements at a branch are immediate.
- Some banks charge a fee for printed statements beyond a certain number per year, so check your bank's policy first.
Getting statements through online banking
Log into your bank's website or open their mobile app. Look for a section labeled "Statements," "Account History," "Documents," or "Transactions"—the exact name varies by bank. Select the account you need a statement for, then choose your date range. Most banks let you pick a specific month or a custom date range.
Download the statement as a PDF. This file is yours to keep, print, or share. You can usually download multiple months at once or one at a time. If your bank does not offer PDF downloads, they may let you view statements online and print directly from your browser.
If you have not set up online banking yet, you will need your account number and a form of ID. Call your bank's main number or visit a branch to get your free guide. Setup usually takes a few minutes and is free.
Requesting statements by phone or in person
Call your bank's customer service number, which is usually on the back of your debit card or on their website. Tell them which account you need a statement for and what date range. They can email it to you, mail it to your address on file, or sometimes read key information over the phone.
If you prefer to handle it in person, visit any branch of your bank. Bring your ID and account number if you have it. A teller can print a statement immediately or order one to be mailed. In-person requests are often faster than phone requests because the teller can print while you wait.
Some banks charge $1 to $5 per printed statement if you request more than a set number per year—often three to five free statements annually. Ask about this fee before requesting multiple copies.
Accessing statements from closed accounts
If you closed an account years ago, you can still get statements from that account. Contact the bank that held the account and provide your former account number if you have it. The bank keeps records even after accounts close, usually for at least seven years.
Retrieving old statements from a closed account may take longer than current statements—sometimes two to four weeks—because the bank has to search archived records. You may also face a higher fee, sometimes $10 to $25 per statement or per request, depending on how old the statement is and how far back the bank has to search.
If the bank no longer exists because it merged with another bank, contact the bank that acquired it. They typically have access to the old records.
What to do if you cannot reach your bank
If your bank's customer service line is down or you cannot reach them during business hours, try their website first. Most banks have a contact form or live chat option. You can also visit a physical branch if one is nearby.
If your bank has gone out of business, contact the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) at 1-877-ASK-FDIC or visit their website. They maintain records of failed banks and can direct you to where your account records are held.
For credit unions, contact the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA) if you cannot reach your credit union directly. They keep records of member institutions and can help you locate your account information.
Statements you may need for specific purposes
Different situations call for different statements. A recent statement (usually from the last 30 to 90 days) is standard for proof of address, opening new accounts, or applying for loans. A year-to-date statement showing all transactions from January through the current month helps with tax preparation or business accounting. A statement for a specific month is useful if you need to verify a particular transaction or dispute a charge.
For legal matters like divorce, inheritance, or court cases, you may need statements covering several years. Request these well in advance because gathering multiple years of statements can take time, especially if some are archived.
If you need a statement certified or notarized—meaning an official confirms it is genuine—ask your bank whether they offer this service. Some do; others do not. A notary public can also notarize a statement you already have, though the bank's certification carries more weight in legal situations.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far back can I get bank statements?
Most banks keep statements online for at least seven years. Older statements are usually available by request but may take longer to retrieve and could cost a fee. Contact your bank to ask how far back their records go—some keep statements for ten, fifteen, or even twenty years.
Can I get a statement if I forgot my online banking password?
Yes. Use the "Forgot Password" link on your bank's website to reset it, or call customer service and they can verify your identity and help you regain access. If you cannot reset it online, a teller at a branch can print a statement for you immediately without needing your password.
Do banks charge for statements?
Online statements are free. Printed statements are usually free for the first few per year, but some banks charge $1 to $5 each for additional copies. Archived statements older than seven years may cost more. Call your bank to confirm their fee policy.
What if I need a statement but do not have an account number?
Bring your ID to a branch and a teller can look up your account using your name and address. If you are calling, have your Social Security number and date of birth ready so they can verify your identity and locate your account.
Can I get statements for someone else's account?
Only the account holder or an authorized representative can request statements. If you have power of attorney or are a joint account holder, bring the relevant documents to a branch. Otherwise, the account holder must request the statement themselves or give you written permission.