Most banking tasks work on mobile, but not all—and the ones that don't usually require a computer or a branch visit
You can transfer money between your own accounts, pay bills, deposit checks by photo, check balances, and set up alerts on your phone. You cannot open a new account, apply for a loan, update your legal name or address on file, or handle disputes over fraudulent charges through most mobile apps. The gap exists because some actions need your signature, proof of identity, or a conversation with a person who can verify you are who you say you are.
The specific limits depend on your bank. A large national bank's app may block more actions than a smaller regional bank's. Some banks let you start a loan application on your phone and finish it online; others require you to visit a branch or call. This guide covers what typically works, what does not, and how to find out what your own bank allows.
Key Takeaways
- Transfers, bill payments, check deposits, and balance checks work on almost every mobile banking app, but opening accounts and applying for loans usually do not.
- Actions that require your signature, proof of identity, or fraud investigation almost always need a computer, phone call, or branch visit.
- Your bank's app may block a task that another bank's app allows, so check your bank's help section or call customer service to confirm what is available to you.
- Mobile apps are fastest for routine money movement; branches and phone calls are necessary when the bank needs to verify who you are or what you own.
Tasks that work on mobile banking apps
Transfers between your own accounts work on nearly every app. You can move money from checking to savings, or from one bank to another if you have set up the connection in advance. Most transfers post within one business day.
Bill payments are standard on mobile. You can pay utilities, credit cards, insurance premiums, and other regular bills through your bank's app. The bank sends the payment on the date you choose, usually within one to three business days. Some banks also let you pay a person directly through their mobile app if you have their email or phone number.
Check deposits work by taking a photo of the front and back of the check through your app. The bank reads the image, credits your account, and holds the physical check. This feature is available on most major banks' apps and usually posts within one business day.
Balance checks, transaction history, and account statements are always available on mobile. You can see what you spent, when deposits posted, and what your current balance is at any time. You can also download statements as PDFs for your records.
Alerts and notifications can be set up on your phone. You can ask your bank to text or email you when your balance drops below a certain amount, when a large transaction posts, or when someone tries to log in to your account from a new device.
Password and PIN changes work on mobile. You can reset your login password or change your debit card PIN through the app without calling anyone.
Tasks that require a computer, phone call, or branch visit
Opening a new account usually cannot be done through a mobile app. Most banks require you to open accounts on their website or in a branch because they need to verify your identity through a more secure method than a phone can provide. Some banks now offer video verification on their websites, which lets you open an account from home but not from the mobile app itself.
Applying for a loan or credit card typically starts on a website or in a branch. You may be able to check your status on the app after you have applied, but the initial application usually requires a computer. The bank needs to pull your credit report, verify your income, and collect your signature on disclosure forms.
Updating your legal name, address, or phone number on file usually requires a phone call or branch visit. The bank needs to verify your identity before making changes to your account information. Some banks let you update your phone number through the app, but address and name changes almost always need verification.
Reporting fraud or disputing a transaction can begin on the app at some banks, but the formal investigation usually requires a phone call or written statement. The bank needs to document your claim and may need to ask follow-up questions. You can often file a dispute through the app, but the bank will likely call you to confirm details.
Closing an account usually requires a phone call or branch visit. The bank needs to confirm you want to close it and may ask about your reason. Some banks let you request closure through the app, but you will still need to speak to someone to finalize it.
Ordering a new debit or credit card works on most apps. You can request a replacement card if yours is lost, stolen, or expired. However, if you need to change the card's design, add a photo, or request a card in a different name, you may need to call or visit a branch.
Why some tasks are blocked on mobile
Banks restrict certain actions on mobile apps because they need to verify your identity more thoroughly than a phone can. When you open an account or apply for a loan, the bank is taking on legal and financial risk. They need to confirm you are the person you claim to be, that you have the income you stated, and that you understand the terms you are agreeing to.
A mobile app cannot collect your signature in a way that holds up legally in most cases. It also cannot verify your identity as securely as a website with additional security layers or a branch employee who can check your ID in person. For this reason, banks keep account opening, loan applications, and major account changes off the mobile app.
Fraud disputes are also restricted because the bank needs to investigate. They may need to contact merchants, review security footage, or ask you detailed questions about when and where you used your card. This conversation usually happens over the phone so the bank can document your answers and ask follow-up questions in real time.
How to find out what your specific bank allows
The easiest way is to open your bank's app and look for a help or FAQ section. Search for the task you want to do—for example, "open a new account" or "dispute a charge." Most banks have a page that lists what can be done on mobile and what cannot.
If you cannot find the answer in the app, call your bank's customer service number. It is usually on the back of your debit card or on the bank's website. Tell them the specific task you want to do, and they will tell you whether it is available on the app and, if not, what your options are.
You can also visit a branch and ask. A teller or account manager can show you what the app can do and walk you through any tasks that require a different method.
Mobile banking security and limits
Most banks limit how much money you can transfer on mobile in a single day. This limit varies by bank but is often between $5,000 and $25,000. The limit is a security measure to reduce the damage if someone gains unauthorized access to your account. You can usually raise the limit by calling your bank or visiting a branch.
Mobile apps also have session timeouts. If you do not use the app for a certain period—usually 5 to 15 minutes—you will be logged out for security. You will need to log back in to continue.
Some banks require you to use biometric login (fingerprint or face recognition) on mobile for added security. This prevents someone who has your password from accessing your account through the app.
What has changed since 2024
More banks are now offering video verification on their websites and apps, which lets you open accounts and apply for certain products without visiting a branch. However, this feature is not yet universal, and most banks still require a website visit or branch appointment for account opening.
Mobile check deposit limits have increased at many banks. Some now allow deposits of $10,000 or more per day, up from $5,000 or $2,500 a few years ago. Check your bank's app to see your current limit.
Peer-to-peer payment features have expanded. More banks now let you send money to another person through the app using their email or phone number, without needing their account number.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I open a savings account on my phone?
Most banks do not allow account opening through their mobile app. You can usually open an account on the bank's website, and some banks now offer video verification so you can do it from home. A few banks have started allowing app-based account opening, but this is not yet standard. Check your bank's website or call to see if they offer this option.
What if I need to dispute a charge but the app will not let me?
Call your bank's customer service number on the back of your debit card. You can also visit a branch. The bank will start an investigation and may ask you questions about the transaction. You can usually file a dispute claim through the app, but the formal investigation happens over the phone or in person.
Can I apply for a credit card on my phone?
Most banks require you to apply for a credit card on their website or in a branch, not through the mobile app. The application needs your signature and verification of your income and credit history. Some banks let you check your application status on the app after you have applied online.
Is it safe to do all my banking on mobile?
Mobile banking is generally safe if you use a strong password, enable biometric login, and keep your phone's software updated. However, some tasks like opening accounts or applying for loans are intentionally blocked on mobile because they require stronger identity verification. For those tasks, use your bank's website or visit a branch.
Can I change my address on file through the mobile app?
Most banks do not allow address changes through the mobile app. You will need to call customer service or visit a branch so the bank can verify your identity before updating your account information. Some banks may let you update your phone number through the app, but address changes almost always require verification.