The account statement is an important financial-banking document in the relationship between a credit institution and its client. This instrument provides a detailed overview of the operations carried out in a bank account during a specified period.
What Is an Account Statement?
An account statement is an official document issued by a credit institution that provides a detailed record of all transactions carried out in a bank account over a certain period. It includes information such as the account holder’s identification details, account number, the period covered by the statement, the initial and final balance, details about each transaction, as well as any applied fees or interest.
From a legal perspective, the account statement serves as evidence of the operations performed and can be used for various purposes, including in legal disputes or in dealings with tax authorities. Account statements have probative value in court. This characteristic gives the account statement a particular importance in legal proceedings, as it can be used to prove the existence or absence of financial transactions.
Where Can I Get an Account Statement?
Obtaining an account statement has become much more accessible and diversified in the digital era. Most banking institutions offer clients the ability to generate and download account statements directly from their internet banking platforms or through dedicated mobile apps. This method provides the advantage of immediate access and reduced costs associated with physical document processing.
For clients who prefer traditional methods or require stamped and signed statements, the option to request statements at bank branch counters remains available. Some banks continue to offer periodic delivery of account statements by mail to the client’s address, although this practice is declining due to associated costs and a growing preference for digital solutions.
How Much Does an Account Statement Cost?
The cost of an account statement varies depending on each credit institution’s policy and the method of obtaining it. Generally, statements generated online or via mobile apps are offered free of charge as part of standard internet banking services. This approach aligns with the general trend of digitalizing banking services and reducing operational costs.
For statements requested at the counter or sent by mail, there may be associated costs, determined according to each bank’s list of fees and commissions. These costs may vary depending on the period covered by the statement and the frequency of requests.
Required Documents for Account Statement
The requirements for obtaining an account statement vary depending on the chosen method and the specific policies of each banking institution. For online or mobile app access, authentication credentials are required, which may include a username, password, and, in many cases, an additional security code.
When requesting the statement at the bank counter, the client must present a valid ID and complete a specific request form.
For legal entities, the process can be more complex, requiring identification documents of the authorized person requesting the statement, as well as valid powers of attorney or specimen signatures. These additional requirements aim to protect the confidentiality of company financial information and prevent unauthorized access to sensitive data.
In cases where the account statement is requested by a third party, such as a proxy or heir, additional documents may be required to prove the legal right to access the account information (such as powers of attorney, inheritance certificates, or heir certificates). This measure is important for safeguarding banking data confidentiality and preventing fraud.
In conclusion, the account statement is a key tool in managing personal finances and in the relationship with credit institutions, offering transparency over banking operations and serving as probative documentation in various legal and fiscal situations. Romanian legislation, aligned with European standards, ensures clients’ right to periodic and free access to account information, while imposing on banks the obligation to maintain the confidentiality of banking data.
In the digital age, access to account statements has become easier through internet banking services and mobile apps, reflecting the general trend of digitalizing financial services.