How to Check Your Bank Account Balance

Every month, money moves in and out of our bank accounts in small and big ways. In the middle of all this activity, many people stop to check their actual bank balance. But knowing how much money is available makes everyday decisions less stressful.

It helps you plan expenses, avoid failed payments, and stay aware of your financial position. There are several easy ways to check your bank account balance.

Understanding these options can help you keep track of your money whenever you need to.

Top Ways to Check Bank Account Balance in India

Looking at your balance regularly gives you a better idea of how much is left after expenses and EMIs. And there are several simple ways to check your bank balance. Most people stick to the option that is easiest for them to access. This includes -

1. Mobile Banking App

Your bank’s app lets you check balances and recent activity in one place.

• Pros - Useful features like alerts and transaction history
• Cons - Needs the app and internet access

To check your balance using a mobile banking app -

1. Install your bank’s official app from the Play Store or App Store.
2. Sign in using your customer ID and password, or the MPIN or biometric option you have set up.
3. From the home screen, open Account Summary, My Accounts, or the closest matching option.
4. Tap the relevant savings or current account to view your available balance and recent transactions.

If you also manage loans or repayments digitally, the Hero FinCorp instant personal loan app for Android and iOS makes it easier to check loan details, track EMIs, and manage repayments from one place.

2. Net Banking

Sign in to your bank’s website to see your account balance and recent transactions.

• Pros - Gives accurate, up-to-date details
• Cons - Needs internet access and login credentials

You can also check your balance through your bank’s net banking website.

1. Go to your bank’s official website and open the net banking login page.
2. Sign in using your net banking user ID and password.
3. Look for tabs like Accounts, Account Details, or Dashboard.
4. Select the account to view the balance and recent transactions.

3. UPI Apps

UPI apps show your balance after you enter your UPI PIN.

• Pros - Quick and convenient on a smartphone
• Cons - Requires internet and a linked bank account

Most UPI apps let you check your balance in a few steps.

1. Open Google Pay, PhonePe, Paytm, or your preferred UPI app.
2. Go to Bank accounts or Linked accounts (the wording varies by app).
3. Choose the bank account you want to check.
4. Tap Check balance (or similar).
5. Enter your UPI PIN when prompted.
6. View your balance on the screen.

4. SMS Banking and Missed Call Service

Many banks in India offer SMS and missed call services for a quick bank balance check, even without internet access.

Missed call method

1. Use your registered mobile number.
2. Give a missed call to your bank’s designated balance enquiry number.
3. The call disconnects automatically.
4. You receive an SMS with your current balance.

For example, SBI customers can give a missed call to 09223766666, while HDFC Bank users can dial 1800 270 3333.

SMS banking method

1. Send an SMS in the prescribed format, such as BAL or BAL <last four digits of account>.
2. Send it to your bank’s official SMS number.
3. You receive a reply SMS with your balance details.

5. ATM Balance Enquiry

An ATM balance enquiry is a simple offline option. Insert your debit card, enter your PIN, and select Balance Enquiry. The balance appears on screen and may also be printed on a slip.

Banks usually allow a limited number of free ATM enquiries each month, after which a small fee may apply. Always shield the keypad while entering your PIN and avoid unfamiliar ATMs.

6. Passbook Update at Bank Branch

Updating your passbook at a bank branch or passbook kiosk is the traditional way to check your account balance. The passbook shows your latest balance along with recent transactions in print.

This method is helpful for people who prefer physical records and for tracking long-term account activity without using digital services. And when you need funds for something short-term, this clarity helps when comparing options.

How to Check Bank Balance with Account Number Online

It’s common to assume that you can check your bank balance online using just your account number, but banks do not allow this on their own. An account number by itself is not enough to confirm identity, which is why balance details are always protected behind login checks.

To see your balance online, you must log in through net banking, a mobile banking app, or a UPI app. This usually involves your registered mobile number along with a password, OTP, or UPI PIN. While the account number is part of the setup, access is given only after checks are completed.

If online options are not available, missed call services, SMS banking, ATMs, and passbook updates work reliably.

Knowing how these checks work also helps when you are considering borrowing, since lenders review more than just one number.

Start with Your Balance, Plan with Confidence

Making a habit of checking your bank account balance helps you stay clear about how much money is available at any point. It becomes easier to plan expenses, keep EMIs on track, and avoid last-minute surprises.

When you know your numbers, decisions around spending or borrowing tend to feel more comfortable and thought through. If a situation comes up where you need extra funds, having that clarity helps you assess the gap realistically.

A clear view of your bank balance helps you make smarter money choices. If you ever need extra funds, Hero FinCorp’s personal loan offers a simple, digital way to bridge the gap without disrupting your plans.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I check my bank account balance without the internet?

Yes. Options like missed call banking, SMS banking, ATMs, and passbook updates work without an internet connection.

Is it safe to check my bank balance via UPI apps?

Yes. UPI apps are designed with security checks and show balance details only after you enter your UPI PIN. Always use official apps and keep your PIN confidential.

How often should I check my bank balance?

Once or twice a week works well for most people. It helps you stay aware of spending and notice any unusual activity early.

Can I check my bank balance with just my account number?

No. Banks need additional verification, such as a password, OTP, or UPI PIN. An account number alone does not give access.

What should I do if I forget my net banking password?

Use the “Forgot password” option on your bank’s website or app and follow the steps to reset it using OTP verification.

Are SMS banking charges applicable for balance checks?

Banks usually do not charge for balance enquiry messages, but your mobile operator may apply standard SMS charges.