SBI Guide Verified Content

SBI Bank Statement Request Letter: Format, Ready-to-Use Samples & Complete Guide (2026)

Last Updated:
Reviewed by Banking Professionals

Need to write an SBI bank statement request letter? Whether you require a stamped statement for a visa application, income tax filing, loan processing, or a legal proceeding, this guide provides everything you need — 6 purpose-specific sample letters you can use right away, a detailed format breakdown, the complete branch submission process, and alternative digital methods to obtain your State Bank of India account statement.

Quick Jump to What You Need

Copy-Paste Letter Samples Letter Format Guide Branch Submission Steps Get Statement via YONO

When and Why You Need an SBI Bank Statement Request Letter

You have a visa interview in ten days and the embassy requires six months of stamped bank statements. The YONO app shows your transactions clearly, but embassies do not accept mobile screenshots or unsigned digital printouts. Or perhaps your Chartered Accountant has asked for the last three financial years of bank statements for an income tax assessment, and you need the branch to issue them on official SBI letterhead with the branch seal. Maybe you are applying for a home loan with another lender and they require twelve months of salary account statements from your SBI account to verify your income and repayment capacity.

In each of these situations, a formal SBI bank statement request letter addressed to your Branch Manager is the most reliable way to obtain an officially stamped, signed statement that carries full legal and institutional weight. While SBI offers several convenient digital channels — YONO, internet banking, and even missed call services — a physical, branch-issued statement remains indispensable in many real-world scenarios.

Common Situations Requiring a Formal Statement Request

Visa Applications

Most embassies and consulates — including the US, UK, Schengen, Canada, and Australia — require the last 6 months of stamped bank statements on the bank’s letterhead as proof of financial standing. Digital printouts are typically rejected.

Income Tax & ITR Filing

During income tax assessments or scrutiny proceedings, the Income Tax Department may request formal bank statements. Your CA or tax advisor will need statements for the relevant financial year (April to March) for accurate ITR preparation.

Loan Applications

When applying for a home loan, personal loan, or car loan — especially with a different bank or NBFC — lenders require 6 to 12 months of salary account statements to assess your income stability and repayment capacity.

Legal & Court Proceedings

Courts and legal authorities require certified bank statements with the branch’s wet stamp and authorised signatory as admissible financial evidence. Digital copies do not carry the same evidentiary weight.

Business Audits

Statutory auditors, internal auditors, and government agencies may require current account statements for compliance reviews, GST audits, or company annual audits.

Address & Financial Proof

Bank statements serve as valid address proof and financial proof for various applications including property registration, educational admissions, and government scheme enrollments.

When Digital Statements Are Not Sufficient: Embassies, courts, auditors, and most loan processing departments require a physical statement on SBI letterhead carrying the branch’s round seal (wet stamp) and an authorised signatory’s signature. A PDF downloaded from YONO or internet banking, while useful for personal record-keeping, is not universally accepted for official purposes. When in doubt, request a stamped physical copy from the branch.

Essential Elements of an SBI Bank Statement Request Letter

A well-structured request letter ensures your application is processed quickly and without back-and-forth queries from the branch. The letter should be addressed to the Branch Manager of your SBI home branch — note that SBI branch heads carry the designation “Chief Manager” or “Branch Manager” depending on the branch category, so “The Branch Manager” is the universally correct and safe addressee. Here is a detailed breakdown of every element your SBI account statement request letter must contain, along with the reasoning behind each.

1

Sender’s Details

Your full name (as registered with SBI), complete postal address, registered mobile number, and email address. Place this at the top-left of the letter. Including your registered mobile number is important because the branch may call you when the statement is ready for collection.

2

Date

Write the date in Indian convention: DD/MM/YYYY or DD Month YYYY (e.g., 06/02/2026 or 06 February 2026). The date establishes when the request was made, which matters if there is a processing delay.

3

Addressee — Correct Designation

Address the letter to “The Branch Manager” followed by the full branch name and address. Avoid using “Bank Manager” — this is not the correct designation within SBI’s organisational structure. For example: “The Branch Manager, State Bank of India, Connaught Place Branch, New Delhi — 110001.”

4

Subject Line

A clear, specific subject line helps the branch locate your account immediately in the CBS system. Include the account number directly. For example: “Subject: Request for Account Statement for Savings Account No. XXXXXXXXXXX.”

5

Salutation

Use “Respected Sir/Madam,” which is the standard formal salutation in Indian banking correspondence. While “Dear Sir/Madam” is also acceptable, “Respected” is more commonly used and preferred in formal applications addressed to bank officials in India.

6

Body — Three-Paragraph Structure

Paragraph 1 (Introduction): State your name, account type (Savings, Current, etc.), and full 11-digit SBI account number. Briefly establish your identity as an account holder of the branch.

Paragraph 2 (Request): Clearly state what you need — the specific date range for the statement (e.g., “from 01/04/2025 to 31/03/2026”), the format (on letterhead with stamp and signature), and the purpose (visa application, ITR filing, loan processing, etc.). Mentioning the purpose helps the branch issue the correct format — for instance, visa-related requests need the branch’s round seal.

Paragraph 3 (Closing): Express gratitude, offer to provide additional information if needed, and mention your contact details for follow-up.

7

Complimentary Close & Signature

Use “Yours faithfully,” (not “Yours sincerely” — “faithfully” is correct for formal letters to recipients you do not personally know). Sign with the same signature registered with SBI on your account. Below the signature, print your full name, account number, and registered mobile number.

8

Enclosures List

List all documents attached with the letter: photocopy of passbook (first page showing account details), photocopy of ID proof (Aadhaar card, PAN card, passport, or voter ID), and any purpose-specific documents (e.g., embassy requirement letter for visa applications). The enclosures list helps the branch verify that all necessary documents are present.

Pro Tip: Print the letter or write it neatly on plain white A4 paper. While handwritten letters are accepted, a typed and printed letter is processed more efficiently because it avoids misreading of account numbers or dates — a single transposed digit in your 11-digit SBI account number can cause significant delays.

SBI Bank Statement Request Letter: Samples & Templates

Below are six complete, ready-to-use sample letters covering the most common scenarios. Each template uses placeholder data clearly marked with brackets — simply replace the bracketed items with your actual details. You can copy any letter directly using the copy button, paste it into a document, fill in your details, and print it for submission.

Sample 1

General Request — Savings Account Statement (Last 6 Months)

Use this template for a standard savings account statement request with no specific purpose. Suitable for personal record-keeping, general financial review, or when the purpose does not require special formatting.

[Your Full Name] [Your Complete Address] [City, State — PIN Code] Mobile: [Your Registered Mobile Number] Email: [Your Email Address] Date: [DD/MM/YYYY] To, The Branch Manager, State Bank of India, [Branch Name] Branch, [Branch Address], [City — PIN Code]. Subject: Request for Account Statement for Savings Account No. [XXXXXXXXXXX] Respected Sir/Madam, I, [Your Full Name], am a savings account holder at your branch. My account number is [XXXXXXXXXXX] and my Customer Information File (CIF) number is [XXXXXXXXXXX]. I have been maintaining this account with your branch since [Year]. I kindly request you to issue me an account statement for the period from [DD/MM/YYYY] to [DD/MM/YYYY]. I require this statement for my personal financial records. I am enclosing a photocopy of my passbook and identity proof for your reference and verification. I shall be grateful if you could process this request at the earliest convenience. Please feel free to contact me on my registered mobile number if any further information is required. Yours faithfully, [Your Signature] [Your Full Name] Account No.: [XXXXXXXXXXX] Mobile: [Your Registered Mobile Number] Enclosures: 1. Photocopy of SBI Passbook (first page) 2. Photocopy of Aadhaar Card / PAN Card / Passport
Sample 2

Bank Statement for Visa Application (Stamped & Signed on Letterhead)

Use this template when requesting a statement for a visa application. This letter specifically requests the statement on SBI letterhead with the branch’s round seal and authorised signatory — elements that most embassies require. Adjust the period based on the specific embassy’s requirements (typically 3 to 6 months).

[Your Full Name] [Your Complete Address] [City, State — PIN Code] Mobile: [Your Registered Mobile Number] Email: [Your Email Address] Date: [DD/MM/YYYY] To, The Branch Manager, State Bank of India, [Branch Name] Branch, [Branch Address], [City — PIN Code]. Subject: Request for Stamped Account Statement for Visa Application — Savings Account No. [XXXXXXXXXXX] Respected Sir/Madam, I, [Your Full Name], hold a savings account (Account No. [XXXXXXXXXXX]) at your esteemed branch. I am applying for a [Country Name] visa at the [Embassy/Consulate Name, City] and am required to submit my bank account statement as proof of financial standing. I kindly request you to issue my account statement for the period from [DD/MM/YYYY] to [DD/MM/YYYY] (last six months). As per the embassy requirements, I request that the statement be issued on official SBI letterhead, bearing the branch’s round seal (stamp) and the signature of an authorised bank official. The statement should clearly reflect my account holder name, account number, all transactions during the said period, and the opening and closing balances. I am enclosing photocopies of my passbook and passport for your reference. I would be grateful if this request could be processed on priority, as my visa appointment is scheduled for [Date]. Please contact me on my registered mobile number for any clarification. Yours faithfully, [Your Signature] [Your Full Name] Account No.: [XXXXXXXXXXX] Mobile: [Your Registered Mobile Number] Passport No.: [Your Passport Number] Enclosures: 1. Photocopy of SBI Passbook (first page) 2. Photocopy of Passport (first and last page) 3. Photocopy of Visa Appointment Letter (if available)
Sample 3

Bank Statement for Income Tax Purpose / CA Audit

Use this template when your Chartered Accountant or tax advisor requires bank statements for ITR filing, income tax assessment, or a tax audit. The period typically aligns with the financial year (1st April to 31st March). You may need statements for multiple financial years.

[Your Full Name] [Your Complete Address] [City, State — PIN Code] Mobile: [Your Registered Mobile Number] Email: [Your Email Address] Date: [DD/MM/YYYY] To, The Branch Manager, State Bank of India, [Branch Name] Branch, [Branch Address], [City — PIN Code]. Subject: Request for Account Statement for Income Tax Assessment — Savings Account No. [XXXXXXXXXXX] Respected Sir/Madam, I, [Your Full Name], am a savings account holder at your branch bearing Account No. [XXXXXXXXXXX]. I am required to file my Income Tax Return for the Assessment Year [YYYY-YY] and my Chartered Accountant has requested the complete bank account statement for the relevant financial year. I kindly request you to issue my account statement for the following period: • Financial Year [YYYY-YY]: From 01/04/[YYYY] to 31/03/[YYYY] [If multiple years are needed, add:] • Financial Year [YYYY-YY]: From 01/04/[YYYY] to 31/03/[YYYY] I request that the statement be issued on the bank’s letterhead with the branch seal and an authorised signature, as it will be submitted to the Income Tax Department if required during assessment. The statement should show all transactions with the complete narration, debit and credit amounts, and running balance. I have enclosed the necessary documents for verification. Kindly process this request at the earliest. I am available on my registered mobile number for any queries. Yours faithfully, [Your Signature] [Your Full Name] Account No.: [XXXXXXXXXXX] PAN: [Your PAN Number] Mobile: [Your Registered Mobile Number] Enclosures: 1. Photocopy of SBI Passbook (first page) 2. Photocopy of PAN Card 3. Photocopy of Aadhaar Card
Disclaimer: For tax-related matters, always consult a qualified Chartered Accountant or tax advisor. The statement format and period requirements may vary based on your specific tax situation and the nature of the assessment.
Sample 4

Bank Statement for Loan Application at Another Bank

Use this template when applying for a home loan, personal loan, car loan, or any credit facility at another bank or NBFC. Lenders typically require 6 to 12 months of salary account statements to verify income and assess repayment capacity.

[Your Full Name] [Your Complete Address] [City, State — PIN Code] Mobile: [Your Registered Mobile Number] Email: [Your Email Address] Date: [DD/MM/YYYY] To, The Branch Manager, State Bank of India, [Branch Name] Branch, [Branch Address], [City — PIN Code]. Subject: Request for Account Statement for Loan Processing — Savings/Salary Account No. [XXXXXXXXXXX] Respected Sir/Madam, I, [Your Full Name], am a savings/salary account holder at your branch. My account number is [XXXXXXXXXXX]. I am currently in the process of applying for a [Home Loan / Personal Loan / Car Loan] with [Name of Lending Bank/NBFC] and they have requested my bank account statement as part of the loan documentation process. I kindly request you to issue my account statement for the last twelve months, i.e., from [DD/MM/YYYY] to [DD/MM/YYYY]. The statement should clearly reflect my salary credits, opening and closing balance for each month, and all transactions during the period. I request that it be issued on SBI letterhead with the branch seal and signature of an authorised official. I have enclosed the required documents for your verification. I would be obliged if you could process this request promptly, as the loan processing is time-sensitive. Please contact me on my registered mobile number should you require any additional information. Yours faithfully, [Your Signature] [Your Full Name] Account No.: [XXXXXXXXXXX] Mobile: [Your Registered Mobile Number] Enclosures: 1. Photocopy of SBI Passbook (first page) 2. Photocopy of PAN Card 3. Photocopy of Aadhaar Card / Voter ID
Sample 5

Current Account Statement for Business / Statutory Audit

Use this template for a current account statement request, typically needed for business audits, GST filing, company compliance, or financial reviews. The letter mentions the business or firm name alongside the account holder’s name.

[Your Full Name / Authorised Signatory Name] [Business/Firm Name] [Business Address] [City, State — PIN Code] Mobile: [Your Registered Mobile Number] Email: [Your Business Email Address] Date: [DD/MM/YYYY] To, The Branch Manager, State Bank of India, [Branch Name] Branch, [Branch Address], [City — PIN Code]. Subject: Request for Current Account Statement for Statutory Audit — Account No. [XXXXXXXXXXX] Respected Sir/Madam, I, [Your Full Name], am the [Proprietor / Partner / Director / Authorised Signatory] of [Business/Firm Name]. We maintain a current account (Account No. [XXXXXXXXXXX]) at your branch for our business banking requirements. Our statutory auditors have required us to furnish the complete current account statement for the financial year [YYYY-YY], i.e., from 01/04/[YYYY] to 31/03/[YYYY], for the purpose of the annual audit. I kindly request you to issue the account statement for the said period on SBI letterhead, duly stamped with the branch seal and signed by an authorised bank official. The statement should include all transactions with complete narration, debit and credit entries, cheque numbers where applicable, and the running balance. If the volume of transactions is large, a printed statement in booklet form would be appreciated. I have enclosed the necessary documents for verification. Kindly process this request at the earliest, as the audit is currently underway. I am available on the above contact details for any clarification. Yours faithfully, [Your Signature] [Your Full Name] Designation: [Proprietor / Partner / Director] Business Name: [Business/Firm Name] Account No.: [XXXXXXXXXXX] Mobile: [Your Registered Mobile Number] Enclosures: 1. Photocopy of SBI Passbook / Cheque Book (first page) 2. Photocopy of PAN Card (Business and/or Personal) 3. Photocopy of GST Registration Certificate 4. Authorisation Letter (if applicable)
Sample 6

Email Format — Bank Statement Request to SBI Branch

Use this format when you cannot visit the branch in person and wish to email your request. Note that not all branches accept email requests, and email-based requests may not result in stamped physical statements. Some branches may still require an in-person visit for verification. For security, use a partial account number in the email body.

To: [branch-email@sbi.co.in] Subject: Request for Account Statement — A/C No. XXXXXXX[Last 4 Digits] Respected Sir/Madam, I, [Your Full Name], am an account holder at your branch. My Customer Information File (CIF) number is [XXXXXXXXXXX] and my account ends with [Last 4 Digits of Account Number]. My registered mobile number is [Your Registered Mobile Number]. I request you to kindly issue my savings account statement for the period from [DD/MM/YYYY] to [DD/MM/YYYY]. I require this statement for [purpose: visa application / income tax filing / loan processing / personal records]. For verification purposes, I have attached scanned copies of the following documents: 1. SBI Passbook (first page showing account details) 2. Photo ID Proof (Aadhaar Card / PAN Card) I request that the statement be sent to my registered email address or kept ready for collection at the branch. Kindly confirm receipt of this email and the expected processing time. Thank you for your assistance. Yours faithfully, [Your Full Name] Account No.: XXXXXXX[Last 4 Digits] CIF No.: [XXXXXXXXXXX] Registered Mobile: [Your Registered Mobile Number] Registered Email: [Your Email Address]
Security Note: Never include your full account number in an email subject line. Use only the last 4 digits with the remaining digits masked (e.g., XXXXXXX1234). Also, never share your internet banking password, ATM PIN, or OTP in any email communication. Verify the branch email address from the official SBI website (sbi.co.in) before sending.

Step-by-Step: How to Submit Your Request Letter at an SBI Branch

Writing the letter is only half the job. The submission process at the branch has its own practical realities that can save you time if you know what to expect. Here is a complete walkthrough based on the standard experience at most SBI branches across India.

Step 1

Prepare Your Documents Before Visiting

Before leaving for the branch, ensure you have: (a) the signed request letter (printed or neatly handwritten on plain white A4 paper), (b) your SBI passbook, (c) an original photo ID proof (Aadhaar card, PAN card, passport, or voter ID), and (d) a photocopy of the ID proof to attach with the letter. Also note down your 11-digit account number and CIF number. If your account has been transferred between branches due to CBS (Core Banking Solution), the current home branch can still pull your full transaction history.

Step 2

Visit Your SBI Home Branch During Working Hours

SBI branches typically operate from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM, Monday to Friday, and 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM on Saturdays (some urban metro branches may have slightly different Saturday timings). While any CBS-linked SBI branch can technically process your request, visiting your home branch (the branch where your account is domiciled) is recommended for faster processing and a higher likelihood of receiving a stamped statement the same day.

Step 3

Submit at the Correct Counter

Look for the Single Window Operator counter or the Customer Service Desk — do not submit your letter at the cash counter, as they handle deposits and withdrawals, not document requests. If you are unsure, ask the security guard or the officer at the enquiry desk for guidance. At larger branches, there may be a token system; collect your token and wait for your number.

Step 4

Identity Verification

The branch officer will verify your identity by matching your face with your ID proof and confirming your signature against the one registered in the CBS system. They may also ask you to confirm your registered mobile number or date of birth for additional verification. Carry your passbook — the officer may refer to it for quick account verification.

Step 5

Collect Your Acknowledgment

Always ask for a written acknowledgment or token number after submitting your letter. This serves as proof that you submitted the request and helps you follow up if there are any delays. Some branches may simply stamp a “Received” copy of your letter — carry two copies of the letter for this purpose.

Step 6

Processing & Collection

For simple requests covering the last 3 to 6 months, many branches can issue the statement on the same day, often within 30 minutes to a few hours. For longer periods, historical records, or if the branch is particularly busy, expect 1 to 3 working days. During peak periods like March (financial year-end) and September (mid-year audit season), processing may take slightly longer. When collecting, carry your ID proof and the acknowledgment slip.

Step 7

Verify the Statement Before Leaving

Before leaving the branch, quickly verify that the statement covers the correct date range, includes all pages (if multi-page), has the branch’s round seal and an authorised officer’s signature on each page (especially important for visa and legal purposes), and shows the correct account holder name and account number. It is much easier to get corrections done on the spot than to return later.

What If the Branch Delays or Refuses? Under RBI’s customer service guidelines, banks are required to provide account statements to customers upon request. If you face unreasonable delays (beyond 7 working days), you can: (1) Escalate to the Branch Manager directly, (2) Contact SBI’s customer care (available on sbi.co.in), (3) File a complaint through the RBI’s Banking Ombudsman portal. Keep your acknowledgment copy as evidence of your original request.

Alternative Ways to Get Your SBI Bank Statement Without a Letter

While a formal letter remains the most reliable method for obtaining stamped, officially signed statements, SBI offers several digital and alternative channels that may suffice depending on your purpose. Here is a comprehensive comparison of all available methods.

SBI YONO App

Best for: Personal records, quick reference, informal use

YONO (“You Only Need One”) is SBI’s integrated banking app. To download a statement:

  1. Log in to the YONO app using your credentials.
  2. Navigate to “Accounts” and select your account.
  3. Tap on “View Statement” or “Account Statement.”
  4. Select the date range (typically up to 12 months of history).
  5. Download the statement in PDF format.
Limitation: YONO-generated PDFs are not stamped or signed. They may not be accepted by embassies, courts, or auditors requiring wet-stamped originals.

SBI Online (Internet Banking)

Best for: Detailed transaction review, tax filing preparation

SBI’s internet banking portal allows you to download comprehensive statements:

  1. Visit onlinesbi.sbi and log in with your credentials.
  2. Go to “Account Statement” under the Accounts tab.
  3. Select your account, choose the date range.
  4. Pick the format: PDF, Excel, or on-screen view.
  5. Download and save.
Limitation: Same as YONO — digital statements are not officially stamped. The date range available may be limited; for very old records, a branch request is necessary.

Passbook Printing at Branch

Best for: Regular transaction tracking, quick updates

Visit any SBI branch with your passbook and use the passbook printing kiosk or request printing at the counter. The passbook is updated with the latest transactions automatically via CBS. However, a passbook is a different document from an account statement — it is a running record maintained in a booklet, not a formal statement on letterhead.

Limitation: Passbook entries are not accepted as formal bank statements for visa, legal, or audit purposes. They lack the bank’s letterhead, seal, and authorised signature.

SBI Customer Care & Missed Call Banking

Best for: Quick balance checks, mini-statements

SBI offers a missed call service for balance enquiry and mini-statements (last 5 transactions). You can also call SBI’s customer care numbers (available on sbi.co.in) to request a statement be sent to your registered email. These channels are useful for quick checks but cannot replace a formal statement request.

Limitation: Missed call banking provides only mini-statements (last 5 transactions). Full statements for specific date ranges cannot be obtained through phone banking alone.

Email Request to Branch

Best for: When you cannot visit the branch in person

Some SBI branches accept statement requests via email. Refer to Sample Letter 6 (Email Format) above for the correct format. Verify the branch’s official email address from the SBI website before sending. Be prepared for the branch to require an in-person visit for identity verification, especially for stamped statements.

Limitation: Not all branches accept email requests. The branch may only issue a digital (unsigned) statement via email. For stamped originals, an in-person visit is almost always required.

Quick Comparison: SBI Statement Methods

Method Speed Stamped/Signed Visa/Legal Use Cost
Branch Letter 1-3 days Yes Yes Free to ~₹100
YONO App Instant No No Free
Internet Banking Instant No No Free
Passbook Instant No No Free
Email Request 1-5 days Varies Varies Free

SBI Bank Statement Charges, Timelines, and Policies

Understanding the fee structure and processing timelines helps you plan your request appropriately, especially when working against a deadline for visa appointments, tax filings, or loan closures.

Fees & Charges

SBI generally provides recent account statements (covering the last 6 months) free of charge. However, fees may apply in the following situations:

  • Statements covering a period beyond 6 months may attract a nominal charge of ₹50 to ₹100 at some branches.
  • Additional copies of previously issued statements may be charged.
  • Statements for closed accounts may have a separate processing fee.
  • Digital statements downloaded from YONO or internet banking are typically free.

Note: Fees vary by branch and are subject to periodic revision by SBI. Confirm the applicable charges at your branch before submitting the request.

Processing Timelines

  • Simple requests (last 3-6 months): Same day to 1 working day at most branches.
  • Extended periods (6-12 months): 1 to 2 working days.
  • Historical records (beyond 1 year): 2 to 3 working days; may take longer for pre-CBS era records.
  • Closed account statements: 3 to 7 working days, depending on when the account was closed.
  • Peak period surcharge: During March (financial year-end) and September (mid-year audit season), expect slightly longer processing times across all categories.

Note: These timelines are indicative. Actual processing depends on branch workload, staffing, and system availability.

Historical Availability

Since SBI operates on Core Banking Solution (CBS), account transaction data is retained digitally for several years. Most branches can generate statements going back 5 to 10 years or more for CBS-linked accounts. For accounts that predate CBS migration (typically before 2008-2010 for smaller branches), records may exist only in physical ledger form and may require a special request to the branch.

Statement Formats Available

  • Physical stamped statement: Printed on SBI letterhead with branch seal and authorised signatory — required for visa, legal, and audit purposes.
  • Digital PDF: Available via YONO, internet banking, or email from branch — suitable for personal records and informal use.
  • Passbook entry: Updated at the branch or passbook printing kiosk — a running record, not a formal statement.

Special Cases

  • Joint accounts: Either joint holder can request a statement individually. However, some branches may ask for consent from all holders for statements covering sensitive periods.
  • Deceased account holder: The legal heir or nominee can request statements by visiting the branch with the death certificate, succession certificate or legal heir certificate, and their own ID proof. This is a sensitive process — visit the branch for specific guidance.
  • NRI accounts: NRI account statement requests may require additional documentation depending on the account type (NRE, NRO, or FCNR). Contact your branch or SBI’s NRI services for specific requirements.

Common Mistakes to Avoid in Your SBI Statement Request Letter

Even a small error in your request letter can lead to delays, rejection, or receiving the wrong statement. Based on the most frequent issues encountered at SBI branches, here are the mistakes you should actively avoid.

Incorrect Account Number

SBI account numbers are 11 digits long. A single transposed digit means the branch will either pull the wrong account’s data or be unable to locate your account at all. Always double-check your account number against your passbook or cheque book before writing the letter.

Wrong Designation for the Addressee

Address the letter to “The Branch Manager” — not “The Bank Manager,” “The Manager,” or “Dear SBI.” Using the wrong designation signals unfamiliarity with formal correspondence and, while not a grounds for rejection, does not create a good impression.

Missing Date Range

Not specifying the exact date range (“from [date] to [date]”) forces the branch to guess what period you need, which may result in receiving a statement for a default period that does not match your requirement. Always specify the precise start and end dates.

Not Mentioning the Purpose

The purpose determines the format of the statement the branch issues. If you need a stamped statement on letterhead for a visa application but do not mention this, the branch might issue a simple printout without the seal and signature. Always state why you need the statement.

Signature Mismatch

Sign the letter with the same signature registered with SBI. If your signature has changed over time and does not match SBI’s records, the branch will flag the discrepancy and may refuse to process the request until verification is complete. If your signature has changed, update it with the branch first.

Forgetting ID Proof

Even if your letter is perfect, arriving at the branch without a valid photo ID proof means the officer cannot verify your identity and will not process the request. Always carry an original ID proof (Aadhaar, PAN card, passport, or voter ID) along with a photocopy.

Sending Full Account Number via Email

Including your complete 11-digit account number in an email subject line or body is a security risk. If you must email a request, mask the first 7 digits and include only the last 4 digits (e.g., XXXXXXX1234). Use your CIF number as an alternative identifier.

Assuming Digital Statements Are Universally Accepted

PDFs downloaded from YONO or internet banking are convenient but are not accepted everywhere. Embassies, courts, auditors, and many institutional lenders require the original physical statement with the branch’s wet stamp. Confirm the requirement with the requesting party before deciding between digital and physical formats.

Not Keeping a Copy of the Submitted Letter

Always carry two copies of the letter — one for submission and one for your records. Ask the receiving officer to stamp or sign your copy as proof of submission. This copy is essential if you need to follow up or escalate a delayed request.

Frequently Asked Questions: SBI Bank Statement Request

Address the letter to The Branch Manager of your SBI home branch. Include your full name, 11-digit account number, account type, the specific date range you need, and the purpose of the request. Sign with your registered signature, attach photocopies of your ID proof and passbook first page, and submit at the customer service desk. Use “Yours faithfully” as the closing. Refer to our 6 ready-to-use sample letters above for complete, copy-paste-ready templates for different scenarios.

SBI generally provides recent account statements (up to 6 months) free of charge. However, some branches may charge a nominal fee of ₹50 to ₹100 for physical stamped statements, statements covering a longer historical period (beyond 6 months), or additional copies. Fees vary by branch and are subject to change. Digital statements downloaded from YONO or SBI Online are typically free. It is advisable to confirm the charges at your specific branch.

Simple requests for recent periods (up to 6 months) are often processed the same day or within 1 working day. Requests for longer periods (6-12 months) typically take 1-2 working days. Historical records (beyond 1 year) may take 2-3 working days. During peak periods like March (financial year-end) and September (mid-year audit season), processing may take slightly longer. Always collect the acknowledgment or token number for follow-up.

Yes, since SBI uses Core Banking Solution (CBS), any CBS-linked branch across India can access your account history and generate a statement. However, visiting your home branch (where your account is domiciled) is recommended for faster processing and a higher likelihood of receiving a stamped statement on the branch’s own letterhead. If you visit a non-home branch, the processing may take slightly longer.

Write a formal request letter (use our visa-specific sample letter) to your SBI home branch specifying that the statement is required for a visa application. Mention the embassy or consulate name, and explicitly request the statement on SBI letterhead with the branch’s round seal (wet stamp) and authorised signatory. Most embassies require the last 6 months of statements showing all transactions, opening balance, and closing balance. Submit the letter in person with your passport, ID proof, and passbook.

Some SBI branches accept statement requests via email. Send a formal email (refer to our email format sample) to your branch’s official email address with a scanned copy of your ID proof attached. For security, use only a partial account number and mention your CIF number instead. Note that email requests have limitations — branches may still require an in-person visit for stamped physical statements. Verify the branch email from the official SBI website.

A passbook is a physical booklet issued by SBI where transactions are printed when you visit a branch or use a printing kiosk. It is a running record maintained in your possession. A bank statement is a separate document — either physical (printed on bank letterhead with seal and signature) or digital (PDF) — that provides a formal record of all transactions for a specific period. Stamped physical statements carry official weight and are accepted by embassies, courts, and auditors, whereas passbook entries generally do not carry the same formal validity for these purposes.

Open the YONO app and log in with your credentials. Navigate to “Accounts” and select the relevant account. Tap on “View Statement” or “Account Statement.” Choose your date range (typically up to 12 months) and select PDF format. The statement will be downloaded to your device. For detailed steps, see our alternatives section. Remember: YONO-generated statements are not stamped or signed and may not be accepted for visa, legal, or audit purposes.

Yes, you can authorise another person to collect your bank statement by writing a separate authorisation letter. The authorised person must carry: (1) the authorisation letter signed by you with your registered signature, (2) a photocopy of your ID proof, (3) their own original ID proof for verification, and (4) the acknowledgment slip from your original request. The branch may call your registered mobile number to verify the authorisation before handing over the statement.

Through CBS (Core Banking Solution), SBI can typically generate statements going back several years (often 5-10 years or more). Digital statements via YONO or internet banking usually cover the last 1-2 years. For very old records (pre-CBS era or beyond the digital retention period), a written request at the branch is necessary and may take additional processing time. There may be nominal charges for very historical statements. The exact period available depends on when your branch was migrated to CBS.

It is not strictly necessary under CBS — any SBI branch can access your account. However, visiting your home branch is recommended because: (1) processing is usually faster since your account is domiciled there, (2) the branch staff can verify your identity more easily from existing records, and (3) stamped statements on the branch’s letterhead are more readily issued. For simple digital statements, you can skip the branch visit entirely and use YONO or internet banking.

Carry the following documents to the branch: (1) Your signed request letter, (2) SBI passbook, (3) A valid original photo ID proof (Aadhaar card, PAN card, voter ID, or passport), (4) A photocopy of the ID proof to attach with the application, and (5) any supporting documents related to the purpose (e.g., embassy requirement letter for visa, CA’s request letter for audit). Also note down your 11-digit account number and CIF number before visiting.

Sources & References

  • State Bank of India (SBI) — Official website: sbi.co.in
  • SBI Online Banking — Internet banking portal: onlinesbi.sbi
  • Reserve Bank of India (RBI) — Customer service guidelines and Banking Ombudsman scheme
  • Banking Regulation Act, 1949 — Provisions regarding customer rights to account information
  • Information Technology Act, 2000 — Recognition of electronic records and digital statements

The information in this article is compiled from publicly available SBI and RBI resources. Specific procedures, fees, and timelines may vary by branch. For the most current information, please visit your SBI branch or contact SBI’s customer care.

About the Author

BankingFormats.in Editorial Team

Our editorial team comprises professionals with extensive experience in Indian banking procedures, formal business correspondence, and financial documentation. We create practical, accurate guides to help SBI customers navigate banking processes efficiently. All content is reviewed for accuracy against current SBI and RBI guidelines.