Bank Statement: Uses, Benefits, and How to Request It from Your Bank

The term bank statement is widely recognized by many people. This official financial document is closely related to the banking system and can only be issued by a bank.

A bank statement has many important uses for personal and business needs. In some cases, companies or embassies may require it as a supporting document, such as for visa applications or financial verification.

What Is a Bank Statement?

The term rekening koran originates from the Dutch word courant, which refers to a summary of all financial transactions in a bank account, whether for individuals or businesses.

This document is issued in printed form and contains detailed records of debit and credit transactions, including incoming and outgoing funds.

Each bank applies different systems and policies for issuing bank statements. Some banks provide them routinely, while others require customers to submit a formal request. In certain cases, approval from a bank officer is required, which may take additional time.

Uses of a Bank Statement

A bank statement can only be requested by the account holder, as it is linked to a specific account number. Printing the statement is not allowed if requested by an unauthorized party.

Here are some of the main uses of a bank statement:

1. Visa Application

When applying for a visa to travel abroad, a bank statement is often a mandatory requirement. It serves as proof that you have sufficient funds to support yourself during your stay.

Embassies typically require several financial documents to assess your financial stability, such as:

• Income tax statements
• Salary slips
• Transaction history
• Property tax documents
• Bank transaction records

2. Reviewing Transaction History

A bank statement functions similarly to a passbook but provides more detailed transaction records for a specific period.

It includes:

• Opening and closing balances
• Interest earned
• Debit and credit flows
• Administrative fees

Unlike a regular passbook, a bank statement also includes transaction descriptions and notes, offering more comprehensive details.

3. Legal Evidence

A bank statement can serve as valid legal evidence in case of disputes involving financial transactions.

For example, if you have transferred money to an online seller but the seller claims that no payment was received, your bank statement can be used as official proof of the transaction.

4. Loan Applications

When applying for loans such as:

• Home loans (mortgages)
• Vehicle loans
• Unsecured personal loans

banks require a detailed record of your financial transaction history. A bank statement helps demonstrate healthy cash flow and financial credibility, especially if you are self-employed or not a salaried employee.

5. Auction Participation

If you plan to participate in an auction—whether organized by private institutions or government bodies—you may be required to submit a bank statement as proof of available funds.

This document ensures that participants have sufficient balance to complete the transaction if they win the auction.

6. Company Financial Audits

For businesses, bank statements are essential for financial auditing purposes. They help record and verify cash inflows and outflows accurately.

If irregular transactions are detected, they can be addressed immediately, helping to reduce financial risks and maintain transparency.

How to Request a Bank Statement from the Bank

Printing a bank statement usually takes only a few minutes, but customers must visit the bank branch in person. In most cases, the request must be approved by a bank officer. Below are the requirements to request a bank statement:

1. Original Passbook

You must bring your original bank passbook. Inform the customer service officer that you want to request a bank statement and submit the passbook for verification.

2. Valid Identification (ID Card)

The bank will request a valid ID card to verify your identity and match it with the account holder’s details. If you are unable to present your ID card, you may use alternative identification documents, such as:

• Passport
• Driver’s license

3. Debit Card

Another required document is your debit card, which serves as proof of account ownership.

If you do not bring your debit card, the bank may refuse to process your request.

Bank Statement Printing Fees

Printing a bank statement involves a service fee, which varies depending on the bank’s policy. Here are examples of printing fees at several banks:

• BCA: IDR 2,500 per page
• BNI: IDR 2,500 – IDR 3,000 per page
• Permata Bank: IDR 10,000 per page
• BRI: IDR 25,000 per page (for statements covering more than 12 months)

A bank statement is an essential financial document that provides a complete and detailed record of your transactions. It plays a crucial role in visa applications, loan approvals, legal matters, auctions, and business audits.

By understanding its functions and the correct procedure to request it, you can easily access your transaction history whenever needed.

Download Transfez App

Transfez App can help you transfer money abroad more quickly and efficiently. Jack Finance can also help your business in making transactions abroad. For those of you who want to send money to relatives who are abroad because they are studying, working, or traveling, Transfez will be ready to help. This app is available on Android as well as iOS.