How to change address in bank account after shifting house?

Updating your bank account address after moving is crucial to ensuring you receive all important correspondence and documentation from your bank. While not a necessary step, failure to update your address promptly can result in important paperwork being sent to your old address, causing potential issues. Here are four methods you can use to change your address with your bank after shifting houses.

See also: How to link your PAN Card to your Axis Bank account?

 

Why it’s essential to update your bank account address

When you move to a new home, your registered address with the bank needs to be updated. Please update this to avoid creating multiple operational, financial, and regulatory challenges.

1. Operational challenges: Many banks send physical copies of financial statements, tax-related documents, and important notices to the registered address. If these reach your old residence, you may face delays or lose access to time-sensitive information.

2. Financial risks: If documents such as debit/credit cards or cheque books are delivered to the wrong address, there is a significant risk of financial fraud. Unaddressed issues can also disrupt your ability to meet payment deadlines or dispute erroneous charges.

3. Regulatory non-compliance: Banks are legally mandated to maintain accurate customer records. Please update your address to avoid compliance issues, especially during Know Your Customer (KYC) verification processes.

 

Methods to change your bank address

Address changes can be made through multiple channels, each catering to a specific need. Here’s an in-depth look at these methods:

 

1. Visiting the bank branch (offline method)

Visiting the branch remains one of the most reliable options, especially for those who are less comfortable with online platforms. When you visit, bring the necessary documents, including a completed address change form and a valid proof of your new address. Bank personnel will verify your documents and process the request. While it may take longer than online methods, it is a secure and foolproof way to update your details.

 

2. By post or courier (offline method)

For individuals who cannot visit the branch, sending documents via post is a viable alternative. Start by downloading the address change form from your bank’s official website. Fill it out carefully, sign it, and attach self-attested copies of your new address proof. Ensure you send these to the bank’s designated address for such requests.

 

3. Using net banking (online method)

Internet banking provides the fastest way to update your address without needing to visit the branch. Log in to your bank’s official net banking portal and navigate to the profile or contact details section. Banks often have a user-friendly interface where you can upload scanned copies of the required address proof. Follow the instructions to complete the process.

 

4. Mobile app (online method)

Banks with advanced mobile apps allow you to make changes through their digital platforms. Open the app, access the ‘Profile’ or ‘Settings’ section, and look for an option to update the address. You can submit your new address along with the necessary documents. The convenience of mobile apps ensures you can handle updates on the go.

 

Documents required for address update

The documents needed may vary slightly depending on your bank’s requirements, but generally, you’ll need scanned copies of documents issued by the central or state governments as the proof of your new address. You can use one or more of the following depending on your bank’s requirements:

Aadhaar Card: Widely accepted as a universal ID.

Utility Bills: Recent electricity, water, or gas bills.

Driving License: Must include your updated address.

Passport: An internationally accepted ID for address verification.

Rental Agreement: Particularly useful for tenants.

Voter ID Card: A trusted government-issued ID.

Property Tax Receipt: Ideal for homeowners.

 

Impact on linked financial services

Updating your bank account address after relocating is crucial, as an outdated address can significantly impact various financial services linked to your account. Here’s an in-depth look at how different services are affected:

1. Credit cards

• Statements and billing: Credit card issuers send monthly statements detailing your transactions and payment due dates. If these are sent to an old address, you may miss payments, leading to late fees and potential negative marks on your credit report.

• Card deliveries: Renewed or replacement cards are mailed to the registered address. An incorrect address can result in cards being delivered to the wrong location, posing security risks and delaying your access to funds.

 

2. Loan accounts

• Communication: Lenders send important information regarding loan terms, interest rate changes, and payment schedules to your registered address. Missing such communications can lead to misunderstandings or missed payments, affecting your creditworthiness.

• Legal notices: In cases of default or significant changes to loan agreements, legal notices are dispatched to the registered address. Please receive these to avoid legal complications and financial penalties.

 

3. Investment accounts

• Account statements: Investment firms provide periodic statements outlining your portfolio performance. An outdated address can cause delays in receiving these, hindering your ability to make informed investment decisions.

• Dividend and interest payments: Physical cheques for dividends or interest are sent to the registered address. Incorrect addresses can lead to non-receipt of these funds, affecting your income stream.

 

4. Insurance policies

• Policy documents: Insurance companies send policy documents, renewal notices, and premium reminders to your registered address. An outdated address can result in missed renewals, leading to policy lapses and loss of coverage.

• Claim correspondence: In the event of a claim, all correspondence, including settlement details, is sent to the registered address. Please receive this information to ensure claim processing and settlement.

 

5. Tax-related documents

• Form 16 and other tax documents: Employers and financial institutions send tax-related documents to your registered address. An outdated address can lead to delays in filing tax returns and potential penalties.

• Refund cheques: If you are eligible for a tax refund and have opted for a physical cheque, it will be sent to your registered address. An incorrect address can result in a non-receipt of your refund.

 

6. Utility services linked to auto-debit

• Billing information: Utilities set up for auto-debit from your bank account send billing information and updates to your registered address. An outdated address can result in missed notifications about rate changes or service modifications.

• Service disruptions: Important maintenance or service disruption notices are sent to your registered address. Please receive these to ensure you are prepared for outages or service changes.

 

Address change procedure of different banks

Here’s how you can get your address changed in different banks:

State Bank of India (SBI)

Online

SBI offers the facility to change the address your account is registered with via net banking.

• Go to onlinesbi.com and login to your account. Go to ‘My Profile’ -> ‘Personal Details.’
• Scroll to reach the Contact Details section and click on ‘Edit’ under Address details.
• Enter your new address and select the type of address proof you would be uploading.
• Upload a scanned copy or image of your address proof and click ‘Submit.’
• After the request is submitted, it will be processed and a notification of the update will be sent to your mobile number. The change will be reflected on the website soon after.

If you have the YONO app installed on your phone, you can change your address by simply  going to the profile section, editing the address and uploading an address proof.

You can also get your address changed over email using the following steps:

• Get a printout of the Account Modification form and fill it with your account details and new address.
• Self-attest a copy of your valid KYC document and scan both the documents.
• Email the scanned copies on SBI and send to customercare@sbi.co.in and
  contactcentre@sbi.co.in from your registered email ID.

Offline

For the offline process, you would be required to visit your home branch or the nearest branch with a duly filled address change form (downloaded from the website and printed or obtained from the branch) and the original and a self-attested copy of your KYC address proof. These need to be submitted at the branch, that will then verify the documents and process your request within 3 – 5 working days.

HDFC Bank

Here’s how you can change your address registered with HDFC Bank online:

• Access the hdfcbank.com or the HDFC MobileBanking app by logging in with your credentials and open the ‘Profile’ or ‘Settings’ section.
• Locate the ‘Update Profile’ button and enter the OTP received on your registered mobile number.
• Enter the new address and support it by uploading a scanned copy of a relevant address proof.
• Review your details and click on ‘Submit.’ The change will reflect on your account once processed by the bank.

ICICI Bank

• Access icicibank.com and login using your user ID and password. From the Service Requests section, select ‘More’ from the drop-down menu.
• Choose the option for a change of communication address request. Submit the request and enter your new address details.
• Input the one-time password (OTP) sent to your registered phone number for verification.
• If additional verification is required, the bank may request your address proof. Within 1-2 days, your updated address will be reflected in the bank’s records.

Similarly, you can find the option for address change on the online portals of all other banks as well.

 

Axis Bank

Online via Internet Banking:

• Log in to Axis Bank Internet Banking.
• Navigate to ‘Services’ > ‘Insta Services’ > ‘Update Contact Details.’
• Select ‘Update Address’ and enter your new address.
• Upload a scanned copy of your address proof.
• Submit the request; the bank will process it and notify you upon completion.

Using the Axis Mobile App:

• Open the Axis Mobile app and log in.
• Go to ‘Menu’ > ‘Services & Support’ > ‘Insta Services’ > ‘Update Contact.’
• Select ‘Update Communication Address’ or ‘Update Permanent Address.’
• Agree to the terms and conditions.
• Upload the necessary address proof documents.
• Submit the request; the bank will process it and notify you upon completion.

Offline:

• Visit the nearest Axis Bank branch with the proof of address (original and photocopy).
• Fill out the Customer Request Form for address change.
• Submit the form along with the address proof to the branch officials.
• The bank will verify the documents and process your request.

Punjab National Bank (PNB)

Offline:

• Write an application letter addressing the branch manager of your PNB home branch.
  • Include your bank account number, name, old address, and new address.
• Attach a self-attested copy of your new address proof.
• Visit your PNB home branch and submit the application letter along with the address proof to the bank officials.
• The bank will verify the documents and process your request.

 

Note: While some banks offer online methods to update your address, others may require you to visit the branch. You should check with your specific bank for their procedures and any additional requirements.

Housing.com POV

Ensuring that your bank account reflects your current address is fundamental to personal financial management. An outdated address can lead to missed communications, potential security risks, and non-compliance with regulatory requirements. By promptly updating your address through the appropriate channels—online platforms, mobile applications, or in-person visits—you safeguard your financial interests and maintain seamless interactions with your bank. This proactive approach prevents potential complications and reinforces your commitment to responsible banking practices.

FAQs

Why do I need to update my address with my bank after moving?

Updating your address with your bank ensures that you receive important correspondence, statements, and other documents at your current residence. It helps in maintaining accurate records and prevents any potential issues with banking transactions.

What documents do I need to provide to change my address with my bank?

The documents required may vary depending on the bank's policies, but typically you'll need to provide proof of your new address, such as a utility bill, rental agreement, or government-issued ID with the updated address.

Can I update my bank account address online?

Many banks offer online address change services through their Internet banking portals. However, some banks may require you to visit a branch in person to complete the process.

How long does it take for my address to be updated after submitting the request?

The time taken to update your address can vary depending on the bank's internal processes. In many cases, the address is updated within a few days after the request is submitted and verified.

Will I receive confirmation once my address has been updated?

Yes, most banks provide confirmation once your address has been successfully updated. You may receive a confirmation message through email, SMS, or regular mail, or see the updated address on your account statements or online banking portal.

Is there a fee for changing my address with my bank?

Generally, banks do not charge a fee for updating your address. However, it's always a good idea to check with your bank to confirm if any charges apply.

What should I do if I've recently moved but haven't updated my address with my bank yet?

It's important to update your address with your bank as soon as possible to ensure uninterrupted communication and to avoid any potential issues with your account. Visit your bank branch or check their online banking portal for instructions on how to update your address.

Got any questions or point of view on our article? We would love to hear from you. Write to our Editor-in-Chief Jhumur Ghosh at jhumur.ghosh1@housing.com